At The Vein Center of Cincinnati, we understand how uncomfortable and limiting chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) can be. Symptoms like leg pain, swelling, heaviness, and varicose veins can affect your daily life. Fortunately, there are several conservative treatments available that can help manage these symptoms and improve your quality of life.
What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)?
CVI occurs when the veins in your legs don’t function properly, making it difficult for blood to return to your heart. This leads to blood pooling in the legs, causing symptoms like swelling, aching, and even venous ulcers in severe cases. While some cases may require procedures for relief, patients can benefit from conservative treatments.
Conservative Treatments: First Steps in Managing Venous Insufficiency
Before considering more advanced interventions, conservative measures are typically recommended as the first step in treating venous insufficiency. These treatments focus on improving blood flow in your legs and relieving discomfort.
- Compression Stockings
- Compression stockings are designed to apply pressure to your legs, helping your veins move blood back toward your heart. Wearing these regularly can reduce swelling, improve circulation, and alleviate symptoms like heaviness and pain.
- How to Use: Compression stockings should be worn throughout the day, especially when you're standing or walking for long periods.
- Typical recommendations are 20-30mmHg for strength of compression. More or less compression strength may be advised based on your specific case, and it is always recommended to consult with a medical provider prior to implementing compression.
- Lifestyle Modifications
- Simple changes to your daily routine can make a big difference in managing venous insufficiency:
- Elevate your legs: Whenever possible, elevate your legs above the level of your heart to help reduce swelling.
- Stay active: Low-impact activities like walking or biking can promote better circulation in your legs.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put extra pressure on your veins, so maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important.
Insurance Requirements for Conservative Measures
Before moving forward with advanced treatments such as sclerotherapy or endovenous ablation, many insurance providers require a trial of conservative measures. This ensures that all non-invasive options are considered first.
Typical Insurance Requirements:
- Compression therapy: Many insurance companies require patients to wear medical-grade compression stockings for 6 to 12 weeks before approving procedures.
- Documentation: During this period, it's important for a medical provider to document your use of compression stockings and any relief or improvement in symptoms. This information is critical for your insurance provider to approve further treatments.
- Lifestyle changes: Insurance may also consider whether lifestyle changes and medication have been attempted to manage symptoms.
When to Consider Procedures for Treatment
If conservative measures like compression stockings and lifestyle changes do not or have not provided sufficient relief, our team at The Vein Center of Cincinnati will work with you to determine if you’re a candidate for more advanced treatment options. These include minimally invasive procedures like Varithena (sclerotherapy) or endovenous radiofrequency ablation, which can effectively treat the underlying causes of venous insufficiency.
We’re Here to Help
At The Vein Center of Cincinnati, we take a patient-centered approach to treatment. Our team will help guide you through your options, starting with conservative measures and working with your insurance provider to ensure you get the care you need. If you’re ready to take the next step in managing your venous insufficiency, contact us today to schedule an appointment!
We’re here to help you find relief and get back to feeling your best.