What is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a condition that occurs when the veins in your legs cannot efficiently return blood to your heart. Usually, valves inside the leg veins ensure that blood flows upward toward the heart. When these valves weaken or become damaged, blood can pool in the legs, leading to swelling, discomfort, and other complications over time.
CVI is more common than many people realize, especially in adults over 50. Early identification and treatment are crucial for managing symptoms, preventing progression, and maintaining quality of life. At Greenhill Physiotherapy, we provide specialized physiotherapy care to support individuals living with venous insufficiency and its effects.
Causes of Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Several factors may contribute to CVI:
- Damaged or weakened vein valves – often caused by aging, injury, or prolonged pressure.
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – previous blood clots in the deep veins can damage valves.
- Prolonged sitting or standing – occupations that require long hours in one position can put stress on the veins.
- Obesity – excess weight can increase pressure on leg veins.
- Pregnancy – hormonal changes and increased blood volume may weaken vein walls.
- Family history – genetics can play a significant role.
Symptoms of Chronic Venous Insufficiency
CVI symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and skin changes. Some common signs include:
- Swelling in the legs or ankles (especially after standing for long periods)
- Aching, throbbing, or heaviness in the legs
- Varicose veins or spider veins
- Cramping or restlessness in the legs
- Skin changes such as dryness, thickening, or dark discoloration
- Itchy, irritated skin near the ankles
- In advanced cases, venous ulcers or open sores on the legs
If left untreated, chronic venous insufficiency can lead to complications like leg ulcers and infections. That’s why timely treatment is essential.
Why Physiotherapy Helps with CVI
Physiotherapy is often overlooked as part of CVI management, but it plays a crucial role in enhancing circulation, alleviating discomfort, and promoting long-term vein health. At Greenhill Physiotherapy, our treatment approach focuses on:
- Improving circulation – through guided exercises and movement therapy.
- Reducing swelling – with manual therapy techniques and patient education.
- Strengthening muscles – especially in the calves, which act as a “pump” to push blood upward.
- Promoting mobility – helping patients stay active without aggravating symptoms.
- Preventing complications – by teaching lifestyle strategies that reduce venous pressure.
Physiotherapy Treatment for Chronic Venous Insufficiency at Greenhill Physiotherapy
1. Individualized Assessment
Every patient with CVI presents differently. Our physiotherapists begin with a detailed assessment to understand the severity of your condition, lifestyle factors, and functional limitations. This allows us to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
2. Exercise Therapy
Movement is one of the most effective ways to improve venous return. We prescribe safe and effective exercises such as:
- Calf raises to strengthen the calf pump
- Ankle mobility exercises to promote circulation
- Low-impact aerobic activities such as walking or cycling
- Stretching to improve flexibility and reduce stiffness
These exercises are designed to be practical and easy to integrate into your daily routine.
3. Manual Therapy and Massage
Our physiotherapists may use gentle manual techniques to reduce swelling, improve tissue mobility, and encourage circulation. Specialized massage, often referred to as manual lymphatic drainage, may also be applied in some cases to help reduce edema.
4. Compression Therapy Guidance
While physiotherapists do not prescribe compression garments, we provide education and guidance on their safe and effective use. Wearing compression stockings can help prevent blood pooling in the legs, reduce swelling, and relieve discomfort.
5. Postural and Lifestyle Education
We coach patients on everyday adjustments that support vein health, such as:
- Avoiding prolonged sitting or standing
- Elevating the legs whenever possible
- Staying hydrated
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Incorporating daily physical activity
6. Pain Management Techniques
If pain or discomfort is interfering with your daily life, we can introduce strategies such as gentle mobility exercises, heat/cold therapy, and relaxation techniques to help ease your symptoms.
Benefits of Physiotherapy for CVI
Working with our team at Greenhill Physiotherapy can help you:
- Reduce swelling and leg discomfort
- Improve mobility and stamina
- Strengthen the muscles that support circulation
- Delay or prevent the progression of venous insufficiency
- Minimize the risk of venous ulcers
- Improve your overall quality of life
When to Seek Help
You should consider seeking professional care if you notice:
- Persistent swelling in your legs or ankles
- Pain or heaviness in your legs that worsens with activity
- Varicose veins that are enlarging or becoming painful
- Skin changes such as dryness, darkening, or thickening
- Non-healing wounds or ulcers on your lower legs
Early physiotherapy intervention can help manage symptoms before they progress into more serious complications.
Why Choose Greenhill Physiotherapy?
At Greenhill Physiotherapy, we are committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care for patients with chronic venous insufficiency. Our approach emphasizes education, movement, and patient empowerment. With the proper guidance and treatment, individuals with CVI can live active, fulfilling lives free from unnecessary discomfort.
- Experienced Team – Our physiotherapists are trained in managing vascular-related conditions.
- Personalized Care – Every treatment plan is tailored to your unique health needs.
- Comprehensive Support – From exercise therapy to lifestyle strategies, we cover every aspect of CVI management.
- Convenient Location in Hamilton – Making it easy for our community to access professional physiotherapy care.
Take the First Step Toward Better Leg Health
Chronic venous insufficiency doesn’t have to limit your daily life. With early intervention and the right physiotherapy approach, you can reduce symptoms, improve circulation, and protect your long-term vein health.
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of CVI, don’t wait for them to worsen. Contact Greenhill Physiotherapy today to book an appointment and begin your personalized treatment plan.
Call us or book online to schedule your consultation.
