When most men experience leg pain after work, they rarely think of varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) as the cause—often assuming these are cosmetic issues that mostly affect women. But that’s not the case. In fact, research shows that up to 45% of men may develop some form of venous disease in their lifetime. One of the most underestimated risk factors? Your job.

Whether you’re on your feet all day, sitting at a desk, or working in physically demanding conditions, your occupation may play a significant role in your vein health. This post breaks down which types of jobs put men at higher risk and what steps you can take to prevent problems before they start.

Why Occupation Impacts Vein Health

Your veins are responsible for transporting blood back to your heart, often working against gravity, especially in the legs. They use one-way valves and assistance from surrounding muscle movement to do this. When you sit or stand for long periods without moving, blood tends to pool in the legs, increasing venous pressure. Over time, this can damage those valves and lead to symptoms such as:

• Varicose veins
• Leg pain or cramping
• Swelling
• Skin discoloration
• Venous ulcers
• Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)

According to the American Vein and Lymphatic Society and clinical guidelines, occupational risk is a key factor in the development of these symptoms, particularly in men whose work is physically repetitive or sedentary.

Jobs That Involve Standing for Long Periods

Standing for long periods increases venous pressure in the lower limbs. Over time this can cause venous dilation and valve dysfunction.

Construction and Trades

Electricians, carpenters, roofers, and HVAC techs spend long days on hard surfaces with minimal breaks. The constant gravitational pressure and lack of movement slows down venous return and increases the risk of varicose veins and CVI.

Teachers and Retail Employees

Jobs that require standing for hours like teachers, security personnel, and retail workers are high risk. While these workers may walk periodically, standing still for hours a day is a big risk factor.

Food Service Workers

Cooks, baristas, and waitstaff spend most of their shift upright, often in hot environments. Heat dilates veins, further straining already stressed valves.

Jobs That Involve Sitting for Long Periods

Lack of movement while sitting can be just as bad for your veins as standing all day. Blood flow slows when leg muscles are inactive, increasing the risk of venous insufficiency and even deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Office and Tech Workers

Prolonged desk work limits calf muscle activity which is essential to help move blood back to the heart. Without regular movement, venous return slows and blood starts to pool in the lower legs.

Long-Haul Drivers

Truck drivers and delivery workers sit for 8 to 12 hours at a time. Limited breaks, cramped leg positions and infrequent hydration all contribute to poor circulation and increased risk of DVT and varicose veins.

Airline Personnel and Frequent Flyers

Pilots, flight attendants, and business travelers face a unique combination of risk factors: limited legroom, low cabin pressure, and extended immobility during flights. According to the CDC, these conditions are associated with a higher risk of DVT, especially on flights over 4 hours.

Jobs with Repetitive Heavy Lifting

While movement is generally good for circulation, repetitive heavy lifting can increase intra-abdominal pressure making it harder for veins in the legs to push blood up.

Warehouse Workers and Movers

Carrying or lifting heavy loads frequently can increase abdominal pressure and hinder venous return. Over time this pressure affects the function of valves in the leg veins and contributes to vein disease.

First Responders and Manual Laborers

Firefighters, EMS workers, and others in physically demanding jobs may alternate between intense physical activity and long periods of rest. These shifts can put extra stress on the vascular system and can lead to long-term damage.

Why Men Get Leg Pain After Work More Often

Men are less likely to seek medical attention for symptoms of vein disease and often delay diagnosis until the condition is more severe. Many male-dominated professions are high risk but vein health is not always part of routine preventive care.

Common early signs in men may include:

• Heavy or tired legs, especially at the end of the day
• Swelling in the ankles or calves
• Visible blue or bulging veins
• Numbness, burning, or restless legs at night
• Skin changes around the ankles or shins

Ignoring these signs can lead to venous ulcers, cellulitis, or mobility issues.

Tips for Reducing Leg Pain After Work for Men

Even if you can’t change your job, there are ways to protect your vein health:

1. Move Often: If you’re standing or sitting all day, take a short walk or stretch every 30-60 minutes to get the blood moving.
2. Elevate Your Legs: After work, elevate your legs above heart level for 15-20 minutes to reduce pressure.
3. Wear Compression Stockings: These help improve blood flow and prevent swelling. Especially helpful during long workdays or travel.
4. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight adds pressure on your leg veins.
5. Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration helps maintain healthy blood flow.
6. Don’t Ignore Symptoms: Early treatment prevents complications. If you notice signs of vein disease, schedule an appointment.

Modern Vein Treatment Options

At Vein Institute, we offer minimally invasive vein treatments with no downtime.

Options include:

• Infrared Coagulation (IRC)
• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
• VenaSeal™ 
• Sclerotherapy
• Ambulatory phlebectomy

These are outpatient, effective, and take under an hour to do.

Leg Pain After Work Could Be a Sign of Vein Disease

If your job has you on your feet all day, at a desk, or under heavy loads, your risk of vein disease is higher than average, and it’s not just cosmetic. Vein issues affect energy, comfort, and mobility.

At The Vein Institute, we help men take control of their health with diagnostic evaluations and customized treatment plans for busy working professionals. If you’re experiencing leg pain after work, including swelling or visible veins, it’s time to get checked out.

Contact us at one of our four Connecticut locations today to schedule your appointment—and stop letting your job take a toll on your legs.