Most patients return to normal activity immediately after EVLA treatment, although a minority may not do so for up to a week.
You can start to walk immediately after the procedure. The whole leg may be stiff and tender to the touch in places. Take painkillers if you need them. You should aim to walk about every half hour or so during the day for the first week or two. For many people this simply means getting back to their active daily routine as rapidly as possible. Avoid standing or sitting with the foot on the floor as much as you can for about two weeks after the operation.
This varies a lot between different people. We encourage you to return to normal activities immediately, although swimming will not be feasible in the first two weeks and we advise against using the gym or running in the first two weeks also, as this allows the treated vein to fully seal and close. Your legs may be a little tender and bruised for a month or more.
You can drive as soon as you feel confident and for most that should be the morning after treatment. We advise against driving home after treatment as your leg will be slightly stiff with the bandage and stocking and may make an emergency stop difficult in the first few hours whilst you get used to it.
When can I return to work and play sports?
You can return to work and sporting activity as soon after the procedure as you feel sufficiently well and comfortable. Avoid violent sports while you are still in support stockings or bandages, and thereafter start with some gradual training, rather than in immediate competition. Do not go swimming until you are out of support stockings and all the wounds are dry.