Varicose veins cannot be recovered by exercise. The vast majority of varicose veins are irreversible and only those that develop during pregnancy have the potential to recover after delivery. Varicose veins are caused by a combination of impaired venous valve function and weak vein walls. Weak vein walls and defective vein valves are mostly associated with genetic factors. Acquired factors can also lead to excessive pressure on the valves, which gradually relaxes and fails to close tightly, resulting in varicose veins. Common causes include prolonged standing, heavy physical activity, pregnancy, prolonged coughing, and habitual constipation. Only patients with onset of varicose veins during pregnancy may recover after delivery, while the rest of the patients can only be relieved of varicose veins by exercise but not cured. Exercises include avoiding prolonged standing and sitting, proper mobility, elevating the diseased limb at intervals, wearing compression stockings and other measures to help the blood return to the lower limbs and reduce the pressure in the veins, thus relieving the symptoms. Once varicose veins appear, the condition progresses faster in the long term and should be treated actively to avoid aggravation of the condition.