Varicose veins are swollen, twisted, raised veins that develop most often in your legs as a result of compromised circulation. The United States Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women's Health estimates that about half of all people in the U.S. over age 50 have varicose veins.
Walking
WomensHealth, a website of the U.S. Office on Women's Health, explains that low-impact exercise, such as walking, promotes better circulation in your legs and also helps you build muscle strength, which can contribute to better vein health. If you do not feel pain in your legs, you can escalate your walking exercise to jogging or running. Consult your doctor to be sure your condition can withstand the higher-impact workout.
Flexing
Leg and foot flexing can increase circulation in your legs even when you are sitting down. Online resource Varicose-Help explains that you can do these exercises almost anywhere and they can prevent blood from pooling in the legs, a condition that occurs when you stand or sit in one position for long periods of time. Sitting in a chair, hold your legs out straight in front of you. First, make small circles with your feet and then flex them back and forth. After you have worked on your feet, alternately bend and flex your legs back and forth from the knees. Do these exercises as often as desired when you are sitting.
Calf Stretches
Stretch your calves to strengthen your muscles so that your muscles will be able to pump blood away from your legs. You can exercise your calves in several ways, one of which just requires a wall or couch to lend support. Stand facing the wall or other support structure with both feet together. Step about a shoulder's width ahead with one foot, with your feet and body still facing the wall. Bend the knee of the front foot, keeping your back leg straight. Place your hands on the wall for support. You should feel a stretch in your back calf, but no pain. Hold the position for 20 seconds, then reverse your leg position in order to stretch out the other leg.
Toe or calf raises can also be beneficial for vein health. Stand on a step of your staircase, using the bannister for support if needed. Drop your feet so that your heels are below the step. Hold for a count of three, and come back up. Try to work up to 40 repetitions daily---not necessarily all at one time---to keep your circulation on track.
