Bumps in vein on arm: My doctor said it's valves in the vein - is there a such thing? (Photos)

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Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Thanks carljr92 for your question! It is completely understandable to be a bit skeptical when you see unusual bumps on your body, but your doctor is spot on. those distinct, localized bulges along the path of the vein are classic examples of venous valves.
These are often referred to as "venous knots." They look exactly like what happens when blood pools slightly behind the one-way flap of a valve. In the arm, where the skin is often thinner and the veins are more superficial, these mechanical structures become quite visible.
You'll notice they stay in the exact same spots along the vein. This is because the valves are fixed structures built into the vein wall. When you have your arm down or are using your muscles, the pressure increases. The valve closes to prevent backflow, causing that small "pouching" effect you see. While they might look a bit odd, seeing them usually indicates your valves are holding pressure correctly.
As long as the area isn't painful, hot to the touch, or red, these are just a normal part of your anatomy. If you ever notice the vein becoming hard, rope-like, or consistently tender, that would be the time to check back in with your doctor to rule out superficial thrombophlebitis (a small, harmless clot in a surface vein).
Hope this was helpful!
Best wishes,
Dr Ali Sajjadian

Thank you for sharing your photos. The veins over your bicep are tortuous and enlarged. There are two possible treatments . Phlebectomy or Foam Sclerotherapy for your arm veins. I have removed hundred of thousand of annoying looking veins but I recommend against treating or removing veins from your forearm and upper arm . You need those vein for blood draws and IVs .

The venous circulatory system of the lower and upper extremities contains many valves and that is a fact; however, if there are symptoms like swelling, pain, redness, or hardness or lump (area of concern upper /lower extremity) you should be checked by your physician. An ultrasound of the upper extremity could be done to evaluate patency of the deep and superficial veins of the area of concern. 
Best, 

These are normal valves in veins.  The veins in the picture are superficial veins with prominent and noticeable valves in them in the pictures

Those are valves or venulectasia, where the vein is 50% larger than segments before or after the valve. This is normal.H Karamanoukian MD FACScertified vein specialist (ABVLM) and double board certified surgeon

Yes, our veins do have valves.  You are normal.  If the appearance of the veins becomes more prominent, it may be a good idea to go see a vascular specialist that can address veins.  If it has been with you for a while it is probably normal.  Should you have further concerns be sure to follow up with a local doctor.

The veins of our arms and legs have one way valves to aid in the proper flow of blood back to the heart.  The area of the veins that have the valves tend to have a slight bulge in them. This is entirely normal.

These actually look like varicosities in the arm.  There can be many causes.  If they are "new" I would suggest getting them evaluated by a vascular specialist as they should not be there.  

Yes, these are most likely valves, which help prevent blood from flowing backwards. They are commonly seen on the legs, but occasionally on the arms.