Does Massage Help Varicose Veins? Here’s What The Doctors Say

Does Massage Help Varicose Veins? Here's What The Doctors Say

Massage is a great way to help relieve the symptoms of varicose veins. It increases circulation, helps bring nutrients to the muscles, and can reduce leg inflammation.

Massage also helps relax muscles and improve flexibility, making it an ideal choice for people seeking relief from varicose veins. When it comes to leg massage therapy, there are many options available — from specialized techniques to equipment that helps target specific areas of the body.

When selecting a massage therapist or technique for treating your varicose veins, always consult an experienced professional who understands how to safely and effectively treat this condition.

With the right approach and treatment plan tailored specifically for you, massage therapy could provide welcome relief from your varicose vein pain. 

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What Are Varicose Veins? 

Poor circulation and malfunctioning valves cause venous diseases. The most common venous disorders are varicose veins, ulcers, blood clots, chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

They can cause leg pain, swelling, and discoloration. Because most venous diseases are caused partly by circulation issues, vascular massage therapy is one of the interventions used in varicose vein treatment.

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that typically develop in the legs and feet. They occur when the valves in your veins weaken, causing blood to pool instead of flowing back to your heart. While varicose veins are generally harmless, they can cause aching or discomfort and affect your quality of life. 

What is Vascular Massage Therapy?

Vascular massage therapy is a type of massage that is performed on the legs to improve blood circulation. Good circulation means that oxygen and nutrients are delivered to cells all over the body, and waste products are removed from the blood.

Massaging varicose veins is expected if you massage a varicose vein because it is hurting you or causing you discomfort; you are not alone. A lot of people do that, and it is a common practice. While it will not be harmful, it will not make the vein disappear or help it get better. 

Massage therapies that aim to increase circulation and improve tissue nutrition, such as vascular and lymphatic drainage massages, benefit patients with varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency.

  • Short strokes move blood from the valves to the veins to improve circulation.
  • Light strokes move lymph fluid — water, proteins, fats, and white blood cells — into lymph vessels throughout the body to improve lymphatic drainage.

Most experts recommend light pressure techniques such as Swedish massage or acupressure for treating varicose veins. These types of massage focus on promoting relaxation and improving circulation rather than intense deep tissue techniques that could increase discomfort or worsen vein damage.

If you are looking into getting a massage specifically for your varicose veins, make sure you mention this to your therapist so they can tailor their technique accordingly! 

How Can Massage Help? 

Massage helps improve leg circulation by relieving muscle tension and increasing blood flow. This helps reduce inflammation which is associated with varicose veins.

Massage also reduces stress which can help reduce swelling associated with varicose veins.

Finally, massage helps strengthen the muscles around your legs which helps support your vein walls and improve circulation overall. 

But you should know that your massage therapist will hesitate to apply any pressure around your compromised veins or in the area served by those veins.

They certainly won’t massage varicose veins. There are a couple of reasons for this. Visible varicose veins are a sign that blood vessels are compromised. Varicose veins form when valves in the veins weaken and fail.

What Do The Experts Say? 

Most medical professionals agree that massage is safe for people with varicose veins. However, it should not be used as a substitute for standard medical treatments or medications prescribed by a doctor.

It’s’ also important to ensure you get massages from a licensed professional who understands how to work with people with varicose veins to avoid aggravating them further.

If you decide to try massage therapy for your varicose veins, discuss it with your doctor so they can monitor any changes in your symptoms over time.  

The Benefits Of Massage Therapy For Varicose Veins 

 Varicose veins are a common problem that can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort. While several treatments are available, massage can be an effective way to prevent and treat varicose veins.

However, it is essential to note that massage is not a cure-all for varicose veins. It is not recommended as a replacement for traditional treatments like compression stockings or lifestyle changes (such as increasing exercise).

Additionally, it should be noted that if you are pregnant or have poor circulation due to underlying medical conditions, you should consult your doctor before trying any massage therapy for your varicose veins. 

Who Shouldn’t Receive Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy is not suitable for all patients suffering from vein diseases. Massage therapy is not advised for patients with advanced-stage vein disease, which includes large and bulging veins, ulcerations, and discoloration.

Massage can cause already weakened veins to burst, exacerbating the condition. Massage therapy is also not recommended for people with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) because it can dislodge a clot and cause it to travel.

Massage therapy on the incorrect patient can be hazardous. If you want the safest treatment and complementary therapies, make an appointment with a board-certified vein doctor.

Conclusion

Some evidence suggests that massage may effectively improve symptoms associated with varicose veins, such as aching or discomfort. However, it should not be used as a substitute for standard medical care.

Getting massages from a licensed professional who works safely with people with varicose veins is essential. If you decide to try massage therapy for your varicose veins, discuss it with your doctor so they can monitor any changes in your symptoms over time.

Chenie Taton