Venous insufficiency
Understand venous insufficiency: causes, symptoms and effective physiotherapy treatments
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The information on this page has been checked by the physiotherapist Andreas Mondl.
What is venous insufficiency?
Venous insufficiency, also known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), is a condition in which the veins in the legs can no longer effectively return blood to the heart. This is usually due to damaged or weak venous valves.
Common causes and risk factors:
- Genetic predisposition
- Lack of exercise or prolonged sitting/standing
- Overweight
- Pregnancy
- Age and hormonal changes
Venous insufficiency is a common condition, especially in adults over the age of 40, and can lead to serious problems such as open wounds (leg ulcers) if left untreated.
Common symptoms of venous insufficiency
The symptoms of venous insufficiency can range from mild to severe and include:
- Feeling of heaviness and tension in the legs
- Swelling, especially after prolonged standing
- Visible varicose veins
- Skin changes, such as discoloration or hardening
- Pain or discomfort in the legs
- Nocturnal calf cramps
- In severe cases: Ulcers or open wounds
These symptoms not only affect mobility, but also general well-being.
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How can physiotherapy help with venous insufficiency?
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of venous insufficiency. The aim is to promote blood circulation, reduce swelling and improve quality of life. Our experienced physiotherapists create individual therapy plans that are precisely tailored to your needs. At Mediphysio in Vienna we offer:
What exercises and measures can you carry out yourself?
In addition to physiotherapy, you can actively contribute to improving your symptoms:
- Exercise: Regular walking or cycling strengthens the leg muscles and promotes blood flow.
- Leg lifts: Exercise to relieve pressure on the veins by raising your legs several times a day.
- Calf raises: Strengthens the calf muscles and activates the muscle pump.
- Cold water: Alternating showers or showering your legs with cold water stimulates blood circulation.
- Healthy diet: A balanced diet can help to prevent obesity and relieve pressure on the veins.
Always consult a specialist doctor or physiotherapist if you have any questions or uncertainties.
Why choose Mediphysio for the treatment of venous insufficiency in Vienna?
Mediphysio in Vienna stands for patient-centered, modern and effective treatment that stands out due to several special features. Our experienced team specializes in the treatment of venous insufficiency and related diseases and develops individual treatment plans that are precisely tailored to the needs of each individual patient. We use modern techniques and innovative methods to noticeably improve our patients’ quality of life. We also offer maximum flexibility by carrying out treatments both in our practice and in the comfort of your own home with our home physio service. Our aim is to provide lasting relief for your symptoms and promote your mobility in the long term.
FAQ Venous insufficiency
Frequently asked questions about the treatment of venous insufficiency
What are the most common causes of venous insufficiency?
Genetic predisposition, lack of exercise, obesity and hormonal changes are the most common causes.
How does physiotherapy help with venous insufficiency?
Physiotherapy improves blood circulation, reduces swelling and alleviates discomfort through targeted measures such as lymphatic drainage and exercise therapy.
What treatments are available for venous insufficiency?
Manual lymphatic drainage, exercise therapy, compression bandages and ergonomic advice are among the most important forms of treatment.
How long does it take to recover from venous insufficiency?
Recovery depends on the severity. With regular therapy, symptoms can improve within a few weeks to months.
Can physiotherapy relieve pain caused by venous insufficiency?
Yes, targeted physiotherapy relieves pain and improves circulation in the long term.
What exercises can I do at home?
Calf raises, walking, cycling and elevating your legs are effective self-help exercises.
Is physiotherapy safe during pregnancy?
Yes, physiotherapy can certainly be adapted to the needs of pregnant patients.
How often should I go to physiotherapy?
Weekly sessions are recommended, depending on the individual therapy plan.
What should I avoid after a physiotherapy session?
Avoid sitting or standing for long periods without movement and excessive strain on the legs.
What are the long-term benefits of physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy offers a long-term improvement in blood circulation, relief from pain and prevention of further complications.