Do you often experience heavy, aching legs or visibly swollen veins that make standing for long hours uncomfortable? Varicose veins arise from weakened or damaged valves within the veins, leading to blood pooling and increased pressure. The common causes are poor blood circulation, weak vein walls, and extended sitting or standing. They affect the appearance of your legs and increase discomfort, swelling, and fatigue. While medical treatments and lifestyle changes help, acupressure points for varicose veins are a proven non-invasive way to stimulate blood flow, relieve pain, and reduce swelling.
By activating the circulatory system, acupressure treatment for varicose veins strengthens vein function, and promotes relaxation, making it a helpful complementary therapy. The best part? Acupressure can be done at home without special equipment for daily relief. In this blog, we’ll explore six effective acupressure points for varicose veins that reduce varicose vein symptoms, boost blood flow, and naturally restore your legs' comfort. So, let’s begin!
Table Of Contents
1. Where Is The Acupressure Point For Varicose Veins? 6 Acupressure Points
2. Does Acupressure Treat Varicose Veins?
3. The Final Say
4. FAQs
5. References
6 Most Effective Acupressure Points for Varicose Veins
Varicose veins result in pain, swelling, cramping, and leg heaviness. To reduce these symptoms and improve circulation, acupressure addresses these concerns by applying pressure to specific points along the body's meridians to stimulate the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood.
Try these acupressure points for varicose veins to reduce discomfort:
1. Spleen 6 (SP6)
Acupressure practitioners consider this point among the most effective ones for treating varicose veins. The point where you locate this acupressure is on the inner leg near your ankle, which is used to treat different blood circulation disorders like varicose veins. The SP6 point stands out for its specialisation in spleen, liver, and kidney meridian balance, strengthening blood circulation and maintaining fluid equilibrium.
Through stimulation of SP6, people achieve better blood circulation in their legs and a reduction in swelling and pain.
Tip to Perform:
- Locate SP6 by placing four fingers above your inner ankle bone.
- Apply firm, steady pressure with your thumb or index finger for 2-3 minutes, massaging in a circular motion. Repeat on the other leg.
- Regular stimulation of this point helps improve circulation and reduce leg discomfort.
2. Spleen 12 (SP12)
The SP12 body point is on the inner thigh midway between the knee and groin. It facilitates lower limb lymphatic drainage and prevents blockages. The point promotes fluid flow and helps diminish swelling from varicose veins.
Tip to Perform:
- Apply firm, steady pressure with your fingertips for 2-3 minutes, massaging in a circular motion. Repeat on the other leg.
- This point is beneficial for addressing swelling and heaviness in the legs.
3. Stomach 36 (ST36)
The point known as ST36 exists below the kneecap on the outer side of the leg at what is regarded as the "leg three miles" location. ST36 stimulation improves better blood flow and decreases fatigue, which can affect people with varicose veins.
Tip to Perform:
- Locate ST36 by placing four fingers below the kneecap and one finger width to the outside of the shinbone.
- Apply steady yet gentle pressure with your thumb or index finger for 2-3 minutes, massaging in a circular motion.
- Daily stimulation of this point improves leg strength and reduces fatigue.
4. Bladder 40 (BL40)
BL40 can treat lower limb stagnation along with heat buildup as practitioners find it within the back knee crease section. The point helps improve blood flow while simultaneously reducing the pain which varicose veins produce.
Tip to Perform:
- Locate BL40 by bending your knee slightly and finding the centre of the crease behind the knee.
- Apply firm, steady pressure with your clean thumb or index finger for nearly 2-3 minutes.
- This point is beneficial for addressing pain and discomfort in the legs.
5. Liver 3 (LV3)
LV3 controls the smooth distribution of Qi and blood from the area that intersects between the big and second toes.
Tip to Perform:
- Locate LV3 by finding the depression between the big toe and the second toe.
- Apply firm, steady thumb pressure for 2-3 minutes, massaging in a circular motion. Repeat on the other foot.
- This point is beneficial for addressing pain and discomfort in the feet and legs.
6. Liver 5 (LV5)
LV5 provides benefits by clearing stagnation and supporting smooth circulation because it exists on the inner aspect of the lower leg beyond the ankle. Applied pressure on this point smooths blood circulation, reducing both leg swelling and varicose vein symptoms.
Tip to Perform:
- People should locate LV5 by pressing the area directly above the inner ankle bone in the indentation between the shinbone and the Achilles tendon.
- You should apply continuous firm pressure using your index finger or thumb at the LV5 point in circular massage movements for 2-3 minutes.
This point is particularly helpful for addressing swelling and heaviness in the legs.
Also Read: 5 Acupressure Points For Belly Fat Loss & How They Work
Does Acupressure Treat Varicose Veins?
The application of acupressure provides relief from varicose vein symptoms. Here are the steps through which acupressure minimises varicose veins:
- Acupressure activates points on the body which improves blood circulation thus treating the various symptoms of varicose veins such as heavy feeling and pain and swelling.
- Applied properly, several specific acupressure points help minimise the pain as well as discomfort associated with varicose veins.
- Acupressure stimulates relaxation through body point stimulation, making it possible to indirectly handle symptoms by decreasing tension and stress.
Note: Acupressure stands as an effective method for symptom management of varicose veins but does not function as a treatment for curing the condition. Acupressure does not have the ability to fix swollen veins which develop from damaged valves because such damage cannot be repaired through this approach.
Also Read: 10 Best Acupressure Points For Weight Loss
The Final Say
So, consider acupressure points for varicose veins a helpful sidekick. They can ease discomfort and boost circulation, making your legs feel better. If you are curious, try it out with a skilled practitioner and pay close attention to how your body responds. It's all about finding the combination of varicose vein treatments that keeps you comfortable and healthy.
FAQs
1. What acupressure points increase blood circulation?
Pressing Spleen 6 on your inner leg, combined with activating Stomach 36 below your kneecap, will enhance blood circulation. As you apply light force to these particular areas, your blood circulation improves, similar to clearing congestion in a congested street.
2. What are the leg acupressure points for varicose veins?
Leg points become the most suitable targets for the treatment of varicose veins. The points "Spleen 10" (located on your inner thigh) and "Bladder 40" (placed behind your knee) are preferred during treatment. The targeted areas help patients experience increased comfort as they benefit their blood flow particularly in their lower limbs.
3. How to maximise the effects of acupressure for varicose veins?
Consistency is key! Regular, gentle pressure is better than one strong push. Combine acupressure with other healthy habits, like staying active and uplifting your legs. Also, staying hydrated helps your blood flow better.
4. How to decide on acupressure treatment for varicose veins?
To decide on acupressure treatment for varicose veins, consider its potential benefits in improving blood flow and reducing symptoms, as some studies suggest it can be a useful adjunct therapy alongside conventional treatments. However, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional to evaluate its effectiveness and suitability for your specific condition, as evidence is mixed and more research is needed.
References
- https://www.pristyncare.com/blog/what-are-the-acupressure-points-for-varicose-veins-pc0578/
- https://www.pulleychiropractic.com/improve-varicose-veins-and-spider-veins-with-acupuncture/
- https://www.urban-wellness.ca/what-causes-varicose-veins-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them/
- https://www.bodhsara.com/acupuncture-for-varicose-veins
About ToneOp Fit
ToneOp Fit is a platform dedicated to improving and maintaining good health through a comprehensive range of goal-oriented health plans with up to 3 Coach support. With a range of Weight Management, Medical Condition, Detox Plans, and Face Yoga Plans, the app also provides premium health trackers, recipes and health content. Get customised diet, fitness, naturopathy & yoga plans and transform yourself with ToneOp.
