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Does standing at work increase the risk of varicose veins?
Teachers, nurses, hairdressers: standing all day is a real risk factor for varicose veins. Here is what the research shows and how to protect your legs.
- Standing at work for long hours raises the risk of varicose veins.
- A large study found the risk 1.85 times higher in men who stand.
- In women who stand, the risk was 2.63 times higher.
- Up to a fifth of working-age cases are linked to standing jobs.
- Breaks, movement and compression stockings all help.
Varicose veins are veins that no longer pump blood properly against gravity towards the heart. A sign of chronic venous disease, they often appear as twisted, swollen, enlarged vessels, which is a cosmetic concern, but their loss of function can also lead to serious health problems. Does standing all day at work make them more likely?
The risk factors for varicose veins
Several risk factors play a part: sex, lifestyle, age, obesity, pregnancies and family history. These genetic and environmental factors have been described in many studies. Among them, certain activities, especially standing at work for long hours, are clearly linked with the formation and progression of varicose veins.
Whatever the cause, a varicose vein can be treated without surgery: focused ultrasound (echotherapy) closes it with no incision.
Is prolonged standing a major risk factor?
Because many jobs require standing for hours, researchers have looked closely at the link. A Danish study followed 1.6 million employees over three years and found a clear pattern:
| Group | Extra risk of varicose veins from prolonged standing at work |
|---|---|
| Men | 1.85 times higher than other men |
| Women | 2.63 times higher than other women |
Other studies confirmed this, and even jobs mixing standing with a lot of walking carried a higher risk. In one 12-year study, a fifth of all working-age varicose vein cases could be linked to prolonged standing at work.
What can you do if you stand at work?
The link between prolonged standing and venous disease is clear, but it can be managed. Take every chance to reduce or break up standing so blood circulates better. When that is not possible, compression stockings support the upward flow, and regular stretches and small exercises boost circulation and lower the pressure.
These simple habits, alongside watching for heavy legs, go a long way. For more, see how to prevent varicose veins yourself.
Wondering whether echotherapy is available near you? A growing network of centres is already equipped with the SONOVEIN.
Questions fréquentes
Does standing at work cause varicose veins?
Standing for long hours is a recognised risk factor. A large Danish study found the risk 1.85 times higher in men and 2.63 times higher in women who stand at work.
Why does standing increase the risk?
Standing still for long periods raises the pressure in the leg veins and hinders the upward flow of blood, which favours varicose veins.
Which jobs are most at risk?
Any job with prolonged standing, and even those mixing standing with a lot of walking, carry a higher risk.
How can I protect my legs if I stand all day?
Take breaks to sit or walk, do calf stretches and small exercises, and wear compression stockings when you cannot reduce standing.
Can varicose veins from a standing job be treated?
Yes, and without surgery: echotherapy uses focused ultrasound to close the vein with no incision.