As a practicing member of Virginia Vein Care, Lawrence J. Markovitz, MD, treats a variety of vein diseases. Dr. Lawrence Markovitz comes to this role with an in-depth knowledge of human veins, how they work, and what helps to maintain their health.

1. STRATEGIES FOR MAINTAINING VEIN
HEALTH
Lawrence J. Markovitz MD

2. INTRODUCTION
 As a practicing member of Virginia Vein Care, Lawrence
J. Markovitz, MD, treats a variety of vein diseases. Dr.
Lawrence Markovitz comes to this role with an in-depth
knowledge of human veins, how they work, and what
helps to maintain their health.
The venous system in the human body is responsible for
carrying depleted blood back to the heart so that it can
receive new oxygen and nutrients. This requires the
proper operation of a series of valves that close when
blood passes through them, thus preventing the blood
from flowing backward and collecting in the extremities. If
this does occur, an individual may develop swollen
varicose veins that are painful and potentially dangerous.

3. MAINTAINING VEIN HEALTH
 Patients can help to maintain their own vein health by
avoiding prolonged periods of sitting or standing. Sitting
with crossed legs can block blood flow and is thus also
worth avoiding, as is tight clothing that constricts the area
where the limb meets the trunk. Regular exercise is also
essential for keeping veins working the way that they
should, though experts recommend low-impact activity for
those who are at risk of or have vein disorders.
Other choices that help to maintain vein health include
conscientious weight management and the reduction of
salt, fat, and sugar from the diet. Leg elevation at the end
of the day and shoes with low to no heels also keep
stress off of the lower extremities and optimize vein
strength.