Enlarging the veins in the arm using tourniquet exercises makes veins more easily accessible for venipuncture.

Why it works

Veins are thin-walled vessels. When blood is pooled or trapped in a vein with a tourniquet, the vein becomes distended or wider. When a tourniquet is applied on the upper arm, it traps blood in the lower part of the arm. If a ball or rolled wash cloth is squeezed after the tourniquet is applied, it develops the forearms and hands to further push the distended vein toward the surface of the skin.

What we suggest

• Hang your arm down below the level of your heart and apply the tourniquet on your upper arm. The tourniquet should not be so tight that it is uncomfortable. We do not want your hand or arm to turn purple or tingle.
• Squeeze a small rubber ball or a rolled up washcloth for at least five minutes. Repeat the procedure on the other arm.
• Repeat this exercise nightly or at least three to four times a week.