Exercises to Help with Varicose Vein Prevention

Did you know that regular exercise can reduce your risk of developing varicose veins? If you already have them, exercise can be useful as a varicose veins treatment, easing your symptoms and preventing further progression. No one really knows how to prevent varicose veins completely but being active can improve your circulation and help you maintain a healthy weight. If you already have varicose veins, improved circulation can help ease your symptoms.

So, are there some exercises that are better than others for varicose veins? Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about whether or not certain exercises are right for you. For most people with varicose veins on the legs, the following exercises can be beneficial.

• Walking or running: These strengthen bones and muscles, can help maintain a healthy blood pressure, and can aid in weight loss.
• Bicycling: A low-impact exercise, bicycling can increase your circulation and strengthen your calf muscles while also protecting your joints. There’s also benefit to stretching your leg muscles by lying on your back with your knees drawn to your chest and “bicycling” your legs.
• Leg lifts: Lying flat on your back, lift one leg at a time, holding it in the air for a few seconds before switching legs. You can also do standing leg lifts, holding onto something stable and extending your leg in front of you, then alternating.
• Lunges: Lunges work many different muscle groups in your feet and calves and can help keep blood flowing properly. Stand with your feet slightly apart, step forward and bend the knee, keeping it directly above your ankle. Hold for a few seconds, straighten up, and switch legs.
• Rocking Feet: This involves resting your weight on the ball of your feet, then lowering your heel, then resting your weight on your heel and lifting the ball of your foot. Doing this stretches out the muscles in your feet and improves your muscle strength and circulation.
• Leg Elevation: Lie on your back and raise your legs straight up into the air. Hold this position for a few minutes, propping your legs against the wall, if necessary, then lower your legs to the ground. This can help relieve swollen or achy legs.
• Calf Raises: These improve circulation and can even speed the healing of venous leg wounds. Standing on a staircase, hands resting against the wall and heels hanging off the back edge of the stair, raise your heels so you’re on your tiptoes. Hold for a moment, then lower your heels below the platform to stretch your calf muscles. Try to build up to three sets of 10-15 repetitions.

If you’re seeking the very best care for your vein and blood flow issues, trust the board-certified physicians at the Arizona Vein & Laser Institute. Using the most advanced technology, the vascular and cardiovascular surgeons at the Arizona Vein & Laser Institute provide care for all types of venous diseases. With over 40 years of experience, our team of experienced physicians can devise the right treatment plan to address your venous disease problems. For more information contact us through our website.