Interesting Facts About The Tired Legs Syndrome

The tired legs syndrome is caused by chronic venous insufficiency which often requires surgical intervention. However, lifestyle also plays a very important role. Then learn more about this topic.

The daily challenges affect our health. It is not uncommon for tired legs to become noticeable after a hard day at work. However, if this continues to happen, it could be  leg tired syndrome , which is relatively unknown but which a large number of people suffer from.

Fortunately, it is not a serious illness,  but the symptoms can still interfere with daily activities. It is therefore important to take appropriate measures.

Often this syndrome is directly related to the job. People who have to stand for a long time are particularly at risk of suffering from it. Find out more about it afterwards.

Leg tired syndrome: what is it?

The natural cell aging process causes the cell walls to enlarge more quickly. This, in turn, causes the blood vessels to become more sensitive and less efficient. The veins allow the blood to flow back into the right atrium. The venous valves allow the blood to be transported towards the heart (against gravity) by preventing backflow. You are supported by the muscle pump through appropriate movements.

However, if there is venous insufficiency, for example because the muscle pump or the venous valves are not working properly, various complaints can become noticeable:  heaviness, tiredness or swelling, which is mainly expressed in the legs. 

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) leads to venous flow obstruction, microcirculation disorders and trophic changes in the legs and feet. Skin vein changes, edema, spider veins and varicose veins as well as other complications indicate this insufficiency. 

The tired legs syndrome

The most common signs of tired legs syndrome are:

• Heaviness and edema in the legs
• Pain
• itching
• fatigue
• Muscle spasms
• Nocturnal paresthesia (“asleep” legs)
• Tingling or sore muscles

• Spider veins or varicose veins (dilated veins that prevent proper venous return of blood to the heart). Spider veins are small red veins, varicose veins are larger and often blue in color.
• Swelling that gets worse when people stand or do not move for a long time.

Clinical data indicate that  itching, heaviness, and pain occur in most cases. 

• Age:  Various studies have shown that the risk of venous disease in people over 65 years of age is 60 percent higher.
• Personal circumstances, such as circulatory disorders and related illnesses

• Genetic predisposition (family history)
• Hormonal causes (especially during pregnancy, during or after the menopause and through oral contraceptives and hormone therapies)
• Morphology of the feet:  Flat feet increase the risk, as in this case the muscle contraction when walking is less.

In addition, there are also factors that can be prevented relatively easily:

• Sedentary lifestyle
• Long standing or sitting
• Long exposure to the sun or high temperatures
• Risk Professions: Health Workers, Flight Attendants, Hospitality Professions, Hairdressers, Office Workers, Drivers, Teachers, etc.
• Overweight and obesity, especially in women. The adipose tissue in the legs makes the muscle pump, which is important for venous return, less efficient.
• Constipation increases abdominal pressure and can therefore also affect the venous return of blood to the heart.

• Very tight clothing around the legs and hips also  hinders venous return.
• High temperatures cause the veins to dilate and make it difficult for the blood to return to the heart.

All of these factors play  a role in leg fatigue syndrome. You should therefore try to lead a healthy lifestyle to prevent complications in the long term.

Prevention and treatment

It is particularly important that you change certain lifestyle habits. The following measures can help you:

• Elevate your legs : You should elevate  your legs for at least 30 minutes two to three times a day. Sit on a chair and support your legs against the wall, for example, so that they are higher. You can also lie down in bed, but under no circumstances should you cross your legs when lying up.
• Exercise every day :  You should take 30 to 60 minutes of exercise every day! Specific leg exercises are particularly efficient. Sports such as swimming, cycling, Pilates, or yoga are also excellent choices.
• Preventing obesity:  Eat a healthy and balanced diet to avoid obesity. If necessary, it is best to seek help from a nutritionist.
• Avoid heat and sun exposure:  You can spray your legs with cold water to stimulate blood circulation!

• During the night, place your legs 4 to 8 inches higher than the rest of your body.
• Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing or shoes:  Opt for clothing made from natural fabrics so your skin can breathe. The clothes and shoes shouldn’t be too tight. Don’t forget that high heels are also not recommended.
• Prevent or treat constipation:  Make sure you have regular bowel movements. If you have problems like constipation, you can achieve a lot with an appropriate diet.
• Check your blood pressure.
• Massages from the feet towards the heart:  To stimulate blood circulation and prevent fluid accumulation in the tissue, you can massage your feet and legs every day.

Treatment options

Leg tired syndrome is not a serious condition, but it is becoming a growing problem. The following treatments are possible to alleviate the symptoms:

• Compression therapy:  Compression stockings or bandages exert pressure on the venous leg vascular system in order to improve the blood flow rate. See your doctor for advice.
• Hydrotherapy:  Cold or lukewarm showers in combination with massages are also very beneficial. With it you can stimulate the blood circulation and facilitate the venous return.
• Phytotherapy:  Various medicinal plants also improve blood circulation. You should also seek advice from an expert in this area. In many cases, ginkgo biloba, butcher’s broom, Hamamelis virginiana and other medicinal plants are recommended.

• Medicines:  The doctor may prescribe vein-strengthening medicines to improve venous return.
• Surgery:  In severe cases, vascular surgery may be required.

Leg tired syndrome affects quality of life if not properly addressed. It is best to have your doctor examine and advise you at the first signs!