Leg Exercises for Varicose Veins
By Ron E Lev MD – Follow me on Google+
Exercise is an effective way to reduce the painful symptoms associated with varicose veins, such as swelling, heaviness and achiness in the lower legs. Regular physical activity may even help to keep those unsightly blue and purple lines on the surface of the skin from forming in the first place. If you are looking for ways to manage your venous condition, we have some fabulous exercise options to try.
Aerobic Activities for Varicose Veins
Aerobic activity is one of the best ways to maintain a healthy circulatory system overall. Some of the best options in aerobic exercise for varicose veins include:
- Walking – Regular walking keeps your legs strong so they can efficiently pump blood back to your heart. Try to walk at least a short distance daily to get the full benefit.
- Swimming – This aerobic exercise is healthy for the heart without putting undue strain on the rest of the body through high-impact activity.
- Bicycling – Pedaling motions also promote healthy blood flow, and it doesn’t have to be done on the street. You can reap the same benefits on a stationary bike or by simply lying on your back and pedaling your legs in the air.
Desk Exercises to Keep Blood Pumping
If you can’t take the time for a full aerobic workout, you can still give your varicose veins a boost with simple exercises right at your desk. Take time each day to rotate feet in circular motions, reversing direction halfway through. You can also bend your feet back and forth at the ankle and your lower leg back and forth at the knee a few times a day to increase circulation.
Safe Exercise Techniques for Varicose Veins
If you already have varicose veins, learn safe techniques that help you promote healthy blood flow without exacerbating your existing condition. When possible, exercise with your legs level with or elevated above your heart, to make it easier for blood to pump from the lower extremities to the heart. Consider swimming or resistance training exercises that put you in the proper position. If you are walking or bicycling, wear compression stockings to strengthen veins during exercise.
Exercises that can Exacerbate Venous Conditions
If you have already been diagnosed with varicose veins or a venous condition, avoid the following high-impact exercises:
- Running
- Jumping
- Weight Lifting
- High-Impact Aerobics
The right type of exercise can make a huge difference in the management of venous disease and varicose veins. For more information on the best exercise for varicose veins, contact Advanced Varicose Vein Treatments of Manhattan today.