Exercise is valuable tool in treating many medical conditions. Cardiovascular exercise, which causes you to break a sweat and increases your heart rate, is especially helpful in losing weight, improving your mood and strengthening your heart and lungs. Walking or running on a treadmill is one way to get cardiovascular exercise. If you suffer from unsightly or painful spider veins, exercising on a treadmill can help you get relief.
Spider Veins
Spider veins are a milder form of varicose veins. They are red- or blue-looking veins that appear close to the surface of your skin. They often resemble a spider's web, hence the name. The two main causes of spider or varicose veins are aging and pregnancy. Being overweight can contribute to the formation of varicose veins as well, because additional weight puts more pressure on your veins. Most often spider veins or varicose veins occur in your legs or feet because of the increased pressure they sustain from walking and standing.
Weight Loss
One key to treating or living with spider veins and varicose veins is losing weight. When you lose weight, your veins will have less pressure put on them, relieving some of the symptoms and easing your discomfort. An important component of weight loss is exercise. By getting more active, you not only increase the amount of calories your body is using, you get your body, specifically your legs, moving, which improves your circulation. Getting your blood moving more quickly to and from your legs can help improve the severity of your spider veins.
Treadmill
Using a treadmill is an effective way to treat your spider veins. Dr. Bob Dupper, a physician with Vein Treatment Specialists of Loveland, Colo., recommends on the practice's website that you can use 30 minutes on the treadmill five to seven times per week as a conservative therapy option for spider veins. Treadmill walking can help energize your legs while getting rid of some of your aches and pains. Get clearance from your doctor prior to starting a treadmill regimen. Ask your doctor for recommended speed and incline parameters to ensure safe treadmill usage.
Cautions
Besides checking with your doctor, there are not many cautions specific to your spider veins and the treadmill. However, there are many cautions that apply to using a treadmill. Familiarize yourself with the treadmill's controls before you press start. Especially important is figuring out where the emergency stop is. Start out slow and steady on the treadmill. Keep the speed low and the incline flat until you have a good feel for the treadmill. Pay attention to your workout. If you listen to music or watch TV while on the treadmill, make sure to keep some of your attention on the treadmill as well.
