Can Varicose Veins Disappear with Exercise

Can varicose veins disappear with exercise? While exercise can certainly help, it may not make your varicose veins disappear completely. Here’s what you need to know.

What are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen veins under the skin’s surface. They occur most often on the legs and feet. Varicose veins are caused by weak or damaged valves in the veins that allow blood to pool in the vein.

Risk Factors

If you are older, lead a sedentary lifestyle, sit or stand for long periods or have obesity you are at a higher risk of developing varicose veins. Additionally, genetics may play a part in your risk levels. Varicose veins can also develop because of trauma or injury, or hormonal changes like those during pregnancy.

Best Exercises to Help Varicose Veins

First, with any type of exercise its important to start slowly and then gradually increase your activity level. Always speak to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. With that being said, there are some exercises that can help ease your discomfort from varicose veins and potentially prevent you from developing more varicose veins. Some of the best exercises for varicose veins include:

Walking. This low impact exercise improves calf muscle pump action. Aim for 30-45 minutes of constant motion at least once a day.
Swimming. This is a great low impact cardio exercise that doesn’t require your joints or bones to bear your weight. It also helps improve circulation and prevent blood from pooling in the legs.
Cycling. Outdoors or stationary, this exercise improves muscle strength and circulation. It is low impact and isn’t load bearing for your legs. You can even lie on your back and pedal in the air if you don’t have a bike.
Yoga. Poses that elevate your legs above your heart help improve circulation.

Exercising improves circulation and helps tone muscles, which in turn can reduce the likelihood of developing varicose veins.