Varicose Veins

Treatment of Chronic Venous Disease

Prevention of Chronic Venous Disease

Chronic Venous Insufficiency

2/14/2024

What are the Benefits of Walking for Varicose Veins

Walking is a simple and accessible form of exercise that offers numerous benefits for overall health and well-being. When it comes to managing varicose veins, walking is particularly beneficial. Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that usually appear in the legs and can cause discomfort and aesthetic concerns. Engaging in regular walking can relieve symptoms and improve the condition of varicose veins in several ways.1

walking blood flow

Enhanced blood flow and circulation throughout your body can prevent swelling and discomfort of varicose veins

Firstly, walking promotes better circulation throughout the body, including the legs. Varicose veins occur when the valves in the veins weaken or become damaged, leading to blood pooling and increased pressure. Walking helps to stimulate blood flow, preventing blood from stagnating in the veins and reducing swelling and discomfort associated with varicose veins.2 By increasing circulation, walking also assists in delivering oxygen and essential nutrients to the affected areas, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.

 

weight loss

Influence positively weight management goals to lessen the pressure on varicose veins

Another advantage of walking for varicose veins is its impact on weight management.3 Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for individuals with varicose veins, as excess weight can put additional strain on the veins and worsen the condition. Walking is a low-impact exercise that aids in calorie burning and weight loss, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to shed excess pounds. By reducing body weight, walking reduces the load on the veins, easing pressure and improving blood flow.4

 

strong calf muscles

Strengthening calf muscles improves vein function

Walking is also beneficial for strengthening the calf muscles, which play a vital role in supporting the veins. When the calf muscles contract during walking, they act as a pump, pushing blood upward and against gravity, thus assisting the proper functioning of the veins. Stronger calf muscles provide better support to the veins and help prevent blood from pooling and causing further damage. Regular walking helps tone and strengthen these muscles, enhancing their efficiency and reducing the risk of varicose veins worsening.4

To conclude, walking is a simple way to manage varicose veins. By promoting circulation, aiding weight management, strengthening calf muscles, and improving mental well-being, walking offers a multitude of benefits for individuals with varicose veins. Incorporating regular walks into one's routine can lead to improved vein health, reduced symptoms, and an enhanced overall quality of life. So, if you are experiencing any CVD symptoms, please remember to consult a health care professional to check treatment options such as venoactive drugs and put on your walking shoes and start taking steps towards healthier veins today!

REFERENCES

  1. Dunstan DW, Dogra S, Carter SE, Owen N. Sit less and move more for cardiovascular health: emerging insights and opportunities. Nat Rev Cardiol. 2021;18(9):637-648.
  2. Eifell RKG, Ashour HYA, Heslop PS, Walker DJ, Lees TA. Association of 24-hour activity levels with the clinical severity of chronic venous disease. J Vasc Surg. 2006;44(3):580-587.
  3. Mayo Clinic. Varicose veins - symptoms and causes. 2019. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/varicose-veins/symptoms-causes/syc-20350643.
  4. Araujo DN, Ribeiro CT, Maciel AC, Bruno SS, Fregonezi GA, Dias FA. Physical exercise for the treatment of non‐ulcerated chronic venous insufficiency. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016;12(12):CD010637

2024