Varicose veins behind knee: causes, symptoms and treatment

Varicose veins behind the knee can be both uncomfortable and frustrating. Some people first notice them as a bulging vein when standing. Others experience a heavy, aching sensation or even pain. In this article, we explore why varicose veins behind the knee develop, what symptoms to watch for, and which treatments offer lasting relief.

What are varicose veins behind the knee?

Varicose veins occur when valves inside the veins stop working properly. This causes blood to pool in the vein, leading to bulging, twisted vessels visible under the skin. When this happens behind the knee — an area known as the popliteal fossa — the veins may be especially uncomfortable due to pressure from bending and movement.

While some people see them only as a cosmetic concern, painful varicose veins behind the knee can impact daily life and indicate underlying venous insufficiency.

Why do varicose veins form behind the knee?

Several risk factors contribute to the development of varicose veins in this area:

• Genetics (a family history of varicose veins)
• Prolonged standing or sitting
• Hormonal changes such as pregnancy
• Ageing and loss of vein elasticity
• Being overweight or inactive
• Physical strain, especially on the knees

The knee’s frequent movement and the pressure changes that come with bending and straightening can put extra stress on veins in this region.

Symptoms of painful varicose veins behind the knee

Not everyone with varicose veins experiences discomfort. However, painful varicose veins behind the knee may cause:

• A dull ache or throbbing sensation
• Heaviness or tiredness in the leg
• Localised swelling around the knee or calf
• Burning or itching skin near the vein
• Cramps or restlessness, especially at night

If the discomfort worsens when you sit or stand for long periods, or after exercise, it could be a sign of deeper vein issues.

We’ve covered this topic in more depth in our article on aching legs – causes and treatments.

When should you see a specialist?

You should seek medical advice if:

• You feel pain or tenderness behind your knee
• The vein appears swollen, warm, or hardened
• You experience skin discolouration or sores
• There’s swelling in just one leg
• Symptoms interfere with walking or daily activities

While rare, some of these symptoms may indicate a more serious condition like a blood clot, so it’s worth getting checked.

Diagnosis and clinical assessment

At UK Vein Care, we use duplex ultrasound scanning to examine the function of your veins and assess blood flow. This non-invasive test helps identify any valve failure or vein enlargement.

The results guide our recommendation for treatment and ensure we address the root cause of your discomfort.

Treatment options for varicose veins behind the knee

Modern treatments are safe, effective, and often performed as outpatient procedures. Options include:

• Endovenous laser or radiofrequency therapy – closes off the faulty vein from the inside
• Foam sclerotherapy – a special foam collapses the vein
• Microsurgical phlebectomy – removes the vein through tiny incisions

These procedures typically involve local anaesthesia and minimal downtime. You can usually return home the same day.

If you’d like a broader overview, we’ve written more in our article about facts about varicose veins.

What can you do at home?

While home remedies won’t eliminate varicose veins, they can relieve mild symptoms:

• Wear compression stockings during the day
• Avoid sitting with bent knees for long periods
• Elevate your legs when resting
• Stay active with regular walking or light exercise
• Maintain a healthy weight

These habits support healthy blood flow and may help slow the progression of vein issues.

Summary

Varicose veins behind the knee are a common but often overlooked issue. Whether they’re painful or simply unsightly, they can indicate a problem with how your veins are functioning. At UK Vein Care, we offer modern, minimally invasive treatments tailored to your needs.

If you're experiencing symptoms, you don’t need a GP referral — book a consultation directly with our team.

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