How Massage Therapy Can Help with Varicose & Spider Veins

What Are Varicose and Spider Veins?

If you've ever noticed twisted, bulging veins on the legs or fine, web-like lines just under the surface of your skin, you're not alone. Varicose veins and spider veins affect millions of people—especially women—and are most commonly found in the legs due to gravity and pressure on the lower body.

• Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen veins that often appear blue or dark purple. They may cause aching, heaviness, or discomfort.
• Spider veins are smaller, red or purple veins that look like a spiderweb or branches. They're typically painless but can still be a cosmetic concern.

Both conditions are related to poor circulation and weakened vein walls or valves. Contributing factors include prolonged standing or sitting, pregnancy, aging, genetics, and obesity.

How Massage Therapy Can Help

Massage therapy cannot eliminate varicose or spider veins—but it can improve symptoms, reduce discomfort, and support better circulation when done safely and thoughtfully. At Spa Del Rio, we approach every massage with care, especially when working with clients who experience vein-related concerns.

Here’s how massage may help:

• Stimulates blood flow: Gentle massage techniques can encourage healthy circulation, which reduces blood pooling in the legs—a major factor in vein swelling and pressure.
• Eases leg fatigue and heaviness: Clients with varicose veins often describe a tired, heavy feeling in their legs. A skilled massage therapist can relieve this tension and restore a sense of lightness.
• Reduces swelling: Lymphatic drainage or light effleurage massage can help reduce mild swelling in the ankles and calves, often associated with varicose vein discomfort.
• Relaxes surrounding muscles: Tight muscles can compress veins further, exacerbating symptoms. Massage helps soften these tissues and restore natural flow.

Safety First: What to Know Before Booking

Massage around areas with visible varicose veins should be approached with caution. At Spa Del Rio, we take these steps:

• Avoid direct pressure on bulging veins
• Focus on promoting circulation above and below the affected area
• Use gentle, rhythmic strokes (no deep tissue on or near affected veins)
• If there’s clotting risk, inflammation, or tenderness, we may recommend consulting your doctor first

Note: If you’ve been diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or have active clotting issues, massage is not recommended until cleared by a healthcare provider.

Best Types of Massage for Vein Health

If you’re looking to support your vascular health, these massage techniques may help:

• Lymphatic Drainage Massage: Helps move stagnant fluid and reduce swelling. Great for early-stage varicose vein support or post-surgery.
• Swedish Massage: Gentle, flowing strokes help improve circulation without putting too much pressure on sensitive areas.
• Reflexology: Stimulating the feet and lower legs can promote balance and improve blood flow throughout the body.



Empowering Your Legs—Naturally

Varicose and spider veins are incredibly common, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with discomfort. At Spa Del Rio, we take a personalized approach—helping clients feel better in their bodies, one massage at a time.

Pair your treatment with healthy habits like elevating your legs, wearing compression socks, staying hydrated, and moving regularly to enhance the effects of your massage.