Still Feeling the 'Post-Publix' Heavy Legs?
Crossing the finish line at the Publix Atlanta Marathon is a massive win. You conquered the hills, braved the weather, and earned that medal. But if it’s been a week and your legs still feel like lead—or if that swelling just won’t go down with rest—your body might be trying to tell you something.
At The Vein Center at Johns Creek, we see plenty of Atlanta athletes who mistake Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) for simple 'overtraining.'

It’s Not Just 'Runner’s Fatigue'
When the valves in your leg veins weaken, they struggle to push blood back up to your heart. Instead, blood pools in the lower legs, creating that heavy, aching pressure. If left unaddressed, it won’t just make your recovery miserable—it can sideline you for the Peachtree Road Race later this year.
Watch: Getting Back to the Activities You Love If you’re worried that vein treatment means weeks of sitting on the couch, think again. Check out our latest video where we discuss how modern treatments are designed to get you back to your active Atlanta lifestyle—fast. Click here to watch on YouTube
Early intervention with minimally invasive treatments like Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) can get you back on the Atlanta trails faster than you might think.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do my legs still feel heavy weeks after a long run?
A little soreness is normal, but 'heavy' legs that linger are a classic sign of venous reflux. This happens when blood pools in your lower legs because your vein valves aren't quite keeping up with gravity.
Can I treat varicose veins without missing my next race?
Definitely. We know runners hate being told to sit still. Treatments like the VenaSeal™ Closure System allow you to return to your routine almost immediately—often with zero downtime.
About William H. Johnson, M.D.
Dr. William H. Johnson is the founder and lead physician of The Vein Center at Johns Creek. A native of Atlanta, Dr. Johnson’s prestigious medical journey began with his undergraduate and medical degrees from Duke University, followed by an internship and residency at the University of Michigan. With over two decades of experience, he is Board Certified and holds the longest history of specialized vein treatment in the Johns Creek area, having operated the only full-time surgical practice dedicated exclusively to venous health since 2001. Dr. Johnson has earned the 'Best of Georgia' award for three consecutive years (2023–2025).
Ready to find relief? Request a New Consultation or call us at (470) 326-0075.