The causes of heavy legs
Heavy legs often result from venous insufficiency, poor blood circulation or fluid retention . To understand all this, we must go back to the mode of operation of the venous system of the lower limbs. The various tissues present in the legs (the skin, the muscles, the bones) are irrigated by a vascular network made up of arteries which supply oxygenated blood, and veins which bring blood loaded with CO2 back to the heart. Traffic is therefore in the round trip direction.
venous insufficiency
The rise of blood from the legs is favored by what is called “plantar hunting”. That is to say, when we walk, the vessels located on the soles of the feet are compressed and propel the blood flow upwards. This thrust is then relayed by the calf muscles when they contract, allowing the blood to continue its ascent. The veins are equipped with an antigravity system which prevents the blood from going backwards: the valves. When these valves are defective (insufficient venous), the return of blood operated by the veins located at the level of the legs becomes difficult, because it must overcome gravity. The blood then stagnates in the legs: this is what causes the feeling of heavy legs .
the hormones
Hormonal imbalances occurring during menstruation or during pregnancy can also cause the feeling of heavy legs. The high level of estrogen acts on the permeability of blood vessels, making it difficult to circulate blood which tends to stagnate.
Edemas
The feeling of heavy legs is also due in some cases to an edema problem . This is when the wall of the veins weakens and becomes permeable, allowing water to filter through. The accumulation of this liquid outside the vessels causes edema: hence the feeling of heavy calves or swollen legs.
The weight
Obesity and overweight also promote this phenomenon. Being often accompanied by cholesterol levels in the blood, overweight problems alter and weaken the blood vessels.
The hygiene of life
Beware of smoking which weakens the tone of the veins and can facilitate the appearance of heaviness in the legs. As well as static work positions and ill-fitting shoes (stiletto heels) that numb the legs and cause multiple pains.
How to relieve heavy legs?
The sport
Walking is an excellent way to obtain better blood circulation, under the effect of muscular contractions which play the role of a blood pump. Certain sports such as cycling and aquabiking also stimulate blood circulation, and allow you to have light legs. This is also the case with swimming.
Cosmetic treatments
In this same register, there are creams and gels containing very effective active ingredients which act favorably on the fluidity of the blood circulation. They make it possible to energize the venous return, and make feel a sensation of freshness which will quickly relieve the patient. These gels and creams are to be applied when you feel the need, by means of a massage which is carried out from the tips of the feet to the top of the thigh to respect the direction of blood circulation .
Compression garments
To relieve the effects of venous insufficiency, in this case heaviness and swelling, there are compression socks and stockings . Due to their rather particular weaving pattern and their tight knit, they exert venous pressure on the leg, which promotes the return of blood.
Draining massages
A draining massage can also be used to prevent the effects of lymph node congestion. This particular type of massage is performed by a physiotherapist in the form of light muscle pressure on each leg, for about thirty minutes.
food
Finally, all these measures must be accompanied by an appropriate diet , made up of lots of fruits and vegetables. These contain antioxidants and vitamin C that protect the vein wall.
Sardines and salmon being rich in omega 3 and fatty acid, they help to improve blood circulation.
Add garlic and ginger to your preparations, as they are excellent for thinning the blood and reducing cholesterol.
Do you like to drink green tea ? That turns out well ! This antioxidant-rich drink helps improve blood flow.
Do not forget the watermelon which is a juicy fruit moisturizing and preventing the formation of clots in the blood. Drinking at least 1.5 liters of water a day helps make the blood less viscous.
