Venous insufficiency is a serious health problem that affects millions of people, but there is a good chance you do not know much about it. The condition, also known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), occurs when the valves in leg veins are not working properly, making it difficult for blood to return to the heart. This causes the leg veins to stay filled with blood, especially when an individual is standing.
If you are concerned that you may be at risk for CVI, there are several risk factors to be aware of. According to the Cleveland Clinic, people over 50 are most likely to develop the condition, with women more at risk than men. Other risk factors include being obese, pregnant, and having a history of Deep Vein Thrombosis. People who spend extended periods of time sitting or standing are also at greater risk of developing CVI. In addition to the risk factors, it is important to be aware of the symptoms. Signs of CVI include varicose veins, swelling in the lower legs and ankles, and aching, cramping, tingling and itching in the legs.
While surgery may be recommended for more severe cases, doctors generally advise patients with CVI to lose weight, wear compression stockings to reduce swelling, and avoid long periods of standing or sitting. The New York Times also points out that for people with CVI, even moving your legs slightly is beneficial for keeping the blood flowing, which is noteworthy for anyone suffering from the condition that is considering using a SitFlow. One of the best features of a SitFlow is that it promotes constant leg movement while in use, which is particularly useful for people suffering from CVI that may be unable to avoid long periods of time sitting down, perhaps due to a desk job or mobility issues. If you or anyone you know is struggling with CVI, we recommend trying a SitFlow, as it could make dealing with the condition more manageable.