But while some changes in the skin are normal, those caused by chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) are not. CVI is a serious medical condition that affects approximately 40 percent of women and 20 percent of men in the U.S. – especially those adults over the age of 50. The disease occurs when veins and valves in the legs weaken, allowing blood to pool in the legs. Risk factors for CVI include:
- Being over the age of 50
- Being female
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Varicose veins (or family history of varicose veins)
- Obesity
- Lack of exercise
- Pregnancy
- Smoking
- Prolonged sitting or standing
Patients may experience minor soreness or bruising following a procedure. Most patients report a noticeable improvement in their symptoms within one to two weeks of treatment. Many insurance companies will cover procedures for venous insufficiency in part or in full.