Medically reviewed by Thomas Militano, MD, PhD, RPVI, on April 18, 2025
Your grandmother may have warned you, or maybe it was an old wives’ tale passed down at the dinner table: “Don’t cross your legs—you’ll get varicose veins!” Sound familiar? It’s one of the most common myths about vein problems—and it’s time we cleared it up.
Let’s set the record straight right off the bat: crossing your legs does not cause varicose veins.
What then does cause varicose veins? If you already have swollen, itchy veins, should you avoid crossing your legs to be on the safe side? In this blog, we’ll explore the real causes of varicose veins, how to prevent them from occurring or getting worse, and what you should do if the leg pain, swelling, heaviness, and self-consciousness have finally got you saying ENOUGH!
It’s time to feel confident about your leg health. Trust the leaders in vein health at Center for Vein Restoration (CVR). With over 110 locations nationwide and a 98 percent patient satisfaction rate, CVR’s commitment to excellence ensures that every patient receives personalized, state-of-the-art vein care.
Call 240-965-3915 to speak with a Patient Services Representative or schedule a vein evaluation below.
Varicose veins are large, bulging, and often twisted veins that most commonly appear in the legs. They're usually blue or purple and may cause symptoms like leg pain, swelling, or heaviness in the legs. Some people also have smaller, more delicate-looking spider veins, which are similar but closer to the skin’s surface.
These vein problems are signs of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a condition where the valves in your leg veins don’t work as they should. When working properly, the calf muscles contract, and blood is displaced from veins because the force of contact of the muscles is stronger than the vein walls. This displacement is directed “upwards.” However, when these valves fail to do their job, gravity causes blood to pool in the legs, increasing pressure in the venous system.
CVI is a common yet often overlooked condition that affects millions of Americans, with over six million people suffering from advanced stages, according to the National Library of Health (NIH).
The vein condition stems from persistent high pressure in the leg veins, often caused by faulty vein valves, poor muscle pump function, or vein compression by certain structures in the pelvis. These problems can lead to symptoms such as leg heaviness, swelling, varicose veins, and even painful venous ulcers, with costly consequences.
According to the American Heart Association (AHA) Journal Circulation, about 20 percent of the more than 2.5 million people in the U.S. who suffer from venous disease will develop venous ulcers. These ulcers can significantly limit mobility, reduce quality of life, and impact the ability to work—leading to 2 million lost workdays each year and premature retirement for over 12 percent of affected workers. The financial impact is substantial, with an estimated $3 billion spent annually in the U.S. on venous ulcer care.
Early diagnosis and professional vein care are essential for managing symptoms, preventing complications, and improving quality of life. Fortunately, vein disease is highly treatable. With the help of a qualified vein specialist, patients can explore minimally invasive treatment options that relieve discomfort, restore healthy circulation, and reduce the risk of ulcers and other serious complications.
If you're experiencing symptoms of varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency, it's essential to seek expert vein care early—before the condition worsens, potentially developing into deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or venous ulcers.
At the Center for Vein Restoration, our board-certified vein specialists utilize the latest diagnostic tools and minimally invasive treatments to diagnose vein disease early and treat it effectively. As the nation’s leader in vein care, CVR is committed to helping you feel—and heal—better, faster.
CVR accepts most insurances, including Aetna, Amerigroup, Anthem, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Cigna, United Healthcare, MultiPlan, Medicaid, Medicare, and others.
Call 240-965-3915 to speak with a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you today.
There are several known risk factors of venous insufficiency (also known as vein disease), but crossing your legs isn’t one of them.
Here are the main things that can increase your risk of developing varicose veins:
Fortunately, nowhere on that list will you see “crossing your legs.”
The idea that crossing your legs causes varicose veins likely started because people associate the cross-legged position with restricted blood flow. It’s true that if you cross your legs for a very long time, you might feel some tingling or temporary discomfort. But that’s not enough to damage your veins.
In reality, sitting for long periods—regardless of leg position—is much more likely to cause problems. Whether you’re crossing your legs or keeping both feet flat on the floor, sitting still for too long slows blood flow. That’s what contributes to the development of venous insufficiency and varicose veins.
Worried about getting varicose veins—or seeing more of them develop? Here are some simple ways to prevent varicose veins or slow their progression:
✅ Get moving: Walking, biking, or swimming helps your legs pump blood back to the heart.
✅ Take breaks: If you sit or stand for work, take a short walk or stretch every 30–60 minutes.
✅ Wear compression stockings: These snug-fitting socks gently squeeze your legs, helping your veins move blood upward. A vein specialist can recommend the right type for you.
✅ Elevate your legs: Lifting your legs above heart level for 15–20 minutes daily can reduce swelling and pressure.
✅ Maintain a healthy weight: This takes pressure off your veins and keeps your legs feeling lighter.
If you're dealing with leg pain, swelling, or visible vein problems, don’t brush it off as “just a cosmetic issue.” Vein disease is a medical condition, and you deserve answers—and relief.
Our team of board-certified vein doctors at Center for Vein Restoration is here to help. We’ll listen to your concerns, evaluate your symptoms, and build a personalized vein treatment plan just for you. With 110+ locations nationwide, expert vein care is always nearby.
If you already have varicose veins or spider veins, you don’t have to live with the discomfort—or the appearance—forever. Modern vein treatment is safe and effective, and at Center for Vein Restoration, it is performed in a comfortable office setting.
Popular and effective outpatient treatment options offered by Center for Vein Restoration include:
These minimally invasive treatments require little to no downtime and can significantly improve your comfort and confidence.
Crossing your legs won't cause varicose veins, but sitting still for too long might. Whether you prefer to sit cross-legged or not, the key to healthy veins is a combination of movement, healthy habits, and expert care when needed.
So go ahead, cross your legs if you want to—but remember to get up and move often, wear compression stockings if needed, and talk to a vein expert if you’re concerned.
Take the first step toward healthier legs! Let Center for Vein Restoration help. Contact us today at 240-965-3915 to speak with a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation below.
1. Can crossing my legs cause varicose veins?
No, crossing your legs does not cause varicose veins. The main causes are genetics, aging, pregnancy, obesity, and long periods of sitting or standing. However, crossing your legs may worsen symptoms such as pain or swelling if you already have varicose veins.
2. What causes varicose veins?
Varicose veins are caused by venous insufficiency, a condition where vein valves weaken and allow blood to pool. This increases pressure in the veins, causing them to bulge and twist. Risk factors include genetics, pregnancy, weight gain, inactivity, and prolonged standing or sitting.
3. How can I prevent varicose veins?
Stay active, avoid sitting or standing for long periods, elevate your legs, wear compression stockings, and maintain a healthy weight. These habits support good circulation and help reduce your risk of developing varicose veins or worsening existing ones.
4. Are varicose veins just a cosmetic issue?
No. Varicose veins can lead to leg pain, swelling, heaviness, and more serious vein disease. They’re not just about appearance—they can affect your comfort and health. A vein doctor can evaluate your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment.
5. What treatments are available for varicose veins?
Effective treatments include sclerotherapy, endovenous ablation, and ambulatory phlebectomy. These minimally invasive procedures are performed in-office, often with little downtime. A vein specialist can help you choose the best option for your condition and lifestyle.
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