Deep pressure massage is bad for varicose veins (contraindicated). Using too much pressure could cause damage to these already weak structures and could run the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Massage can help a client with varicose veins if using light pressure and light techniques such as manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), with strokes aimed at promoting circulation back to the heart.
Tips to help people with varicose veins:
- Wear compression socks or compression calf sleeves
- Put your feet up (above heart) for 5 minutes at night before going to bed, this will allow for circulation back towards the heart
- If you sit or stand for long durations, change it up – stand up every 30 minutes, shift weight or flex legs when standing, do regular exercises to help improve your circulation
- Regular exercises – walking, running, biking, lunges, pumping / rocking your feet back and forth when sitting
