Venous Insufficiency

What is Venous Insufficiency?

Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when the leg veins do not allow blood to travel back to the heart. (Arteries carry blood away from the heart, while veins carry blood to the heart). Problems with valves in the veins can cause the blood to flow both directions, not just toward the heart. These valves that are not working properly can cause blood in the legs to pool. If chronic venous insufficiency is left untreated, pain, swelling, and leg ulcers may result.Chronic venous insufficiency does not pose a serious health threat, but the condition can be disabling and cause pain.

What Causes Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

Chronic venous insufficiency is more common among those who are obese, pregnant, or who have a family history of the problem. Individuals who have had trauma to the leg through injury, surgery, or previous blood clots are also more likely to develop the condition.

What are the Symptoms of Venous Insufficiency?

  • Swelling in legs and/or ankles
  • Tight feeling calves or itchy painful legs
  • Pain during walking that stops with rest
  • Brown-coloured skin, particularly near the ankles
  • Varicose veins
  • Leg ulcers

    • Using Compression Therapy

    Swelling and/or skin discolouration caused when the veins are unable to pump enough blood back to the heart can be managed with graduated compression. CertiCare’s graduated compression solutions provide external vein support to increase blood flow back to the heart.

    For more information on Venous Insufficiency and compression:
    Vascular Web
    Vascular Cures

    Click her for ADP approved compression products and pumps:
    Lower Extremity Solutions
    Upper Extremity Solutions
    Compression Therapy solutions