Varicose veins are caused by inefficient transport of blood back to the heart. Graduated compression hosiery helps to restore proper blood flow and blood circulation in the legs, toning the leg's veins to prevent the swelling and knotting of blood vessels. Weakened veins don’t pump blood back to the heart adequately, which causes the blood to flow backwards within the vein, creating pressure and causing the vein to become swollen and distended. Graduated compression hosiery is the first line of defense against spider veins and varicose veins.

Along with graduated compression therapy hosiery, following some simple rules below can help keep your legs healthy, energized, and light, as well as prevent the spread of spider and varicose veins.
 
• Adopt a less sedentary lifestyle. Staying seated or standing on your feet for extended periods will take its toll on your legs. If   you need to stay seated for long periods of time, move your toes and feet in circular motions to stimulate your calves. Stand on the balls of your feet to stimulate your leg muscles all over. These exercises are also valid if your traveling by car, plane or train. If you are seated for long periods of time, try and move your feet and legs with these simple exercises every 30 to 45 minutes.
• Avoid bathing in water that is excessively hot.
• Avoid wearing excessively tight clothing. This can restrict blood flow.
• Rest with your legs propped up, above your heart to assist in blood circulation of the legs.
• Keep your weight down. Excessive weight puts strain on your heart, arteries, and veins as well as pressure on your legs.
• Reduce your salt intake. This will help prevent further ankle and leg swelling.
• Make exercise a regular part of your day. Walking is great. It exercises the muscles and helps to increase blood flow.
• Ask your doctor about utilizing herbal supplements shown to help with circulation such as butcher’s broom, ginkgo biloba, and gotu kola.  

DURING PREGNANCY, women are at an elevated risk for getting varicose veins.

During pregnancy, graduated compression hosiery is the first line of defense against spider veins and varicose veins. Other things that you can do to prevent varicose and spider veins and keep your legs light and energized:

• Exercise daily. Just a relaxing walk can boost blood circulation
• Elevate your feet and legs whenever possible. When your sitting down, use a stool to rest your legs. Keep your feet elevated on a pillow when you're lying down
• Sleep on your left side. The largest vein in your body is the vena cava and carries the largest amount of blood through your body. Because it is located on the right side of your body, lying on your left side will decrease added pressure on the vein
• Rest frequently. The less you exert your body, the less pressure you will put on your veins.
• Don't cross your legs or ankles when sitting
• Don't sit or stand for long periods without taking breaks to move around.
• Try to keep within the recommended weight range for your stage of pregnancy