Conservative

The aim is to improve venous return and reduce pressure in varicose superficial veins. It should be considered in:

• patient's with uncomplicated varicosities
• the pregnant, the elderly or the unfit
• patient's who refuse other forms of treatment

Methods include:

• encourage walking
• discourage prolonged sitting or standing
• keep legs elevated when sitting to increase venous return
• lose weight, if appropriate
• wear supporting elastic stockings which compress superficial veins and prevent reflux from deep veins:
  • the stockings should extend from the distal metatarsals to just below the knee
  • avoid extending to the thigh unless they can be secured by means of a garter
  • use carefully because of potential tourniquet effect