Medically reviewed by Sanjiv Lakhanpal, MD, FACS, and Khanh Q. Nguyen, DO, RPVI, on November 12, 2025
Leg pain, swelling, or wounds that won’t heal can be frustrating, and sometimes even alarming. These symptoms often signal an underlying circulation issue, and two of the most common culprits are arterial insufficiency and venous insufficiency. Although they may look similar, they stem from very different problems in the blood vessels and require distinct treatments.
In this blog, we’ll discuss what distinguishes arterial insufficiency from venous insufficiency, how each affects blood flow, the symptoms to look for, and why an accurate diagnosis is essential for proper healing. You’ll also learn how today’s advanced treatment options can relieve discomfort and protect your long-term leg health.
If you’ve noticed swelling, skin color changes, or sores that take weeks to heal, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Schedule a comprehensive consultation with Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) today and take the first step toward healthier, more comfortable legs.
📞 Call Center for Vein Restoration at 240-249-8250
📅 Or book online HERE
Your circulatory system has two main networks: arteries and veins. Arteries deliver oxygen-rich blood from your heart to your limbs and organs, while veins carry blood back to your heart after it has circulated throughout your body.
Arteries operate under high pressure, pushing blood outward to nourish the tissues. Veins, meanwhile, rely on one-way valves and the squeezing action of the calf muscles to direct blood upward and against gravity, toward the heart. When either system weakens or becomes blocked, blood flow is disrupted, depriving tissues of oxygen or causing pressure buildup that damages the skin.
Venous insufficiency, also called chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), develops when the veins in your legs cannot effectively send blood back to the heart. Damaged or weakened vein valves allow blood to pool in the lower legs, increasing venous pressure. Over time, this leads to:
As pressure inside the veins increases, oxygen and nutrients struggle to reach the skin, which can result in tissue breakdown. The good news is that modern treatments correct these issues safely and effectively.
At CVR, board-certified specialists use outpatient techniques, including ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, and ambulatory phlebectomy. These treatments relieve venous pressure, restore healthy blood flow, and promote healing, typically allowing patients to return to normal routines quickly.
📞 Call Center for Vein Restoration at 240-249-8250
📅 Or book online HERE
Arterial insufficiency occurs when blood cannot flow freely through the arteries due to narrowing or blockages. When this affects the legs, which is the most common location, it is often caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD) in which cholesterol plaque builds up inside the vessel walls. Reduced blood flow deprives tissues of oxygen, leading to symptoms such as:
Insufficient oxygen delivery slows healing and increases the risk of infection. Contributing factors include smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, and elevated cholesterol.
Treatment aims to restore circulation through lifestyle adjustments, medications, and sometimes procedures such as angioplasty or stenting to reopen narrowed arteries. Early diagnosis helps prevent complications such as chronic pain or tissue loss.
While both conditions affect circulation, they do so in opposite ways. Understanding the contrast helps ensure the right treatment:
Recognizing the source of the problem, vein or artery, ensures the right therapy and the best possible outcome.
Ignoring circulation problems can allow ulcers, infections, and chronic pain to develop. Early evaluation leads to faster relief and better long-term results.
If you’re noticing swelling, aching, leg skin discoloration, or a sore that won’t heal, it’s time for a professional assessment. At CVR, our experienced clinicians use advanced imaging to pinpoint vein issues and guide treatment.
During your visit, you can expect:
Our compassionate team focuses on education, comfort, and lasting results, so you understand your condition and feel confident every step of the way.
Understanding the difference between arterial and venous insufficiency empowers you to take charge of your health. Once the correct cause of poor circulation is identified, vein treatment can restore comfort, function, and confidence.
Contact CVR today to schedule your consultation and discover how our specialists can help you achieve healthy, pain-free legs for life.
📞 Call Center for Vein Restoration at 240-249-8250
📅 Or book online HERE
Q: How can I tell if my leg ulcer is due to a vein or artery problem?
A: A vascular evaluation with duplex ultrasound is the most reliable way to determine the cause. This painless test assesses blood flow in both veins and arteries to guide the best treatment plan.
Q: Can lifestyle changes alone fix venous insufficiency?
A: Regular exercise, leg elevation, and maintaining a healthy weight support circulation but may not repair damaged valves. Professional vein treatments are often needed for complete, lasting improvement.
Q: Does insurance cover vein treatment?
A: Most insurance plans cover procedures for symptomatic venous insufficiency, such as those addressing swelling, pain, or ulcers.
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