Staying On Your Feet at Work Raises the Risk of Varicose Veins

Many jobs keep employees on their feet throughout the day, and it is important to know that prolonged standing may contribute to varicose veins, the twisted and bulging dark purple or blue veins commonly found on the backs of the calves or on the inside of the leg. Varicose veins develop when valves that allow blood to flow toward the heart stop working properly, causing blood to pool in the veins and make them swell.

Varicose veins reportedly affect half the people over age 50, and are more common in women. Besides being unsightly, varicose veins are often painful, especially when standing or walking. They often itch, and scratching them can cause ulcers.

Varicose veins are an underreported industrial injury. In many cases, the Permanent Disability rating schedule allows for a permanent impairment and disability rating for impairment of the lower extremities due to varicose veins and other peripheral vascular diseases. Most importantly, a finding that varicose veins are work-related can result in a lifetime medical award to care for this condition.

Consult a physician if you are concerned about a link between varicose veins and your job. You should also consider contacting an attorney about a possible Workers' Compensation case.