When the weather turns cold and the days get shorter, slowing down is natural. We spend more time indoors, move less and before we know it, our bodies — especially our legs — feel heavier and more uncomfortable.
But here’s the truth: your veins need movement to stay healthy. Inactivity during winter can lead to increased leg swelling, fatigue and even painful conditions like chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) or venous ulcers.
As Thomas “Rett” Reeve IV, MD, often reminds patients, “Vein symptoms are your body’s early warning system. The sooner we support your circulation, the easier it is to prevent bigger problems later.”
At Tanner Vein Center, we want you to feel your best all season. Here’s how to keep your legs moving, blood flowing and symptoms at bay — even when it’s cold outside.
Why winter makes vein issues worse
- Cold temperatures can cause veins to tighten, making it harder for blood to circulate.
- Less movement (especially with holiday travel, work-from-home routines or long periods of sitting) can cause blood to pool in the legs.
This can increase symptoms like:
- Leg swelling
- Achiness or cramping
- Leg cramps at night
- Skin discoloration or dry patches
- Slow-healing sores (venous ulcers)
The longer we ignore these symptoms, the worse they can get. The good news is that you don’t have to wait until spring to take action.
Simple ways to care for your veins indoors
You don’t need a gym or fancy equipment. You just need a few simple routines to keep your circulation going. Try walking in place during TV commercials, stretching at your desk or doing gentle chair yoga to activate your leg muscles. These small movements go a long way in supporting your veins, especially during colder months when we tend to sit more.
1. Start a small indoor garden
Pot some herbs or houseplants near a window. Bending, reaching and walking between plants gives your legs the movement they need — and it’s calming, too.
2. Wear supportive clothes at home
Compression socks or supportive leggings can help your veins do their job — especially if you’re sitting for long stretches during the day.
3. Keep it fun with a movement challenge
Start a light fitness challenge with your family or friends. A 15-minute walk, stair step, hallway dance-off or daily stretch break adds up.
4. Add mindful breathing to your routine
Stress can make symptoms feel worse. Try deep breathing for two to three minutes while doing chores or while you're seated. It can calm your body and support better circulation.
When to see a vein specialist
If you’ve started to notice any of the following, it’s time to talk to a vein expert. These can be signs your circulation needs medical support:
- Skin darkening around your ankles
- Itching or dryness that won’t go away
- Swelling that feels worse at the end of the day
- Heaviness, achiness and fatigue in your legs (especially toward the end of the day)
- Leg cramps at night
- Open sores that heal slowly
Expert vein treatments at Tanner Vein Center
Our team provides personalized care to treat vein problems at every stage, from mild discomfort to advanced conditions. We offer:
- Compression therapy
- Ultrasound evaluations
- Minimally invasive vein treatments
- Specialized wound care for venous ulcers
We serve patients from Carrollton, Villa Rica, Bremen and nearby communities with expert care — close to home.
FAQ
What helps poor leg circulation in winter?
Gentle movement, compression socks, leg elevation and deep breathing can help support better blood flow when you’re less active.
Can sitting too much cause vein problems?
Yes. Sitting for long periods slows blood flow, increases pressure in your veins and can lead to pain, swelling or varicose veins. Chairs that put pressure behind your knees can make this worse by restricting circulation. Elevating your legs while sitting can encourage healthier blood flow.
Is compression therapy good in cold weather?
Yes. Compression socks or stockings help veins push blood back to the heart and reduce swelling — especially during colder months when circulation naturally slows.
Where can I find a vein clinic near Carrollton, Georgia?
Tanner Vein Center offers expert care for vein conditions with advanced treatments and personalized support. Call 770-812-VEIN (8346) for winter wellness tips and to schedule your consultation.
Take the next step toward comfort
Don’t wait until symptoms get worse. If your legs feel tired, heavy or swollen, we’re here to help.
At Tanner Vein Center in Carrollton, we’re here to help you feel your best all season long, with care that’s close for those in Villa Rica, Bremen and communities across east Alabama like Wedowee and Woodland.
Call Tanner Vein Center at 770-812-VEIN (8346) to step into the season feeling stronger and supported.