Varicose Veins in Feet

By Dr. Jose Almeida

March 18, 2019


Varicose veins, we’ve all seen them in the calves and thighs, but do people really get them in their feet?

The answer is yes, varicose veins can be found on the feet too. Remember that veins are also found all over the body, which includes the feet. The veins in the feet are also subject to pressure from non functioning valves in the veins and weakening of the vein walls, which increase pressure in the veins. The increased pressure results in blood pooling in the veins causing varicose veins

VIDEO: Dr. Almeida Discusses Varicose Veins in the Feet

Why do Varicose Veins the Feet Hurt?

Varicose veins in the feet can be quite painful in that a lot more pressure gets placed on the veins, based on the mechanics of the feet with walking and that the feet are holding the weight of the entire body.

What causes Varicose Veins in the Feet?

Varicose veins may start in the feet, or may start higher in the leg and slowly move into the feet.  Any number of things can cause (https://www.miamivein.com/what-causes-varicose-veins/) a predisposition to develop varicose veins in the feet. These include family history, gender, age, and lifestyle. In addition, there is a possible link between wearing high heels daily can place pressure on the veins in the feet, resulting in varicose veins in the feet.

"Primary causes of varicose veins includes family history, gender, age, and lifestyle."

Symptoms of Varicose Veins

The symptoms of varicose veins in the feet are similar to the symptoms of varicose veins the the legs. The veins are usually visibly enlarged and twisted, with symptoms of heaviness, cramping, swelling, and skin discoloration. 

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Treatment options for Feet Varicose Veins

Just because the varicose veins are affecting your feet doesn’t mean that treatment options aren’t available for these troublesome veins. Treatment options are similar to that of varicose veins in the legs.

  • First and foremost, it may be painful to walk due to putting pressure on the feet, but walking is essential. By walking, this allows the muscles in the feet to press the veins moving blood from the varicose veins.
  • Compression stockings are another way to treat varicose veins, by placing pressure on feet to prevent swelling and compress the veins.  
  • Elevating the legs through the day or at the end of the day may also alleviate symptoms of varicose veins. 
  • Treatment of varicose veins is not just limited to conservative treatments, but there are procedural options that can permanently treat the varicose veins, such as sclerotherapy and endovascular laser therapy. Both procedures are performed in the clinic with minimal incisions.

What to do if you experience symptoms of varicose veins?

If you have varicose veins in your feet, whether they are causing any symptoms or are just simply unsightly, visit with a vein specialist to learn more about your symptoms, disease, and treatment options.

Dr. Jose Almeida, a board certified surgeon, at the Miami Vein Center is a leading expert in the care of varicose veins. He has years of experience helping patients prevent, treat and manage the complications of varicose veins.

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