There are two different types of veins inside the leg. There are superficial veins, which sit just below the skin and are easily seen on the surface. These often are the ones that developed varicosities or spider veins. Then there are deep veins which are located deep within the muscles of the legs. Blood flows between the superficial veins and the deep veins through smaller veins, called perforator veins. Both superficial and perforator veins have one-way valves that allow the blood to flow in only one direction.

Blood clots can form in either the superficial veins or the deep veins. When they form in the superficial veins there is very little risk that they will travel and cause problems in other areas of the body. They form, for the most part, along a track of vein that has become varicose because of the stagnation of the blood. The same is true for blood clots that form in the deep vein systems. They form because of the stagnation, the inability of the blood to move quickly, through the venous system.

A person has an increased risk of a clots forming in their deep veins when they travel for long distances in a car, train or plane. All of these involve prolonged sitting with knees bent at 90°. Individuals who are hospitalized and are not up and moving around also have an increased risk as well is individuals who have undergone surgery. Any time there is a trauma to the lower leg, whether there is surgery or a cast placed or not, the individual has an increased risk of developing a deep vein thrombosis. Continue reading →

Spider veins are like varicose veins but they are much smaller. They often begin as small capillaries that are blue or red squiggles on the skin. Most common areas are over the surface of the thighs, calves and ankles. Unfortunately, it is estimated that at least one third of the adult female population will experience spider veins at one time or another in their life.

Women often seek treatment for spider veins because they are of cosmetic concern. And, for cosmetic reasons, insurance companies will not cover the treatment. However, it is not uncommon for spider veins to also cause specific symptoms, such as aching, heaviness or itching on the legs. Spider veins are associated with larger underlying varicose veins and are sometimes a precursor to those larger medical problems. (1)

To fully understand how a spider vein will materialize it is important to understand the underlying physiology of the vascular system. Normally, oxygen enters the lungs and is transferred to arterial blood supply. This blood is then pumped around the body using the force behind the heart muscle. Once the blood gets to the furthest end of the arterial supply and no longer has oxygen to deliver to the cellular system, it begins its long journey back to the lungs to pick up more oxygen. Continue reading →