Understanding Varicose Veins: When Your Legs Are Asking for a Little Extra Help
Why More Patients Are Turning to Dr. Stephen Ryan at Culbertson Memorial Hospital
For many people in our community, long days on the factory floor or in healthcare settings come with sore feet, tired legs, and—far too often—something a bit more visible: varicose veins. These rope-like, bulging veins aren’t just a cosmetic nuisance. They can be uncomfortable, frustrating, and, in some cases, a sign of deeper circulation issues. The good news? You don’t have to live with them. Culbertson Memorial Hospital is proud to offer minimally invasive laser treatments with vascular surgeon Dr. Stephen Ryan, who brings a warm, compassionate approach to helping patients feel (and look) better.
As Dr. Ryan often explains to patients, varicose veins “are extremely common—especially for people who stand or sit for long periods. Fortunately, today’s treatments are easier and more effective than ever before.” His goal is simple: help patients regain comfort, confidence, and healthier circulation with a procedure that fits easily into their everyday lives.
When Veins Go Rogue: What Exactly Are Varicose Veins?
Think of your veins as highways carrying blood back to your heart. Inside those veins are tiny valves that open and close to keep traffic flowing in the right direction. Over time—due to genetics, lifestyle, or just the wear and tear of working hard—those valves can weaken. When they do, blood can pool and pressure builds. That pressure causes the vein to stretch, twist, and bulge. The result is what we recognize as a varicose vein.
While many people notice them on their calves, varicose veins can pop up anywhere along the legs. They can appear bluish or purple, stand out like cords, and sometimes feel tender or warm to the touch.
But aesthetics isn’t the only issue. These veins can cause a host of uncomfortable symptoms, including:
- Leg heaviness or aching, especially after standing
- Swelling in the lower legs or ankles
- Nighttime leg cramps (the kind that wake you up)
- Itching or throbbing around the veins
- Fatigue in the legs, even on low-activity days
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not imagining it.
Why Do Varicose Veins Happen? (Spoiler: It’s Not Your Fault)
While anyone can develop varicose veins, certain factors increase the likelihood. Dr. Ryan shares with patients that the most common contributors include:
Long periods of standing or sitting.
Factory workers, healthcare professionals, office employees, and retail workers know the feeling of being on their feet—or off their feet—for hours. Circulation needs movement, so staying in one position for too long makes veins work overtime.
Hormones and birth control.
Hormonal changes, especially in women, can relax vein walls. Pregnancy, hormone therapy, and birth control pills all play a role.
Family history.
If your parents or grandparents had varicose veins, odds are your veins may follow suit.
Overweight.
Excess weight adds pressure to your veins, making it harder for them to function effectively.
Age.
Let’s face it—our veins don’t know how to act like they’re 20 forever.
None of these factors are personal failings. They’re simply realities of biology, lifestyle, and heredity. And fortunately, modern medicine offers simple, yet life-changing solutions.
Compression Socks, Creams, and Other Home Remedies: Helpful or Hype?
Many people turn to creams, over-the-counter treatments, or compression socks hoping for relief. So, what actually works?
Compression socks:
These are often a great starting point. Compression socks gently squeeze the legs to help support blood flow. They can reduce swelling and help with discomfort, but they won’t make varicose veins disappear. Think of it like putting a supportive brace on your leg—you’ll feel better, but it won’t reverse the underlying issue.
Creams and ointments:
While soothing, topical creams won’t correct damaged vein valves. They can help with itchiness or mild inflammation, but not with the root cause.
Exercise and leg elevation:
Simple movement—like walking or ankle-pumping exercises—can encourage circulation. Elevating your legs at the end of the day can also relieve symptoms. These strategies won’t cure varicose veins, but they can take the edge off.
If you’re looking for true, lasting improvement, treatment options like laser vein closure are the gold standard.
Laser Treatment: A Modern, Minimally Invasive Solution
At Culbertson Memorial Hospital, Dr. Stephen Ryan offers minimally invasive laser treatment for varicose veins—a highly effective procedure with little downtime and impressive results.
Here’s how it works:
A small fiber is inserted into the affected vein. Using targeted laser energy, Dr. Ryan gently closes the damaged vein. Once closed, the vein is no longer able to carry blood, so blood naturally reroutes through healthier veins. Over time, the closed vein is absorbed by the body and gradually becomes less visible.
Patients love this treatment for several reasons:
- It’s quick.
Most procedures take under an hour. - It’s comfortable.
Local numbing is used, so patients remain awake but relaxed. Many describe it as easier than a dental appointment. - It’s effective.
Patients frequently report improved circulation, better comfort, and noticeable aesthetic benefits. - It’s low-downtime.
Many people return to normal activities the next day—sometimes even the same day. - It improves both symptoms and appearance.
Whether you’re tired of heavy, achy legs or simply ready for smoother-looking calves, laser treatment helps address both.
Dr. Ryan notes that “patients are often surprised at how easy the procedure is—and how quickly they feel better. The relief can be almost immediate.”
Why Seek Treatment Now?
It’s easy to put off a procedure when life gets busy. But untreated varicose veins rarely improve on their own. In fact, symptoms often worsen with time. Seeking early treatment can prevent complications like worsening discomfort, skin changes, or even ulcers in more severe cases.
Plus, treating varicose veins can improve:
- Daily comfort.
Walking, working, and even sleeping become easier. - Circulation.
Healthier blood flow means healthier legs. - Appearance.
Many patients love the cosmetic improvement—no more worrying about shorts season. - Quality of life.
For many, treatment brings relief they didn’t realize they were missing.
Meet Dr. Stephen Ryan
Dr. Ryan brings extensive experience in vascular surgery to Culbertson Memorial Hospital. Patients appreciate his easy-going manner, clear explanations, and genuine interest in helping them feel better. His specialty clinic provides world-class care without requiring long drives or big-city appointments.
To learn more about Dr. Ryan, you can visit his provider page.
Whether you want to schedule a consultation or simply explore your options, Dr. Ryan and the Culbertson team are ready to support you with kindness, expertise, and a personalized approach.
Schedule today
Dr. Ryan sees patients at Culbertson Memorial Hospital the fourth Tuesday of every month. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Ryan, please call Patient Access at (217) 322-5271.