Varicose veins are a medical condition that affects a considerable number of people around the world, and represent a health problem that goes beyond its superficial appearance. This vascular disorder, which is characterized by dilated and twisted veins, not only raises aesthetic concerns, but can also cause significant physical discomfort. From the feeling of heaviness in the legs to the risk of more serious complications, varicose veins can affect the quality of life of people who suffer from them.
Amid traditional approaches to addressing varicose, electrostimulation emerges as an innovative and effective solution. This method, which uses electrical impulses to stimulate muscles and improve blood circulation, has captured the attention of those seeking alternatives beyond conventional treatments. As technology advances, electrostimulation is positioned as a promising solution to relieve the symptoms of varicose veins and, in some cases, even reverse its effects.
In this blog, we will thoroughly explore the phenomenon of varicose, understanding its causes, symptoms and consequences. We will immerse ourselves in the fascinating world of electrostimulation, unraveling its fundamentals and examining how it can become a valuable ally in the fight against varicose veins.
Join us and also discover how Onnafit’s electrostimulation technology can offer practical and innovative solutions to address a health problem as widespread as eliminating varicose veins.
What are varicose veins and why are they a health problem?
Varicose veins are dilated, twisted veins that commonly develop in the legs and ankles. This phenomenon occurs when the one-way valves that normally direct blood flow to the heart do not function properly, causing a buildup of blood in the veins. This stagnation of blood puts pressure on the walls of the veins, causing them to dilate and become visible under the surface of the skin.
The causes of varicose are diverse and can include genetic factors, hormonal changes, pregnancy, obesity, and spending long periods of time standing or sitting. When these predisposing conditions combine, the likelihood of developing varicose veins increases.
What factors affect the appearance of varicose veins?
Genetics: Genetic predisposition plays a crucial role in the appearance of varicose. If there is a family history of this condition, a person is more likely to develop it.
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes, especially during pregnancy and menopause, can contribute to the weakening of venous walls.
Sedentary Lifestyle: Prolonged standing or sitting can hinder the efficient return of blood to the heart, thus contributing to the development of varicose.
Obesity: Excess weight puts additional pressure on the veins in the legs, increasing the risk of developing varicose.
Main symptoms of the appearance of varicose veins
Varicose veins can manifest with a variety of symptoms, the most common being:
Pain or feeling of heaviness: People with varicose often experience pain in their legs, accompanied by a feeling of heaviness.
Itching or burning: The skin around varicose may become irritable, causing itching or burning.
Nocturnal cramps: Leg cramps, especially at night, are another common manifestation.
Skin changes: Advanced varicose can lead to changes in skin color, venous ulcers and other skin problems.
Complications associated with varicose can be more serious, including the formation of blood clots, venous ulcers, and even bleeding in extreme cases. In addition to the physical impact, varicose can affect the self-esteem and quality of life of those who suffer from them. Thoroughly understanding these implications is crucial to addressing varicose veins comprehensively and seeking effective solutions, such as electrostimulation, which we will explore later in this blog.
What type of varicose veins exist?
There are manytypes of varicose veinsclassified according to their size, location and characteristics. Here we describe some of the most common types of varicose veins:
Truncular or Saphenian varicose veins:
They are the largest varicose veins and affect the main veins called saphenous. They may be visible on the surface of the skin and are often associated with smaller varicose .
Reticular veins:
They are smaller veins that are found below the surface of the skin, with a diameter larger than telangiectatic veins but smaller than truncal varicose. They often appear as thin, bluish lines.
Telangiectasias or Spider Veins:
Also known as spider veins, they are small, dilated veins that appear near the surface of the skin. They have a spiderweb-like appearance or a branching of red or blue lines.
Perforating or Communicating Varicose Veins:
They connect the superficial veins with the deep veins. Insufficiency of these valves can cause blood to accumulate in the superficial veins, contributing to the formation of varicose.
Pelvic varicose veins:
They are found in the pelvic region and may be associated with problems with the pelvic veins. They are often associated with symptoms such as pelvic pain and may require a specific treatment approach.
Secondary or Postphlebitic Varicose Veins:
They develop as a result of a previous deep vein thrombosis (DVT). They can occur after venous obstruction and affect the deep veins.
Aesthetic Varicose Veins:
Although all varicose have an aesthetic component, the term “cosmetic varicose veins” is often used to refer to those that, although they do not cause significant discomfort, are treated for cosmetic reasons.
It is essential to keep in mind that the severity of varicose can vary, and their treatment can range from conservative measures, such as lifestyle changes and the use of compression stockings, to more invasive medical procedures, such as sclerotherapy, ablation laser and, in more advanced cases, surgery. The appropriate treatment will depend on the type and severity of the varicose veins, as well as the symptoms they present. It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for a diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
Electrostimulation to treat varicose veins
ElectrostimulationIt is a technique that uses low-intensity electrical currents to stimulate muscles and improve various physiological functions. In the context of the treatment of varicose, electrostimulation focuses on activating and strengthening the leg muscles, thus promoting better blood circulation and relieving the symptoms associated with the appearance of varicose veins.
“This electrical stimulation activates the muscles, leading to a significant improvement in blood flow”.
In an electrostimulation treatment session, the muscles experience electrical impulses that generate controlled and deep muscle contractions. This electrical stimulation activates the muscles, resulting in a significant improvement in blood flow. This process facilitates venous return and helps reduce pressure on the veins affected by varicose veins.
But electrostimulation is not only used to treat the visible symptoms of varicose, it also addresses the underlying cause by strengthening muscles, improving circulation and promoting a healthier venous system.
What benefits does electrostimulation provide?
The electrostimulation has countless advantages both physically and in terms of health in general, but, in this case, we are going to focus on the benefit of electrostimulation in relation to varicose veins:
Improved Circulation: Electrostimulation promotes blood circulation by stimulating muscle contraction and relaxation, which facilitates venous return and reduces vascular congestion.
Muscle Strengthening: By strengthening the leg muscles, electrostimulation contributes to a more efficient venous system, reducing pressure on the veins and preventing the formation of varicose veins.
Reducing Feelings of Heaviness: Improved blood circulation and muscle strengthening help relieve the feeling of heaviness in the legs, one of the common symptoms associated with varicose veins.
Prevention of Complications: By addressing the underlying cause of varicose veins, electrostimulation can help prevent more serious complications, such as the formation of blood clots and venous ulcers.
Complement to Other Treatments: Electrostimulation can be used in a complementary way to other medical treatments, such as pressotherapy, offering a comprehensive perspective for the management of varicose veins.
How does Onnafit Electrostimulation work on Varicose Veins?
Onnafit electrostimulation is used to treat varicose veins in an effective, painless and safe way.
This system is based on improving blood circulation and strengthening the leg muscles. Its mechanism of action directly addresses the causes and symptoms of varicose veins, offering a non-invasive and effective alternative. In this article, we will explore in detail how this technique operates, backed by scientific studies confirming its effectiveness.
Benefits of using Onnafit to treat varicose veins
The electrical impulses ofOnnafit electrostimulation effectively activates the leg muscles. This controlled stimulation induces muscle contractions that improve venous circulation by facilitating the efficient return of blood to the heart.
By activating the leg muscles, electrostimulation helps reduce venous congestion, reducing pressure on the veins and preventing the formation of varicose veins.
The repetition of muscle contractions strengthens the walls of the veins, improving their elasticity and resistance. This helps prevent excessive dilation of the veins and reduces the likelihood of varicose veins developing.
In addition, Onnafit electrostimulation facilitates blood flow by stimulating muscle action, preventing blood accumulation in certain areas and promoting more uniform circulation.
A compact system that does not take up space in your beauty center
It is handsfree: The Onnafit EMS system is handsfree, that is, hands-free, which means that the technician can apply the treatment in a programmed manner, and without the need to constantly manipulate the client during the treatment.
Wherever you want: Thanks to the fact that it is compact and wireless, you can apply the treatment anywhere.
Transportable and Ergonomic: It does not take up space, so you can have it anywhere in your aesthetic clinic.
It has all safety certifications: From the FDA, ANVISA, INVIMA, CE, or the Spanish Medicines Agency, Onnafit complies with all product and safety laws according to the latest MDR law.
Conclusion
In this detailed examination of how electrostimulation can be applied to the treatment of varicose veins, we have uncovered a modern and highly effective method for managing this vascular condition.
Summarizing the advantages that electrostimulation offers for varicose vein care, its capacity to enhance blood flow, strengthen the leg muscles, and ease the discomfort associated with this issue stands out. Electrostimulation not only targets the visible signs of varicose veins, but also addresses the underlying cause by reinforcing the vascular system.
Frequently asked questions about electrostimulation of varicose veins
Can electrostimulation prevent varicose veins?
Electrostimulation may improve circulation and reduce the risk of developing varicose veins in people with a predisposition, but it cannot guarantee prevention.
Are there any side effects?
Electrostimulation is usually well-tolerated. However, some people may experience:
Skin irritation or redness
Mild discomfort from the electrical impulses If you experience severe discomfort, stop the treatment and consult a healthcare provider.
Ems foot massager for varicose veins
The EMS Foot Massager uses low-frequency electrical impulses to stimulate the muscles in the feet and legs, causing contractions similar to those that occur during physical movement. This stimulation helps activate venous circulation, facilitating blood flow back to the heart and reducing fluid buildup in the lower limbs. Additionally, this process helps alleviate muscle fatigue, swelling, and the heavy leg sensation commonly experienced by those with varicose veins.
Benefits of the EMS Foot Massager for Varicose Veins
Regular use of an EMS Foot Massager can provide multiple benefits for individuals suffering from varicose veins:
Improves blood circulation: By stimulating the muscles in the feet and legs, it promotes blood flow and prevents blood pooling in the veins.
Relieves pain and the sensation of heavy legs: Electrical stimulation helps relax the muscles and improve tissue oxygenation, providing relief to those experiencing pain or discomfort due to varicose veins.
Helps prevent new varicose veins: By improving circulation and reducing venous pressure, it can minimize the risk of developing new varicose veins over time.
Varicose veins medical devices
For managing varicose veins, the most common medical devices include compression stockings, which help improve circulation and reduce symptoms like swelling and discomfort. Other supportive tools include intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) devices, often used to stimulate blood flow in people with chronic venous issues, and leg elevation wedges that assist in relieving pressure from the lower limbs.
When it comes to treatment, specialists may use minimally invasive devices such as Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT), Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), Sclerotherapy, VenaSeal™, or Mechanochemical Ablation (MOCA). These procedures aim to close or remove faulty veins with minimal discomfort and quick recovery, and are chosen based on the severity and location of the varicose veins.
Which body region should be avoided during myofascial release techniques?
During myofascial release, certain body areas should be avoided or approached with caution due to the presence of vital structures or sensitivity. Here’s a quick guide:
Areas to Avoid:
Front of the neck (anterior cervical region)
Contains the carotid arteries, trachea, and other delicate structures.
Abdomen (especially deep pressure)
Risk of affecting internal organs if not done properly.
Armpit (axilla)
Contains lymph nodes, nerves, and blood vessels.
Groin area (inguinal region)
Sensitive structures, including major blood vessels and nerves.
Over bone protrusions or joints
Avoid direct deep pressure on bones like the spine, knees, or elbows.
Safer Areas for Myofascial Release:
Back (excluding spine)
Shoulders
Glutes
Quads, hamstrings, calves
Plantar fascia (bottom of feet)
Forearms
Always use gentle, sustained pressure, and when in doubt, consult a physical therapist or trained professional to ensure you’re applying the technique safely and effectively.
Can massage therapy help varicose veins?
Massage therapy can help alleviate some symptoms of varicose veins, such as heaviness, swelling or discomfort, by improving circulation and promoting lymphatic drainage. However, it does not eliminate the veins or address their root cause, which is related to weakened vein valves. Massage should be gentle and avoid direct pressure on visible veins to prevent irritation or complications. It’s best used as a complementary relief method, not a replacement for medical treatment.
Can you use a tens machine on varicose veins?
TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) devices are commonly used to relieve muscle pain and improve circulation through mild electrical impulses. However, they are not intended to treat the root cause of varicose veins — weakened vein valves that affect blood flow. While TENS can ease discomfort or heaviness in the legs, it should never be applied directly over varicose veins or swollen areas.
Instead, it can be used on nearby muscles, like the calves or thighs, to gently support circulation. For safer and more effective results, Onnafit recommends specialized electrostimulation protocols for vascular health, complemented by pressotherapy, which enhances lymphatic drainage and venous return naturally and non-invasively.
How many types of varicose veins are there?
Varicose veins vary in appearance, location, and severity, and understanding their type is key to choosing the right treatment. They can range from small, superficial veins to larger, more prominent ones caused by poor valve function and blood reflux.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
By appearance:
Spider veins (telangiectasias) – fine, red or blue lines on the skin.
Reticular veins – slightly larger, bluish veins under the skin.
Varicose veins – thick, bulging veins often linked to the saphenous system.
By location:
Superficial veins – close to the skin.
Deep veins – located within the muscles.
Perforator veins – connect the superficial and deep systems.
By severity (CEAP classification):
C0: no visible signs.
C1–C2: spider or varicose veins.
C3–C6: swelling, skin changes, or venous ulcers.
Knowing which type you have allows for personalized treatment, from compression therapy to laser procedures or surgery, ensuring better results and long-term relief.
Massager for varicose veins in legs
When it comes to managing the discomfort of varicose veins, leg-massagers can play a valuable supporting role. These devices use gentle mechanical or electrical stimulation to promote improved circulation, reduce fluid retention and relieve the heavy, achy sensations that often accompany venous insufficiency. Ideally used in conjunction with other therapies and compression garments, a leg massager designed for varicose-vein support offers these benefits:
Enhanced venous return: By rhythmically compressing or stimulating the calves and lower legs, the massager helps move blood toward the heart, reducing pooling in superficial veins.
Reduced swelling & fluid build-up: The stimulation helps activate the muscular pump and lymphatic flow, which can ease the feeling of heaviness and decrease leg puffiness.
Relief of discomfort and fatigue: For many people, the massager alleviates sensations of tired legs and minor cramps between treatments.
Complementary approach: While a massager does not replace medical treatments like compression therapy, sclerotherapy or ablation for varicose veins, it serves as a non-invasive adjunct that supports longer-term vein health.
Usage tips: • Choose a device with settings appropriate for vascular use — moderate intensity, calf/ankle attachments and safe for frequent use. • Avoid applying strong direct pressure or vibration over visible, bulging veins or swollen skin areas: instead, target nearby muscles (for example: calves and thighs) so circulation is supported without aggravating fragile tissue. • Combine usage with elevation of the legs after use and daily compression stockings if prescribed. • Consistency matters: 10-20 minutes per day of use often delivers best supportive benefits.
By incorporating a leg massager into your regimen, you can enhance circulation, ease symptoms and reinforce the vascular support provided by the electro-stimulation and compression modalities offered by Onnafit.
Can vibration machines cause spider veins?
Current evidence does not show that vibration machines directly cause spider veins. In fact, when used correctly, whole-body vibration can improve circulation, stimulate muscle pumping, and support lymphatic flow. However, spider veins are mainly related to factors such as genetics, hormones, prolonged standing or sitting, and underlying venous insufficiency—not to vibration platforms.
That said, improper use (very high intensity, long uncontrolled sessions, or placing the machine directly on areas with visible veins) could theoretically increase superficial pressure and make existing spider veins more noticeable. This is not a proven risk, but a reason to use vibration devices with moderation and good technique.
For people with venous insufficiency or significant varicose veins, it’s best to check with a vein specialist before starting vibration training. Beginning with low frequencies and avoiding direct pressure on sensitive areas is recommended.
Anais
Head of Marketing at Onnafit - Content Strategy - Branding - Community Manager & Social Ads - Growth Hacker thinking - Email Marketing - SEO & SEM - Project & Content Manager - WordPress & Web Designer.