The lifestyle of lorry drivers has come under scrutiny for decades, whether it’s about waist size or their mental health, but experts are now warning that they are at increased risk of varicose veins.
Surgeons at clinic Premier Veins warned that long hours behind the wheel, combined with repetitive movements during multi-drop deliveries, makes HGV drivers particularly vulnerable to the medical condition.
And it said employers should take the lead and encourage their workers to take breaks from their cabs and even tweak delivery routes.
Martin Claridge, consultant vascular and endovascular surgeon and director at Premier Veins, said: “There are roughly 320,000 delivery drivers and couriers across the UK, and they face a unique combination of stresses on their legs due to the nature of their jobs.
“Combined with repeated in-and-out movements to deliver goods, this can put extra strain on the vein valves, leading to blood pooling and, over time, the development of varicose veins.
Claridge added: “While often considered cosmetic, varicose veins can result in aching, swelling, and fatigue, all of which can impact drivers’ comfort, alertness, and overall productivity.
“For fleet operators, this presents a workforce risk, potentially affecting schedules, retention, and employee wellbeing.
“Employers can play a key role in reducing the risk,” he said.
“Simple measures such as encouraging drivers to take short walking or stretching breaks between drops, staying hydrated, adjusting delivery schedules to reduce continuous driving, and offering compression socks can support circulation and prevent long-term issues.”
