Did you know that problems associated with varicose veins goes beyond appearance? They are uncomfortable and may result in more severe complications.
Fortunately, through workout, you can relieve discomfort and improve the appearance of this condition. This, in turn, will make you feel better and avoid surgery.
Why Exercise?
Exercising regularly improves blood circulation. This, in turn, strengthens your muscles and boost the oxygen level in the body. In addition, exercising daily can minimize triglycerides levels, decrease blood pressure, and prevent further vein problems and improve flow of blood in your veins.
The Best Exercises
Unfortunately, not every exercise is suitable for patients with this condition. Healthcare providers have specifically suggested the following exercises to help you alleviate your pain and symptoms associated with the condition:
1. Leg Lifts
Lifting your legs regularly can temporary lessen swelling and alleviate discomfort. It achieves this for several reasons. First, it gets your blood moving to proper direction. Second, it minimizes pressure on your veins.
To do this exercise properly, you have to lie on the floor, bed, or sofa and stretch your feet. Maintaining that position for several minutes and repeating this exercise for a few days will guarantee you benefits.
2. Walking
If you like walking, wear comfortable shoes. Walking builds up and stretches calf muscles, thus, improving blood circulation. Walking for 20 minutes every day can also promote healthy veins, while relieving pain and swelling associated with the condition.
3. Yoga
Yoga provides a lot of benefits but can’t cure or prevent varicose veins. However, muscle strength, improved blood circulation, and flexibility you achieve through yoga can relieve discomfort that varicose veins cause. Examples of yoga poses that can help you achieve that include the following:
- Mountain pose
- Warrior 2
- Butterfly
- Bridge
4. Swimming
Swimming remains the best way to shrink and relax your veins. In addition to treating varicose veins, it helps other parts of your body in various ways.
For one, it promotes weight loss. Losing weight doesn’t necessarily treat varicose veins, but that extra weight can worsen your symptoms. In addition, swimming doesn’t put a lot of pressure on your legs and joints.
5. Bicycling
Similar to walking, it increases blood circulation, and can protect your joints. Cycling regularly not only promotes healthy flow of blood but also strengthens calf muscles. To achieve this, you can either use a stationary or traditional bike.
If you have none, you may still stretch muscles of your legs. All you have to do is lie down on your back, draw the knees towards the chest, and make a pedaling motion using your legs.
Is your varicose veins worrying you? Or have you noticed complications, such as ulcers or poor healing? If so, seek medical advice or input from a professional healthcare provider. Remember, symptoms associated with varicose veins can be an indication of other health problems, like tumors, infection, and blood clots, too. So, if you notice any severe, persistent, or unusual symptoms, ensure a doctor examines you first.
