In this article, we look at a topic that is often underestimated, namely the health of our legs and veins. Many people don't think about the strain our legs go through on a daily basis or how important a healthy venous system is. But precisely because they play such a central role in our everyday lives, it is important to pay special attention to them.
Imagine walking, standing or sitting – all of these everyday activities put a strain on your legs. The veins in your legs are doing the hard work of pumping blood back to the heart against the force of gravity. Healthy vein function is therefore crucial for staying active and mobile. But our veins don’t always play ball; problems such as leg thrombosis and varicose veins can not only be painful but also pose serious health risks.
In this article, we will look at the anatomy of the legs and veins to understand how they work. We will also look at common problems such as leg thrombosis and varicose veins and explain why support and compression stockings play an important role in the prevention and treatment of these conditions. Whether you are a frequent traveller, have an office job or just want to support your legs in everyday life, the right information can make a big difference.
The anatomy of legs and veins
Structure and function of legs
Your legs are complex structures made up of bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments and blood vessels. They enable movement and stability. The main structure is the skeleton, which consists of the thigh bone (femur), the shin bone (tibia), the kneecap (patella) and other small bones. The muscles in your legs are responsible for movement and are controlled by nerves that receive signals from the brain.
How do veins work?
Veins are blood vessels that transport blood back to the heart. In contrast to arteries, which carry blood away from the heart, veins have a much thinner wall as the blood pressure in them is lower. In the legs, venous valves, which function like small one-way gates, help to return blood to the heart efficiently. If these valves don’t work properly, blood builds up and vein problems can develop.
Common leg and vein problems
Our legs are exposed to high levels of stress every day, which can lead to various health problems. Two of the most common complaints are leg thrombosis and varicose veins. These can be both painful and dangerous, which is why a basic understanding of these conditions is important.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
What is a leg thrombosis?
Leg thrombosis, often referred to as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins in your leg. This can obstruct blood flow and lead to swelling, pain and a bluish discolouration of the affected area. If such a clot is dislodged and travels to the lungs, it can cause a life-threatening pulmonary embolism. If it travels to the heart, a heart attack occurs and if the clot travels to the brain, a stroke.
Causes and risk factors for leg thrombosis
Risk factors for leg thrombosis include long periods of inactivity (such as long flights or car journeys), surgery, certain medical conditions, certain medications (such as the contraceptive pill), smoking, obesity and age. Genetic factors can also play a role. It is therefore important to be aware of long periods of inactivity and to take regular breaks to move your legs.
Varicose veins
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are dilated, swollen veins that often appear blue or dark purple in colour. They develop when the venous valves no longer function properly, which leads to a backflow of blood. Varicose veins are not only a cosmetic problem, but can also cause discomfort such as pain, heaviness and swelling.
Causes and prevention of varicose veins
Varicose veins often develop due to genetic predisposition, obesity, pregnancy, prolonged standing or sitting and age. Preventative measures include maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise to promote blood circulation and wearing compression stockings, especially if you are in a high-risk group or already have signs of vein problems.
The role of support and compression stockings
The use of support and compression stockings is an effective method of preventing and supporting the treatment of vein problems. But what exactly are they and how do they differ?
The difference between support and compression stockings
- Support stockings provide light compression to reduce fatigue and swelling in the legs. They are ideal for people, who have to stand or sit for long periods.
- Compression stockings, on the other hand, provide greater compression and are medically designed to improve venous blood flow and prevent the formation of blood clots. They are available in different strengths and are best worn according to a doctor’s recommendation.
How compression stockings work
Compression stockings exert gradual pressure on the legs, with the strongest pressure at the ankle and decreasing towards the top. This promotes blood circulation, supports the venous valves in their work and helps to pump the blood back to the heart efficiently. They are an important part of therapy for vein problems and can be used both preventatively and to alleviate existing symptoms.
Compression stockings in everyday life
Compression stockings are not only useful for people with existing vein problems. They can also be a preventative measure for anyone, who wants to do something good for their legs. Here you can find out why they should also play a role in everyday life.
Advantages of compression stockings and when to wear them
Compression stockings help to promote blood circulation and reduce fatigue and swelling in the legs. This is particularly useful for people who have to sit or stand for long periods – such as office workers, teachers, medical staff, hairdressers or shop assistants. Wearing these stockings can reduce the risk of varicose veins and leg thrombosis. They are also helpful for pregnant women who often suffer from swollen legs and feet.
The importance of compression stockings when travelling
Long flights or car journeys increase the risk of leg thrombosis, often known as “economy class syndrome“. Compression stockings play an important role in preventing this.
Why are compression stockings particularly important when travelling long distances?
When travelling long distances, movement is often restricted, which can slow down the blood flow in the legs. This can lead to the formation of blood clots. Compression stockings help to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of swelling and pain. They are a simple but effective way to protect your vein health whilst travelling.
Tips for the selection and care of compression stockings
Choosing the right compression socks and caring for them is crucial to maximise the benefits. Here are some tips to guide you.
Buying advice
- Size and fit: Make sure the stockings fit well. Stockings that are too tight can be uncomfortable and further restrict blood flow, while stockings that are too loose will not provide the necessary support.
- Compression level: There are different levels of compression. Light compression may be sufficient for preventive purposes, while heavier compression is often used on a doctor’s recommendation.
- Material: Look for breathable materials, which wick away moisture to ensure comfort.
Care instructions
- Washing: Compression stockings should be washed regularly to avoid material fatigue and hygiene problems. Follow the care instructions to maintain elasticity and effectiveness.
- Replacement: Replace your stockings regularly as they can lose tension over time.
Skincare
Wearing compression stockings dries out the skin. You should therefore make sure you moisturise your skin sufficiently, especially in the evening when the stockings are not being worn.
Further relief options for the legs: Gel insoles and orthopaedic insoles
In addition to compression socks, there are other methods to relieve pressure on your legs and feet, especially if you spend a lot of time on your feet. Gel insoles and orthopaedic insoles are two such solutions, which can provide additional comfort and support.
Gel insoles to relieve pressure on the feet
Gel insoles are soft, cushion-like insoles that are inserted into shoes. They are made from a gel-like material that provides shock absorption and distributes the pressure on your feet. This can be particularly helpful if you have to stand or walk for long periods, as it reduces the strain on your feet and thus indirectly reduces the strain on your legs and veins.
Orthopaedic insoles for the feet
Orthopaedic insoles are customised insoles that are specially adapted to the individual shape of the foot. They support the natural foot structure, improve posture and can help to address specific foot problems such as flat feet, severe arches or heel spurs. By correctly aligning your feet, orthopaedic insoles can also reduce the strain on your legs and veins, contributing to better overall posture.
The lifespan of shoes
The lifespan of a pair of shoes can vary depending on the quality of the shoes, the frequency of use and the type of activities they are used for. In general, high-quality shoes that are well cared for can last for several years. However, with regular use, it is advisable to check shoes annually and replace them if necessary, especially if the soles are worn out or the shoe has lost its shape. This is important as worn shoes no longer provide the necessary support and can therefore contribute to foot and leg complaints.
By combining suitable shoes with gel insoles or orthopaedic insoles, you can effectively support your leg and vein health and prevent complaints.
Conclusion
The health of our legs and veins is of great importance as they play a central role in our everyday lives. This article has taken a look at the anatomy of the legs and veins, highlighted common conditions such as leg thrombosis and varicose veins and emphasised the importance of support and compression stockings both in everyday life and when travelling.
We also examined the role of gel insoles and orthopaedic insoles, which provide additional comfort and support for the feet and can therefore indirectly reduce the strain on the legs and veins. We also discussed the importance of regularly checking and, if necessary, replacing shoes to ensure optimum support and relief.
To summarise, the combination of appropriate footwear, the use of compression stockings and other supportive insoles is an effective strategy to promote leg and vein health and prevent discomfort. By giving our legs the attention and care they need, we can not only improve our mobility, but also increase our general well-being.
Frequently asked questions
This depends on your individual needs. They can be worn daily if you have existing vein problems or if advised by a doctor. They can also be worn occasionally as a preventative measure when sitting or standing for long periods or when travelling.
In most cases, compression stockings are safe. However, make sure they fit properly, as stockings that are too tight can cause problems such as skin irritation or even a deterioration in blood circulation. They should also be removed if you lie down for longer than 30 minutes.
No, people of all ages can benefit from compression stockings, especially those who are prone to vein problems or who have to sit or stand for long periods.
Yes, gel insoles are designed to be used in different types of shoes, including sports shoes, work shoes and even dressier shoe styles. However, it is important to choose the right size and shape of insoles to ensure the best possible comfort and support.
Yes, orthotic insoles can help reduce leg pain by providing better support for the feet and promoting proper alignment of the arch and bone structure. This in turn can reduce stress on the legs and veins.
The time it takes to recover from a leg thrombosis can vary, depending on the severity of the thrombosis and the treatment. As a rule, a treatment period of several weeks to months can be expected. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions exactly and to attend regular follow-up checks.
Shoes should be replaced if they show visible signs of wear and tear, such as worn soles, damaged uppers or if they have lost their original shape. Also, if you notice that the shoes no longer offer the same comfort or support as when you started, it’s time for a new pair.
Sometimes the shoes still look fine on the outside, but they cause severe pain due to a worn footbed. A new pair of shoes can provide considerable relief from intense foot pain.