Athletes and Varicose Veins

Originally posted August 2020 in Healthy Cells Magazine


Many people mistakenly believe that varicose veins are only a condition of the elderly, especially elderly women. So men and women who are in good shape are surprised when they see bulging veins on their legs. Sometimes they believe that physical training is causing the problem. In reality, the number one reason for varicose veins among athletes, as with other people, is heredity. If one parent has varicose vein disease, you have approximately one in three chance of developing it. But, if both parents have it your odds jump to a nine in ten chance.


Exercise has no impact on risk factors. It neither prevents nor causes vein disease. It can improve your symptoms however. For athletes and others vein disease can be cosmetic or can cause symptoms or can be a combination of both. Many athletes experience pain about 30 to 45 minutes after a training session or athletic activity. The affected leg may ache, throb or feel more tired than unaffected leg. Sitting with your leg elevated will reduce the discomfort. 


During exercise your muscles need more oxygen. When you are at rest your calf muscles are not pumping blood efficiently. If your veins are not working properly, some blood pools in your lower leg, causing the symptoms listed above. Some athletes find wearing a compression stocking or sleeve after exercise aids in their recovery.


Untreated varicose veins will not get better and they can be a health risk if complications such as infection or blood clots develop. Active people do not want treatment that requires a long recovery or disrupts their exercise. Fortunately, today’s minimally invasive treatments allow people to return to their normal activities almost immediately.


If you think you might have varicose veins, call 309-862-4000 to schedule a FREE SCREENING EXAM with one of their physicians or request an appointment online at www.ILveins.com .  They have convenient locations at 3302 Gerig Drive in Bloomington and 2011 Rock Street, Suite D2 in Peru.

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Labor Day is a holiday that honors the hard work and dedication of America’s workforce. For many, it’s also a reminder of the physical toll labor-intensive jobs can take on the body—especially the legs and veins. Occupations that require long hours of standing, lifting, or repetitive movements can increase the risk of spider veins, varicose veins, and chronic venous insufficiency. This Labor Day, take a moment not only to celebrate your hard work but also to consider strategies to protect your vein health while on the job. How Labor-Intensive Jobs Affect Vein Health Jobs in industries like construction, healthcare, retail, hospitality, and manufacturing often require workers to spend most of their shifts on their feet. Prolonged standing increases pressure in the leg veins, leading to swelling, fatigue, and, over time, visible vein issues. On the other hand, jobs that require heavy lifting or frequent bending can put additional stress on circulation, worsening existing vein conditions. Without proper care, these symptoms can develop into chronic venous disorders, which may impact both comfort and long-term health. Tips for Protecting Veins on the Job 1. Take Movement Breaks Even in jobs that demand constant standing, small breaks for movement can make a significant difference. Flexing the ankles, shifting weight from one leg to the other, or taking a short walk during breaks improves circulation and helps prevent blood from pooling in the legs. 2. Wear Compression Stockings Compression garments are one of the most effective tools for workers in labor-intensive industries. They gently squeeze the legs, supporting blood flow and reducing swelling, heaviness, and discomfort. Modern compression stockings are lightweight, breathable, and available in work-friendly designs. 3. Prioritize Hydration Dehydration can make blood thicker, slowing circulation and making it harder for veins to function properly. Carry a refillable water bottle at work and aim to drink consistently throughout the day. This is especially important for outdoor laborers exposed to heat. 4. Choose Supportive Footwear Good shoes are an investment in vein health. Supportive footwear with cushioning and arch support reduces strain on the legs and improves circulation. Avoid shoes with flat soles or high heels, both of which can negatively affect posture and vein health. 5. Elevate Your Legs After Work At the end of a long day, give your veins a break by elevating your legs above heart level.. This helps reduce swelling and promotes healthy circulation, providing relief from the strain of physical labor. When to See a Specialist If you notice persistent symptoms such as swelling, heaviness, pain, or visible varicose or spider veins, it may be time to consult a vein specialist. Early intervention can help prevent minor symptoms from turning into chronic conditions. At The Vein Specialists, minimally invasive treatments like sclerotherapy and endovenous laser therapy can effectively treat vein problems with little downtime.  Conclusion Labor Day is a time to honor hard work—but it’s also the perfect reminder to care for your body, especially your veins. By taking proactive steps like staying active, wearing compression gear, staying hydrated, and choosing supportive footwear, you can protect your veins and maintain long-term leg health. This holiday, celebrate your dedication to your work by investing in your own health.
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