Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) and Lower Body Swelling
Zari Cooper, MOT, OTR/L, CLT-ALM
Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) wounds, also called venous ulcers, happen because of poor blood flow (venous stasis) in the legs, leading to fluid buildup and swelling, skin changes (like redness, hardening, dryness), and eventually open sores that struggle to heal because tissues aren’t getting enough oxygen and nutrients. This poor circulation makes the skin fragile and prone to breakdown, often around the ankles, creating slow-healing ulcers. Many people experience these symptoms for years without realizing the underlying cause.
Common CVI symptoms to look for
- Swelling in the lower legs or ankles
- Leg heaviness or aching
- Varicose or spider veins
- Skin discoloration near the ankles
- Dry, itchy, or thickened skin
Why CVI Causes Leg Swelling:
When venous pressure increases, fluid leaks into surrounding tissues. Over time, this overloads the lymphatic system and may lead to chronic swelling or secondary lymphedema.
Treatment That Focuses on Improving Circulation:
- Compression stockings/bandages
- Leg elevation
- Exercise and weight management
- Medications to improve blood flow
- Wound care for existing ulcers
Are you experiencing chronic leg swelling, heaviness, or skin changes? Contact us to discuss conservative treatment options for chronic venous insufficiency.
Keywords: chronic venous insufficiency, leg swelling, venous disease, compression therapy, ulcers
Sources:
American Venous Forum. (n.d.). Clinical practice guidelines. American Venous Forum.
https://www.venousforum.org/resources/guidelines/
Eberhardt, R. T., & Raffetto, J. D. (2014). Chronic venous insufficiency. Circulation.
https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.113.006898
Executive Committee of the International Society of Lymphology. (2020). The diagnosis and treatment of peripheral lymphedema: 2020 consensus document of the International Society of Lymphology. Lymphology, 53(1), 3–19.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32521126/
Society for Vascular Surgery. (n.d.). Clinical guidelines and reporting standards. Vascular.org.