Whether you spend your days behind a desk, on your feet, or somewhere in between, your circulation is constantly working to keep blood flowing from your heart to your extremities and back again. Unfortunately, long hours of sitting or standing can put extra pressure on your veins and arteries, increasing the risk of swelling, discomfort, and long-term vascular problems.

At GLMI, we help patients throughout Buffalo, Williamsville, Cheektowaga, Orchard Park, and Cambria understand how lifestyle habits — including work posture — affect vein and circulatory health. Here’s what happens when you sit or stand all day, and how you can protect your circulation for the long term.

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Why Sitting or Standing Affects Circulation

Your body’s circulatory system depends on movement to keep blood flowing efficiently. The veins in your legs have one-way valves that push blood upward toward the heart, working against gravity. When you sit or stand for long periods without moving, these valves and surrounding muscles don’t engage properly, causing blood to pool in the legs.

Over time, this can lead to:

• Leg swelling or heaviness
• Varicose or spider veins
• Pain, cramping, or fatigue in the legs
• Increased risk of blood clots (especially for those who sit for extended periods)

Whether you’re an office worker, teacher, nurse, retail associate, or truck driver, prolonged inactivity or static standing can gradually weaken vein walls and contribute to chronic venous insufficiency — a condition where veins have trouble returning blood to the heart.

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What Happens When You Sit All Day

When you’re seated for long hours, blood flow slows, particularly in the lower legs. The calf muscles, which normally act as a natural “pump” for circulation, stay inactive. This causes fluid to collect and veins to expand, sometimes leading to swelling, numbness, or a tingling sensation in the feet and ankles.

Additionally, sitting for too long can lead to poor posture and compression of blood vessels around the hips and thighs, further restricting blood flow. Prolonged sitting has also been linked to higher risks of cardiovascular disease, obesity, and even blood clots known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

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What Happens When You Stand All Day

Standing for long periods can also be hard on your circulation. Gravity continuously pulls blood downward, increasing pressure in the veins of your legs and feet. This extra strain can stretch the veins and damage the valves that keep blood flowing upward.

Workers in professions like healthcare, manufacturing, food service, and education are particularly prone to leg fatigue, swelling, and visible varicose veins as a result of constant standing. Without adequate breaks or movement, this stress can lead to long-term vein issues and discomfort.

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How to Improve Circulation at Work

The good news is that you don’t have to overhaul your career to protect your vascular health. With small adjustments and habits, you can significantly reduce the effects of sitting or standing all day.

1. Move Regularly

Make it a goal to move every 30 to 60 minutes. If you sit most of the day, stand up to stretch, walk to refill your water bottle, or take a short stroll during phone calls. If you stand for long periods, sit down periodically to give your veins a break.

2. Engage Your Leg Muscles

Simple leg exercises help promote blood flow. Try flexing your calves, rotating your ankles, or performing heel lifts at your desk or workstation. These small movements activate the muscles that support venous return and prevent blood pooling.

3. Wear Compression Stockings

Compression stockings gently squeeze your legs, improving circulation and reducing swelling. They’re particularly beneficial if you already experience varicose veins or stand for extended hours. Ask your healthcare provider about the right compression level for you.

4. Adjust Your Workstation

If possible, use a sit-stand desk so you can alternate positions throughout the day. Proper ergonomics — including keeping your feet flat on the floor and your knees slightly bent — can also relieve vein pressure and promote healthier blood flow.

5. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can make your blood thicker, making it harder to circulate. Keep a water bottle nearby and sip throughout the day. Avoid excessive caffeine or sugary drinks, which can contribute to dehydration.

6. Elevate Your Legs After Work

When you get home, prop your legs up on a pillow or footrest for 15–20 minutes. Elevation helps drain excess fluid and reduces swelling after long hours on your feet or in a chair.

7. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Carrying extra weight increases pressure on your veins, especially in the lower body. Regular movement, balanced nutrition, and adequate hydration all support vascular wellness and overall health.

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When to Seek Professional Evaluation

If you notice persistent swelling, pain, or visible veins, it’s important not to ignore these signs. They may indicate an underlying circulation issue that requires attention. At GLMI, our vascular imaging services can evaluate blood flow, identify early signs of vein disease, and help guide appropriate next steps.

Depending on your symptoms, your provider may recommend:

• Ultrasound – A non-invasive way to assess vein function, detect blood clots, or identify venous insufficiency.
• Low-dose CT scans – Used to evaluate blood vessels and detect early signs of vascular narrowing or other abnormalities.
• Vein and venous disease services – Comprehensive evaluation and monitoring for those at risk of circulation problems due to prolonged sitting or standing.

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Why Western New York Patients Trust GLMI

GLMI provides comprehensive imaging and preventive screening services throughout Western New York, helping patients detect circulation problems before they worsen. Our state-of-the-art technology and expert staff ensure accurate, efficient results every time. With locations in Williamsville, Cheektowaga, Orchard Park, and Cambria, high-quality vascular imaging is always close to home.

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Take Small Steps for Better Circulation

Your body was made to move. Whether you work at a desk or on your feet, making time to stretch, walk, and rest your legs can have lasting benefits for your circulation and overall well-being. Protecting your veins today helps prevent future discomfort — and keeps you active for years to come.

Contact GLMI today to schedule a vascular evaluation or imaging appointment. Our compassionate team is here to help you stay proactive about your vein and circulatory health.

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Medical Disclaimer

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider about your specific symptoms and treatment options.