Hi my name is Beth. I have varicose veins, swollen legs, and very swollen knees, my feet are covered in veins running in all directions. Lately a vein decided to make its way across the knee cap (which is nearly invisible from all the swelling) as the blood is pushing its way through it is very painful. Anyhow, here is my question - the vein is painful and at times I can't bend my knee to go up steps or even walk because of the vein over my knee, besides the pain the vein pulls very tight over the knee cap.