Although most people believe that jobs with a lot of standing can lead to varicose veins, that’s not the end to end all. People who have a family history of varicose veins, those who are obese, or sit all day long also run the risk of developing varicose veins. With this said, there are many other ways that your veins can become aggravated and that includes how you workout!
If you exercise often, you should know there are steps you can take to avoid developing varicose veins.
Go Slow and Avoid Unnecessary Impact:
If you are new to working out or being involved in exercise training, high-impact workouts can lead to various health conditions including varicose veins. If you are a runner and spend your time on hard surfaces, such as concrete, you are adding a great deal of impact in your exercise. You should wear compression stockings or compression suits and try to stick to softer running surfaces. The idea is to improve your overall blood flow from your legs and decrease the risks of swelling, aches, and pains.
If you cannot handle running or other high-impact exercising routines, try walking. Walking is a safer alternative and will reduce the stress and strain on your body. Whether a runner or not, walking offer many great benefits, including increased blood circulation. If your job requires hours of sitting, take a break and go for a walk, take the stairs instead of the elevator, and discover how helpful these actions can be. If walking is out of the question because you already suffer from varicose veins, try rotating your ankles and rocking your legs back and forth to increase blood circulation. A
While at The Gym:
Working out and Varicose Veins
You can still get a great workout without worrying about causing stress and strain to your body. Your gym has many alternatives that you should take advantage of. Try riding a
stationary bike, which is low-impact but will help you burn off those calories while increasing your blood flow.
Another great alternative at the gym is using the swimming pool, which is an excellent form of exercise. You will get a great workout without running the risk of developing varicose veins. Swimming has always been a great form of exercise for your entire body and will place our legs in a horizontal position. The water can reduce the pull of gravity and the cool element of the water will soothe any discomforts that are associated with varicose veins.
If weightlifting is your thing, be advised that this is as strenuous as running and can prevent your blood flowing properly from your legs to your heart. Restricting the flow of blood will cause your blood to pool, causing your veins to enlarge thus leading to varicose veins. Unless you are a seasoned weightlifter and know what you should and should not do, stay away from lifting heavy weights. Lifting heavy objects will lead to strain and increase abdominal pressure. Lunges, squats, sit-ups, and other similar exercises can lead to stress on your veins. Some forms of yoga can also potentially lead to varicose vein issues.
Total Fitness Is Not the End All:
If you already suffer from varicose veins, consider changing your workout. Although some diets and exercises can help to reduce the risk of varicose veins, none of these activities will prevent varicose veins or solve your pre-existing varicose vein issues. A good diet and sensible exercises can improve your condition and provide pain relief if done properly.
If you are suffering from the pain of varicose veins or simply want to learn more about the subject, read up and learn about diet and exercise routines that are best for your body. Schedule an appointment with your vein specialist and find out what you can do to improve your condition. Your specialist will be glad to go over a good diet and what exercises can help alleviate your symptoms. If you are experiencing varicose veins, give us a call today to schedule your FREE consultation! 858-412-3353