Varicose vein disease and other forms of venous insufficiency are prevalent in many countries around the world. For instance, in the United States an estimated 30 to 40% of the population suffer from varicose veins. Approximately 41% of women will have abnormalities in their leg veins by their 50’s, and 60% of all American men and women will experience some form of vein disorder in their lifetime.

Many of those who suffer from vein disease (in other words, veins that stop functioning as they should, especially with regard to blood circulation) deal with discomfort, aching, and even pain on a daily basis. Still, they may be reluctant to seek treatment from a qualified medical professional. Perhaps they feel that a doctor would not be able to effectively help them. They may worry about the financial cost of treating the disease. In addition, they may fear that treatment options will be painful.

Your circulatory system relies on nearly 100,000 miles of blood vessels to deliver oxygen and nutrients throughout your body. While the blood-flow through your arteries is powered by the pumping of your heart, the veins directing blood back to your heart and lungs rely on a series of one-way valves. These valves defy the pull of gravity to keep your circulatory system functioning efficiently.

In healthy veins, these valves close completely to keep your blood from flowing downward towards your feet. When valves malfunction due to defect or disease, they can eventually cause a significant amount of discomfort and distress. Left untreated, vein disease can lead to a number of chronic health complications, including venous stasis ulcers.