Tightness of skin in the legs is the feeling that comes from venous congestion, or the inability of the vein system to return blood back to the heart for pumping. Skin tightness is a sign that pressure is accumulating, frequently from blood in the vein system that pools in the leg. Tightness can be felt with or without accompanied swelling
If you’ve been experiencing skin that feels tight on your lower legs, it could be caused by several different medical issues. Many times, though, this uncomfortable feeling comes from damaged veins.
If you’ve been experiencing skin tightness, check out some of the common causes and how you can treat these medical conditions, or call to speak to a specialist.
Jump to: Venous Ulcers – Varicose Veins – Full Guide – Misc
What Are the Common Causes of Skin Tightness on Lower Legs?
Two of the most common causes of this issue are venous ulcers and varicose veins, detailed below.
Venous Ulcers
Venous ulcers, which are also sometimes referred to as stasis or varicose ulcers, are usually found in the medial or lower legs around the ankles. These ulcers or open sores are caused by circulation problems. When the valves inside the leg veins become damaged, the pressure in the veins increases, resulting in sustained venous hypertension.
While some of the most common symptoms include a rash, discoloration and foul-smelling discharge, venous ulcers can also cause tight feeling skin. Along with being uncomfortable, these ulcers can become infected if left untreated, leading to swelling, pain, pus and fever.
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are also caused by malfunctioning valves. When the valves in your veins can’t transport the blood back to your heart, they become enlarged and take on a rope-like appearance. They tend to be either blue or purple and occur right under the skin. While any veins in the body can become varicose, it most commonly occurs in the legs and feet.
Because blood vessels dilate in higher temperatures, you’ll most likely notice more symptoms on warmer days. Along with achiness and pain, tight feeling skin is one side effect of varicose veins.
Go to the Varicose Vein Guide
Vein & Vascular Basics
Varicose Vein Basics
Risk Factors, Complications, Warning Signs,
Symptoms - Bleeding, Itching, Skin Issues, Bulging, Clots & Ulcers
Other Possibilities for Tight Feeling Skin & Leg Tightness
Along with venous ulcers and varicose veins, tight feeling skin on lower legs can be caused by varicose eczema or lipodermatosclerosis. Varicose eczema is a skin condition common in people with varicose veins. It affects the lower legs, causing symptoms such as dry and flaky skin, swelling and a tight feeling.
Lipodermatosclerosis, which is a chronic inflammatory condition, is caused by venous insufficiency. This insufficiency could be caused by anything from venous overflow obstruction to incompetent venous valves. This condition can cause the skin to harden on the lower legs and cause a tight feeling.
Get Treatment at Central Florida Vein and Vascular Center
If you’ve been experiencing a tight feeling skin or pain in your lower legs due to conditions ranging from varicose veins to varicose eczema, several minimally invasive procedures can provide varicose vein pain relief.
At Central Florida Vein and Vascular Center, we treat patients of all ages, delivering high-level care and comfort. We make sure you understand all your treatment options before creating a customized treatment plan. Whether you require spider vein sclerotherapy, Venaseal therapy or endovenous laser treatment, all of our procedures are minimally invasive, allowing you to receive treatment in our office and resume normal activities shortly after.
For more information on our treatments or to schedule an appointment, call us at 407-293-5944 or fill out our online contact form.
