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While rather benign, this health condition affects about 15% of all adults worldwide. Most people recognize varicose veins because of their knotted, twisted, swollen and often bluish of these veins. In addition to any cosmetic concerns they may pose, these veins can cause discomfort in the form of dull nagging aches and pains, night cramps, ankle swelling, feelings of burning or leg fatigue after prolonged standing.

There are a number of factors that play a part in the development of varicose veins including heredity, gender, lifestyle, occupation and age. They are also known to form during pregnancy due to the dilating effect progesterone has on the veins. Because they are associated with lack of circulation, the formation of varicose veins is more common in people who sit or stand in one position for long periods of time, habitually sit with their legs crossed and those who lack regular exercise.

Recommendations For Wellness

   Avoid standing for prolonged periods of time. If this is unavoidable, move your legs often. Stretching and flexing your ankle will work to pump the blood out of your legs and get it circulating again.

   If you find yourself sitting for extended periods of time, get up and move around every 35 to 45 minutes.

   Take regular walks to help exercise the muscles of the legs and increase blood flow.

   Avoid clothing that may restrict blood flow.

   Keep your weight down. This can help to reduce pressure on your legs.

   To help prevent leg and ankle swelling, reduce your salt intake.

   Elevate your legs whenever possible especially when sitting.

   Topically, witch hazel can be applied to the legs to ease discomfort.

   Butcher's broom has historically been used when dealing with circulatory ailments such as varicose veins.

   Supplements such as ginkgo biloba, gotu kola or capsicum have been shown to improve circulation.

   Coenzyme Q10 also improved tissue oxygenation and increases circulation.

   Vitamin C with bioflavonoids and rutin can help this condition by reducing blood clotting tendencies, promoting healing and helping to strengthen the blood vessels.

   White oak bark can be used to help reduce inflammation of the veins as well as to tighten tissues and strengthen blood vessels.

   Essential fatty acids such as omega 3 or flax seed oil can help to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with varicose veins.

About the Author
Free your mind, body, and spirit naturally at SoulHealer.com. Dr. Rita Louise, PhD is a Naturopathic Physician and a 20-year veteran in the Human Potential Field, but it is her unique gift as a medical intuitive that enlivens her work. So whether it is a physical problem, an emotional issue, a problem at work or a problem in a relationship, Dr. Rita Louise, Ph.D. a can help you identify what is really going on and provide you with straightforward guidance and advice. Visit her at http://www.soulhealer.com.

Natural Care For Varicose Veins
by Dr. Rita Louise

Our circulatory system is made up of a complex web of arteries and veins. Our arteries carry oxygen rich blood to the cells of our bodies, while the veins are designed to pump oxygen poor blood back to the heart. This is accomplished through a series of one-way valves that do not allow blood to flow backwards into the vein. When someone suffers from varicose veins, the one-way valves of their veins do not close adequately, resulting in the inefficient transport of blood back to the heart. This causes the blood to flow backward within the vein, creating pressure and causing the vein to become swollen and distended.

Help Your Feet Survive

by Christine Dobrowolski, DPM

The days are shorter, the air is colder and the streets are slicker. Yet, many will still brave the cold, damp and dark streets and trails as winter sets in. For those who don't mind a little rain, snow, sleet or below freezing temperatures and run to survive the winter, it is important to know how to protect the feet so they too, can survive the winter months.

1. Consider running in a trail shoe, even if you are not running on trails.
Trail running shoes tend to protect your feet more than lighter nylon running shoes. Trail shoes also have more traction for slippery surfaces encountered during winter running.

2. Avoid cotton socks.
Synthetic socks wick away moisture and help prevent blister formation and cold feet.

3. Make sure your shoes fit.
Running shoes used for summer may not be an appropriate fit for winter. Many individuals will experience a small amount of swelling in their feet during the summer. This may cause a loose fit for winter, leading to heel slippage and potential blisters.

4. Pair your socks and shoes.
Don't assume your heavier socks will work with your summer running shoes. Some individuals wear heavier socks during the winter and this may lead to the toes being cramped in the front of the shoe causing discomfort, numbness and sometimes jamming of the toes leading to blood under the toenails. The reverse is also true. Your summer running socks may not work with your winter or running shoes.

5. Avoid tight footwear in cold weather.
Tight shoes may decrease circulation to the toes and increase the chance for nerve impingement on the top of the foot.

6. Run on flat surfaces.
In cold weather it is more difficult to adjust to uneven terrain because your muscles do not react as quickly. This will increase your chances of developing muscle strains and sprains. If you trail run in the winter, choose trails with fewer rocks, roots and dips.

7. Don't use your old worn-out shoes for winter running.
Do not start your winter running in shoes that have 400-500 miles on them. Wearing shoes that are worn-out can lead to foot problems such as plantar fasciitis and tendonitis.

8. Warm up slowly.
Your muscles will take longer to warm-up in colder weather. Your chances of injury increase when you do not take the time to warm-up properly.

9. Avoid speedwork in very cold weather.
Speedwork in cold weather will increase your chances of injury. Consider saving speedwork for the warmer days, and use the colder days for maintenance runs.

10. Take a break from running.
Consider cross training if you are feeling stiff and sore or if you are experiencing foot, ankle or leg discomfort. Overuse injuries occur more frequently in the winter as runners unconsciously alter their gait to adapt to slippery, hard to see surfaces.

About the Author
www.skipublishing.com
Christine Dobrowolski is a podiatrist and the author of hose Aching Feet: Your Guide to Diagnosis and Treatment of Common Foot Problems. Dr. Dobrowolski has published articles in The Lower Extremity and The Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery. She has co-authored a chapter in the McGlamry's Comprehensive Textbook of Foot and Ankle Surgery. You can learn more about Dr. Dobrowolski and her book at www.northcoastfootcare.com.