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.
Several factors may contribute to CVI:
CVI symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and skin changes. Some common signs include:
If left untreated, chronic venous insufficiency can lead to complications like leg ulcers and infections. That’s why timely treatment is essential.
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:
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.
Movement is one of the most effective ways to improve venous return. We prescribe safe and effective exercises such as:
These exercises are designed to be practical and easy to integrate into your daily routine.
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.
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.
We coach patients on everyday adjustments that support vein health, such as:
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.
Working with our team at Greenhill Physiotherapy can help you:
You should consider seeking professional care if you notice:
Early physiotherapy intervention can help manage symptoms before they progress into more serious complications.
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.
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.