Re: Pumping exercise for Varicose Veins

Hi,

I know some people experienced significant relief from varicose veins in the legs by doing this simple exercise on a daily basis: facing the stairs (at home, work, anywhere), stand on the first stair so you can easily lower your heels below the stair level. Then gently raise your heels above the stair lewel, and go back down below the stair level, etc.

Do as many repetitions of this "pumping" exercise as comfortable. You can do this several times a day. This will help pump the venous blood up by tightening the muscles (calf muscels in particular) around the leg veins for natural support. Don't exercise to the point of pain, because then you'll have to skip a day or two to recover. Just go gently and increase the number of repetitions gradually.

Another exercise you can add is the yoga posture where you lie on a blanket with your legs resting against a wall. Choose the leg angle that's comfortable to hold in a relaxed manner for 15-20 minutes (or as long as comfortable). It doesn't have to be a 90' angle. You can also place your feet on the edge of your bed instead of the wall if you want a gentler angle. In this inverted position, the force of gravity will help the venous blood flow down towards the heart effortlessly.

Alternating sitting activities with brief walks, "pumping", and inverted leg positions several times per day should be a helpful routine.

Best wishes,
Chetana