Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a condition characterized by difficulty in sending blood back to the heart by the veins due to faulty one-way valves. Pronounced veins, i.e., the veins that grow in size and may take on a twisted or branch-like appearance, is the most common symptom.
These are varicose veins and result from blood pooling in the veins causing pressure to build up in the vein walls. In addition, venous insufficiency can cause the legs to become painful, heavy, and tired. However, you may reverse chronic venous insufficiency and help your legs recover using conservative methods.
Let’s discuss some of the approaches that can improve the blood flow in your legs and where you can go around Irmo, SC, for seamless and comprehensive treatment.
#1 Wear Compression Stockings
Compression stockings apply pressure to the veins in your legs and help return blood to the heart. Compression stockings with a compression strength of 20-30mmHg are the most commonly prescribed strength for patients with CVI, which is recommended to wear for two weeks.
#2 Increase Daily Physical Activity
Being physically active helps your blood move efficiently, as movement stimulates muscle contractions and so circulation. Low-impact exercises, such as walking, cycling, yoga, and leg lifts, can help you recover from venous insufficiency. If walking is not something you can do daily, investing in a treadmill or elliptical machine or exercise bike can help you maintain physical activity while at home.
#3 Keep Your Legs Elevated
Making a habit of keeping legs elevated throughout or at the end of a long day helps prevent blood pooling in the legs. It also assists with the flow of blood back to the heart. Position your legs above heart level by using a pillow or lying on the floor and placing your legs up against the wall or over an ottoman.
#4 Decrease Salt Intake
A diet high in sodium, consisting of cured meats, canned goods, junk food, fast food, and even salted nuts, can cause water retention, which increases the pressure on the leg veins, potentially making venous insufficiency worse. Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend adults keep their sodium intake below 2,300 mg per day.
#5 Avoid High Heels
High heels are a risk factor for leg and vein health. Your calf muscles have a problem contracting when you wear high heels, and as a result, your veins will have difficulty pushing blood. Moreover, wearing high heels can significantly add to your leg’s pain, discomfort, and heaviness.
If the problem persists or you are not happy with the outcome of conservative methods, it may be time to see a health professional that specializes in treating vein issues.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency Treatment in Irmo, SC
The Rejuvenations is a medical spa in Irmo, SC, that specializes in laser skin solutions. We provide comprehensive treatment for various skin problems, including varicose veins, using vein therapy. For our chronic venous insufficiency patients, we use the Cutera CoolGlide system, which effectively treats many vein issues like spider veins and varicose veins.
Our goal is to restore your legs to a smooth, vein-free, and youthful appearance. Our highly qualified board-certified doctors will evaluate your problem and tell you if CoolGlide Vein Therapy is right for you or whether another treatment method may produce better results.
To know more or schedule a consultation, call our medical spa in Irmo today at (803) 781-1201 or fill out our convenient appointment request form.
We look forward to serving you!
