Venous Insufficiency & Varicose Veins
Weakened vein valves let blood pool in the legs, causing heaviness, swelling, skin changes and bulging veins.
Understanding Varicose Veins & Venous Insufficiency
Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) occurs when tiny one-way valves inside leg veins become weakened or damaged, allowing blood to leak backward and pool in the legs instead of flowing efficiently up toward the heart. Over time, this increased pressure causes lower leg swelling, skin changes, aching heaviness, and twisted, enlarged surface veins known as varicose veins. Early evaluation and active management help relieve symptoms and prevent progressive skin complications or venous ulceration.
Common Symptoms & Clinical Signs
Venous insufficiency often worsens gradually, with symptoms intensifying toward the end of the day or after prolonged standing:
Visible Varicose & Spider Veins
Bulging, twisted, blue or purple surface veins, along with fine web-like spider veins on the calves or thighs.
Leg Heaviness & Fatigue
A dull, tired ache or feeling of weight in the lower legs, particularly in the evening.
Lower Leg & Ankle Swelling (Edema)
Puffy swelling around the ankles and lower legs that improves after overnight leg elevation.
Restless Legs & Night Cramps
Throbbing discomfort, muscle cramping, or an uncontrollable urge to move the legs when resting.
Skin Changes & Discoloration
Browning or reddish-brown skin discoloration (stasis dermatitis) around the inner ankles and lower calves, often accompanied by dry, itchy, or hardened skin.
What increases your risk?
Venous insufficiency develops when venous valves fail under persistent gravitational pressure. Key risk factors include:
Occupations requiring long periods without walking reduce calf muscle pumping, promoting blood pooling.
Vein walls and valves naturally weaken with age; a genetic family history significantly increases susceptibility.
Increased blood volume and hormonal changes relax vein walls, while pressure from the womb slows venous return.
Extra pressure on pelvic veins increases resistance to upward blood flow from the lower legs.
A history of deep vein blood clots or injury can permanently damage delicate internal venous valves.
Diagnosis & Treatment Options
Vascular specialists evaluate valve function and choose from non-invasive or minimally invasive therapies:
See ProceduresVenous Reflux Duplex Ultrasound
A non-invasive ultrasound map of leg veins that measures valve closure and identifies specific blood leaking points.
Conservative Therapy (Compression & Elevation)
First-line management using prescription compression stockings and regular leg elevation to control swelling and support flow.
Endovenous Radiofrequency / Laser Ablation (RFA/EVLT)
A minimally invasive in-office procedure using heat via a tiny catheter to seal shut diseased saphenous veins.
Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy
Injection of a specialized foaming solution into varicose or branch veins to close damaged vessels safely.
Microphlebectomy
Removal of large, painful surface varicose veins through tiny, micro-incisions requiring no stitches.
Daily Management & Lifestyle Guidance
Healthy daily habits improve leg circulation and keep symptoms under control:
Wear Graduated Compression Stockings
Wear prescribed knee-high or thigh-high compression garments daily during active hours to assist blood return.
Elevate Legs Above Heart Level
Prop your legs up on pillows for 15–20 minutes 3 to 4 times a day to relieve built-up pressure.
Stay Active & Walk Daily
Engage in regular walking or ankle flex exercises to activate calf muscle pumps that move blood upward.
Avoid Prolonged Inactivity
Break up sitting or standing by stretching, flexing feet, or walking every 30 to 45 minutes.
Practice Skin Hygiene & Care
Moisturize dry leg skin daily to protect against breakdown, rashes, or non-healing venous ulcers.
Red Flag Symptoms (Seek Prompt Medical Attention)
While venous insufficiency is manageable, certain symptoms require immediate medical evaluation:
- Open sores or non-healing wounds (venous stasis ulcers) near the ankle or shin.
- Sudden, severe swelling, redness, or heat in one leg (may indicate deep vein thrombosis or cellulitis infection).
- Active bleeding from a burst varicose vein (elevate leg, apply firm direct pressure, and seek emergency care).
- Spreading redness, severe tenderness, or red streaks extending along a superficial vein.
Procedures we perform for Varicose Veins & Venous Insufficiency
Take the first step toward healthier circulation
Our vascular specialists will evaluate your condition, explain every option clearly, and build a plan that fits your life.