Exercising is a great way to reduce the risk of developing varicose veins. The vascular disease is very common in the united states, almost one-third of adults have the disease. If you already have varicose veins or if you want to prevent the development of the vein issues, exercise can help prevent them. While exercise might ease the symptoms, it often is not enough to prevent them completely. However, there are a number of exercises that can make a large difference in the health of your veins. Keep reading to see the best exercises to keep your veins healthy.
Walking
Walking can be incredibly beneficial for your veins. It is safe for people of all fitness levels and ages. It can also help you maintain healthy blood pressure, reducing the pressure on the veins in your legs and ankles while also helping you lose weight and strengthen your muscles or bones.
Cycling
Cycling is a perfect exercise to improve your cardiovascular health without high impact. It can improve your circulation and prevent injury to your joints at the same time. It can strengthen your muscles in your legs while also improving your blood flow. You can ride a traditional or a stationary bike. However, if you don’t have a bike, you can still make the pedaling motion with your legs. This is particularly important if you spend most of your day sitting or standing in one position.
Elevating Your Legs
Keeping your legs elevated can help reduce the swelling and ease the pressure on your veins. It helps because your veins in your legs are often fighting against gravity to get the blood back to your heart. When the valves become weak, it allows the blood to slip back and pool in your legs and feet. However, when you elevate your legs, you make it easier for the blood to get back to the heart without it having to fight against gravity. Simply lie with your feet up in the air. You can prop them against a wall if you want some support.
Lunges
Lunging can help work the different muscle groups in your legs, including those in your calves and feet. When your muscles are strong, they can help the blood flowing toward your heart. Start with your feet slightly apart. Step forward and bend your knee. It’s important to use the proper form by keeping your knee aligned with your ankle.
Leg Lifts
Lifts don’t require special equipment though you can use weights if you would like. Simply start lying on your back and lift one leg into the air at a time. Keep it in the air before alternating your legs. It can help stretch the leg muscles and they can improve your circulation. It also improves your flexibility.
Rock Your Feet
keeping the muscles in your feet limber and stretching can help improve your circulation. Start by resting your feet on the ball and then lower your heel. Then lift the ball of your foot while keeping the weight centered on the heel. You can complete the exercise while sitting or standing, you can even do them at your desk.
Metro Vein Centers
If you find exercising is not enough to reduce the symptoms of varicose veins, speak with a vein doc at the Metro Vein Centers. They have locations in Michigan, New York, New Jersey, Texas, and Pennsylvania.
Dr. Anthony Kaminsky is a leading vein doc at the center in Michigan. He has more than a decade of experience after completing his residency at Beaumont Health Hospital in Michigan. Prior to joining the experts at Metro Vein Centers, he had a private general practice.
