Varicose veins, those twisted enlarged veins that appear on your legs, can cause discomfort and certain complications.

But what if we told you that you can get relief from varicose veins from a method as simple as walking? Yes, you read that right.

Walking could be the key to managing varicose veins and improving your overall vein health.

Mykare Health is here to explain it further for you. In this blog, we will be exploring how walking can help fight your varicose veins and how it can make a big difference.

Let’s dive in!

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Varicose vein is a painful condition of the legs where the veins become prominent and swell up.

It is caused due to the malfunctioning of the valves of the vein. It leads to the pooling of the blood into the veins and creating the bulging shape of it.

The common symptoms of varicose veins are pain, swelling and a feeling of heaviness of the legs. Inability to move freely may be seen in few.

Several factors are responsible for you developing varicose veins, like:

• Family history

• Certain health conditions such as over weight, pregnancy.

• Lifestyle factors such as prolonged standing or sitting.

Walking and Varicose Veins

Walking doesn’t remove varicose veins but helps manage the symptoms of it.

Walking can definitely keep you healthy and fit, but it will not make the valves of the vein function properly to remove your varicose vein.

You can definitely manage it with a certain level of physical exercises. A specialist can remove your varicose veins by certain surgical procedures or compression socks.

Existing varicose veins have already undergone structural changes, so they won't magically disappear.

However, walking can have several advantages over your swollen veins. Let’s take a look at them:

Walking helps reduce swelling and discomfort: Swollen and bulged out veins get more blood circulation which drains the excess fluids from your legs. This will give you relief from the heaviness of the limbs.

Walking helps prevent new varicose veins: While you cannot treat your existing varicose veins but can definitely prevent the development of new ones.

This can be achieved by keeping your fluid circulation healthy and managing your weight.

Prevention is better than cure and in this case, since there is no cure for the already prominent varicose veins, it's wise to prevent the development of any.

Lowers the Blood Pressure: By this, your vessels become less stiff and improves the circulation of blood to and from the limbs to the heart and other parts of the body.

Walking has a plethora of health benefits: For middle-aged people, who hardly get any time for workouts, walking is the best form of physical activity. This not only boosts your mood, but also strengthens your heart and improves your bone density. So, walking is a win-win for your entire body!

Walking improves quality of sleep: Your body is able to maintain its normal sleep cycle by producing melatonin when you spend some time walking miles. Morning walks are found to be most effective in maintaining a balanced sleep awake cycle.

Don’t be harsh on yourself with walking or exercising.

• Start walking slowly for at least 15 minutes on all days of the week.

• If you are choosing low-impact physical activities, remember not to put too much strain on your legs.

• Avoid such activities that may put any additional stress on the veins.

• Always wear good supportive footwear and clothing to prevent any injury.

• Prioritise your body. If at any point, you start to feel any pain or discomfort in your concerned leg, stop exercising and get some rest.

Always seek medical help when you experience severe pain in your varicose vein-ed leg.

This may be due to the blood clot that is blocking the vessels causing severe pain and swelling.

It may also travel to other parts of the body including lungs causing Pulmonary embolism which is a life-threatening situation.

Know More About Varicose Vein Treatment Cost

Other Alternatives

Keep moving your body to fight against varicose veins Any form of physical exercise can help you manage varicose veins effectively.

• Yoga

• Swimming

• Cycling

• Leg lifts

Workouts that a person with varicose veins should avoid to keep themselves healthy are:

• Running

• Skipping

• Weight-lifting

• Squats

• Sit-ups

There is no substitute to exercise or walking. You can also practice subtle exercises if you are pregnant with varicose veins.

Keeping yourself active is the most important part of pregnancy. Obviously, take your gynecologist’s prior permission before exercising.

Can Walking Cure Varicose Veins?

Unfortunately, no. Walking cannot remove varicose veins but can keep those under control. You need to maintain a lifestyle change along with certain medications and surgical treatment sometimes to cure varicose veins.

FAQs

1. Can exercise alone make varicose veins go away?

I feel bad to bear bad news, but exercise cannot make varicose veins go away completely. However, it can help reduce symptoms, improve the circulation, and promote an overall good venous health.

2. Can walking prevent the development of new varicose veins?

Yes, it can help reduce the risk of developing new varicose veins. As we know, regular exercises improve your overall cardiovascular health, promote an efficient blood flow, and help manage your weight. All of these contribute to healthier veins and a happier life.

3. Can exercise worsen my varicose veins?

No, when performed correctly following recommended guidelines, exercise should not worsen your varicose veins. But, if you experience increased pain, swelling, or discomfort during or after exercise, it is always advisable to consult your healthcare professional.

4. Can exercise replace medical treatment for varicose veins?

Exercise alone cannot replace medical treatment for varicose veins. It can help manage symptoms and improve venous health. You need medications to bring back your vein valves to the working conditions.

5. Can I wear compression stockings while walking for varicose veins?

Yes, wearing compression stockings during exercise can increase the venous return and reduce symptoms associated with it. Always consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate level of compression and duration of use.

6. Is it safe to exercise with severe varicose veins?

If you have severe varicose veins, it is important to consult with your physician before starting any exercise program. They will evaluate your condition and provide personalized guidance to you on the suitable exercises and any precautions to take.

So, the bottom line is that walking is not about chasing away your varicose veins. It's an excellent investment for your overall health and well-being.

So, don’t wait to put on your walking shoes. Rush into the outside world, embrace the fresh air around you, and get ready to feel the best.

Walking is a powerful tool, but it's crucial to consult your physician for the personalised advice and treatment options specific to the needs.

By combining regular exercise with the professional treatment options, you can very effectively manage the varicose veins and improve your overall quality of life.

Learn More About Varicose Vein Treatment