Running and Varicose Veins

Exercising with Varicose Veins

Staying active is prescribed as one of the most beneficial lifestyle changes someone can make to control varicose veins. Considering this, it might not be surprising so many Americans are struggling with this form of vein disease. About one-quarter of Americans have varicose veins, and according to a recent survey published in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine, only five percent of Americans engage in some sort of vigorous activities such as running every day.

Developing a strong workout routine might help reduce your risk of varicose veins, and may even help reduce the severity of existing vein problems. Cardiovascular activities such as walking, running, biking and swimming promote blood circulation and are especially great for treating varicose veins.

However, high-impact activities like running come with their own risks, and can even promote swelling in the legs if you are not careful. Here are a few tips to consider when using exercise to reduce your risk of varicose veins:

  • Running is a high-impact activity, but you can lessen the shock into your feet and legs by running on a local trail or at the beach on the sand. If you do run at the beach, be sure to wear rubber-soled shoes to prevent shells from cutting your feet.
  • Wear compression stockings while working out. These will further promote blood flow and can reduce the level of fatigue in your legs. Wearing compression stockings while you are not working out can also help in the treatment of varicose veins.
  • Keep in touch with your vein doctor about the severity of your condition. If you begin exercising regularly and feel like your legs are swelling or that your varicose veins are becoming worse, contact Dr. Schoenhaus.

Exercising regularly can prevent varicose veins from becoming worse, and may even help prevent them from developing altogether. Exercise enhances blood flow and promotes weight loss, which reduces pressure on the legs and thus further reduces your risk of varicose veins. Even when you aren’t exercising you can take steps to prevent varicose veins, such as elevating your legs and not crossing your legs while sitting. When combined with other treatment methods, exercising regularly may help reduce your varicose veins.

Dr. Jason Gold, DPM, FACFAS

Dr. Jason Gold, DPM, FACFAS, is a podiatrist at the Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center in Boca Raton, FL, and Boynton Beach, FL. He has over 20 years of experience and specializes in foot and ankle conditions like bunions, fat pad atrophy, and sports medicine. Dr. Jason holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Maryland, College Park, and he earned his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia. He's one of only 10 board-certified Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Surgeons in Palm Beach County. Dr. Gold has been featured in highly authoritative publications like HuffPost, PureWow, and Yahoo!

Dr. Jodi Schoenhaus , DPM - Podiatrist in Boca Raton, FL

Dr. Jodi Schoenhaus DPM, RPhs, FACFAS

Dr. Jodi Schoenhaus, DPM, RPhs, FACFAS, is a podiatrist at the Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center in Boca Raton, FL, and Boynton Beach, FL. She has over 20 years of experience and specializes in foot, ankle, and leg vein conditions like spider and varicose veins and sclerotherapy. Dr. Jodi holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Michigan, and she earned his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia. Dr. Schoenhaus has performed FDA-approved research and has been published in the National Library of Medicine and PubMed. Dr. Jodi has been featured in highly authoritative publications like Cosmopolitan, Lifehacker, Parade, New York Post, and Yahoo!, among others.