This is my fifth year of leg treatments.

[no_hypocrisy]

Specifically, because my cankles were more than unsightly, my cardiologist referred me to the leg vein specialists.

My first year was a combination of modern day vein stripping. Some veins were pulled out and then there were lasers. Anesthesia of course.

Subsequent annual visits have injections where new minor blockages have been established. The needles are so thin that they feel more like slight bee stings rather than the shots we remember as kids.

My legs don't feel as tired and overall, my heart health has improved.

And I have a new machine that compresses my legs to get the lymph nodes to release collected fluid build-up.

What I don't like: those damned compression stockings. I feel like I'm stuffing sausage into casings. I know, I know. That's the point. Because I have four appointments in eight weeks every year, that's how long at the least I have to wear them. I'm thinking of looking at the stockings that have Velcro as I've heard they're easier to get in and out of.

[lark]

1. First of all, congrats on getting the treatment you need!

It's not always easy or even possible for lots of folks.

I have leg problems too, but from a birth defect of the veins. It's extensive, covering my entire left side, but especially my leg as it's weight bearing. I never wanted the stockings, despite being told to use them since I was in my teens - nope! When I got to my 60's, I had no real choice anymore, my leg hurt too much without them. It depends on which type of hose, Jobst is more supportive, but stiffer and Juzzo is much softer and easier to get into, but not quite as supportive. Those are the only 2 brands I've used and been doing this for 14 years now. I put it on first thing in the am, take them off when going to bed.

Some things have to be tolerated for the greater good (health and mobility).

Good luck!!