Prevention Tips

IF your job requires you to be on your feet all day, here are some simple tips that can help you avoid serious leg problems.

Keep Moving - Rather than standing or sitting at work, try to walk around as often as possible. Stimulate the muscles in your legs through brisk walking to promote better circulation.

Wear Compression Stockings every day - Graduated compression stockings can actually increase your energy level, reduce swelling and prevent further vein damage. By increasing pressure on the outside of your lower leg, compression stockings actually help your veins "pump" blood up towards your heart and keep vein walls from being damaged.

Avoid crossing your legs -  When you sit, try to keep your legs uncrossed. Crossing your legs can pinch off essential flow of blood in your legs.

Elevate your feet -  Whenever you have the chance to sit down, put your feet up. By elevating your feet, you help drain the fluids from your lower legs. If you have the opportunity to lie down, elevate your feet above your breastbone at a 45° angle.

Exercise while you work - When you have a moment, try to flex your leg and calf muscles. Here's a simple exercise you can do: Support yourself with your hands on a table, chair or wall. Then stand on tip-toe and lower yourself down again. Repeat up to 20 times.

Wear comfortable shoes -  Flat or low-heeled shoes can help prevent additional leg and foot discomfort.