What is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

Simply put, CVI occurs when the veins in your legs aren't effectively doing their job of returning blood to your heart. Instead of flowing smoothly upwards, blood can pool in your lower limbs, leading to a range of uncomfortable symptoms.²

Common symptoms to watch for

The signs of CVI can vary in severity, but some of the most common include:
 - Heavy, tired, or aching legs
 - Initial signs of varicose veins
 - A feeling of tension, cramps, or fatigue in your legs
 - Swollen ankles or feet
 - Spider veins or visible varicose veins
 - Skin discoloration or problems
 - In more severe cases, leg ulcers

Are you at risk for CVI?

While CVI can affect anyone, certain factors can increase your likelihood of developing it.

• Family history of CVI
• Age 40 or older
• Obesity
• Sitting or standing several hours a day
• Long-distance travel
• Pregnancy
• Surgery or Trauma
• History of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

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Six steps for better leg health and CVI relief ³

The good news is that there are many proactive steps you can take to manage CVI symptoms and improve your overall leg health:

• Get moving! Avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time. Circulation thrives on physical activity. Take short walks, climb stairs, or simply make an effort to move around throughout your day. Prolonged inactivity can worsen leg pain and swelling.
• Cool down your legs: After a long day, especially in warmer weather, a cool shower or bath can revitalize your legs. Try to avoid extended exposure to heat from sunbathing, hot baths, or saunas, as excessive heat can cause your veins to dilate and induce swelling.
• Elevate your legs: To boost your body's natural circulation, elevate your legs whenever possible. Prop them up on a cushion while relaxing on the sofa or lying in bed. At the office, consider using a leg rest under your desk.
• Excercise regularly: Consistent exercise is crucial for overall health, including the health of your veins. Regular physical activity helps improve blood flow and muscle tone, which supports venous function.
• Control your weight: Managing your weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise can significantly reduce leg symptoms. Less weight means less strain on your circulatory system.
• Wear graduated compression socks and hosiery: This is where specialized support comes in! Clinically proven, quality compression socks and hosiery are designed to improve venous circulation, helping to prevent and manage venous problems. They gently apply pressure to your legs, encouraging blood to flow back towards your heart more effectively.

If you're experiencing symptoms of CVI, don't hesitate to speak with your healthcare provider. Thankfully, with lifestyle adjustments and the right support, like clinically proven compression hosiery, relief is within reach. 

1. http://www.woundsinternational.com

2. Rabe E et al. Indications for medical compression stockings in venous and lymphatic disorders: An evidence-based consensus statement.Phlebology 2018; Vol. 33(3) 163–184.

3. Validation of a Gravitational Model to Study Local Endogenous Biomarkers in Chronic Venous Insufficiency. European J of Vas and Endo Surg 2018: 1-9.