Varicose veins are a common condition that affects many people, especially those who stand or sit for long periods. When experiencing discomfort and possible complications, it is essential to establish an appropriate exercise regimen to preserve the well-being of our legs and relieve the symptoms associated with dilated and twisted veins.
Therefore, in this article we are going to tell you what are the prohibited exercises when you have varicose veins and some recommended.
Prohibited exercises when you have varicose veins
To prevent exacerbation of symptoms and minimize the likelihood of complications, it is advisable to avoid specific exercises if you have varicose veins. Among the exercises included are the following:
- Engage in activities that involve jumping or sudden movements Impact can put additional stress on the veins, which could make varicose veins worse. Similarly, lifting heavy weights with excessive force can raise abdominal pressure and put pressure on the veins located in the legs.
- To prevent any adverse effects on varicose veins, it is advisable to avoid intense leg exercises, such as deep squats and heavy lunges, which put significant pressure on the legs. Similarly, repetitive, high-impact exercises, such as running on unforgiving surfaces or performing vigorous aerobic exercise, can exacerbate varicose vein symptoms by placing undue stress on the veins.
- To optimize venous return and relieve pressure on leg veins, it is advisable to refrain from prolonged standing activities, in addition to the aforementioned exercises.
It is essential to recognize that each individual is unique and that the recommendations given may differ depending on the severity of the varicose veins and the instructions provided by the doctor.
Recommendations
People who have varicose veins may find that performing low-impact exercises, such as walking, swimming or cycling, can be advantageous as they help improve blood circulation and strengthen leg muscles without putting excessive strain on the veins. Low-impact exercises are highly recommended for these people.
Fortunately, people with varicose veins have access to a variety of low-impact exercises that offer safety and benefits. Some of these exercises include:
- Taking a calm walk is a form of exercise that offers numerous benefits, such as improving blood flow and strengthening the muscles of the lower extremities, while avoiding excessive tension on the veins.
- Taking a dip in the pool is an excellent option, as the buoyancy of water relieves pressure on the legs, allowing for a full-body workout.
- Practicing cycling, whether outdoors or on a stationary bike, offers a beneficial way to exercise your legs and avoid strain on your veins.
- Incorporate yoga and stretching Adding to your routine not only improves flexibility and circulation, but also helps relieve tension in your leg muscles.
Guidelines to keep in mind
Engaging in regular physical activity can be extremely advantageous for people experiencing the discomfort of varicose veins. Low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming and cycling are highly recommended as they effectively improve blood circulation, strengthen leg muscles and relieve related symptoms. These activities place minimal stress on the veins, making them particularly beneficial.
To properly care for varicose veins, it is essential not only to refrain from performing specific exercises and perform low-impact alternatives, but also to comply with these general guidelines.
- It's fundamental keep a healthy weight to avoid additional stress on the veins.
- Standing or sitting for long periods of time It can have a negative impact on your veins, so it's important to take regular breaks and perform leg movements and stretches if you have a job or lifestyle that requires long periods of immobility.
- Improve circulation by elevating your legs while you rest. Improve blood flow and reduce leg swelling by wearing compression stockings.
It is highly recommended to perform any form of physical activity that requires movement of the extremities. This includes exercises that encourage rhythmic contractions of the muscles of the lower extremities. Dr. Antonio Fernández Brito, prestigious aesthetic doctor and director of the Dr. Varices phlebology clinic in Madrid, suggests various activities such as standing on tiptoe, moving the toes, flexing and rotating the feet, and performing pedaling movements. .
According to Alejandro Moro, vascular surgeon at the Quirón Hospital in La Coruña, walking, swimming and cycling are beneficial activities. Additionally, Fernández Brito suggests incorporating running into your exercise routine.
According to Moro, when it comes to varicose veins, swimming or aquagym are the optimal physical activities. The combination of water and muscle movement creates a dual effect that stimulates blood flow. On the other hand, Walking puts pressure on the bottom of the foot, which also helps circulation.
On the other hand, although walking has numerous advantages, Fernández Brito warns against walking on the beach when it is very hot, as it can have the opposite effect. "Heat causes the veins to expand, which can aggravate the problem and intensify the symptoms," he warns. Román Escudero shares this sentiment but also highlights the positive aspects, highlighting that "The benefit of walking on the beach lies in the massage effect and the refreshing sensation of the sea water."
According to Dr. Milagros Oyarzabal Arocena, a family doctor at the Alicante Hospital, she highlights that activities such as yoga or rhythmic gymnastics can effectively promote circulation by mobilizing the blood accumulated in the thighs.
Fernández Brito highlights the importance of incorporating exercises into the routine, as well as taking precautions such as avoiding prolonged periods of standing or sitting, elevating the feet above head level, wearing compression stockings and staying away from heat in the affected areas.
I hope that with this information you can learn more about the prohibited exercises for people who have varicose veins and what general recommendations you should take into account.