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Relief from Chronic Venous Insufficiency Starts Here

When damaged vein valves disrupt healthy circulation, everyday activities become exhausting. Colorado Skin & Vein’s advanced diagnostic technology and targeted treatments address the root cause of chronic venous insufficiency, restoring comfort and confidence to your daily life.

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Understanding CVI

What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) develops when vein valves in your legs malfunction, preventing blood from flowing efficiently back to your heart. Healthy vein valves open to allow upward blood flow, then close tightly to prevent backflow. When these valves weaken or fail, blood flows backward and pools in your lower legs, creating increased venous pressure.

This backward flow—called venous reflux—stretches vein walls, making them more permeable and allowing fluid to leak into surrounding tissue. Your lymphatic system normally removes this excess fluid, but when overwhelmed by chronic pooling, swelling becomes visible and progressive. CVI is not merely uncomfortable; untreated cases lead to skin discoloration, thickened tissue, venous ulcers, and increased infection risk. At Colorado Skin & Vein, our vascular specialists use advanced duplex ultrasound technology to precisely map valve dysfunction and circulation problems, creating personalized treatment plans that restore healthy blood flow and prevent long-term complications.

Leading Medical Certifications
AAFP
ARDMS
The American board of venous & lymphatic medicine
Plastic surgical nursing certificate board (psncb)
american society for laser medicine and surgery
Leg Swelling & Edema
Leg Swelling & Edema
Heavy, Aching Legs
Heavy, Aching Legs
Skin Discoloration & Changes
Skin Discoloration & Changes
Varicose Veins
Varicose Veins
Leg Pain & Cramping
Leg Pain & Cramping
Restless Legs
Restless Legs
Itching & Burning Sensation
Itching & Burning Sensation

Recognizing Chronic Venous Insufficiency Symptoms

Chronic venous insufficiency rarely presents with one isolated symptom. Recognize these common warning signs that indicate valve dysfunction requiring medical evaluation.

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Questions About Chronic Venous Insufficiency? Ask Ava

Wondering if your leg symptoms indicate chronic venous insufficiency? Concerned about treatment options or recovery time? Ava, our intelligent vein health assistant, provides instant, personalized answers to your questions. Get clear information on your schedule—no appointment needed.

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Causes and Risk Factors

What Causes Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

Chronic venous insufficiency develops when factors weaken vein valves and walls, impairing your leg veins’ ability to return blood efficiently to your heart. Understanding your risk helps you recognize when evaluation is necessary.

  • Age Over 50: Natural aging weakens vein walls and valves, reducing their ability to maintain one-way blood flow.
  • Family History: Genetic predisposition significantly increases your likelihood of developing venous valve dysfunction and CVI.
  • Prolonged Standing or Sitting: Jobs requiring extended immobility increase venous pressure and impair circulation.
  • Previous Blood Clots: History of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) often causes permanent valve damage leading to chronic insufficiency.
  • Pregnancy: Increased blood volume, hormonal changes, and pressure on pelvic veins contribute to valve weakness.
  • Excess Weight: Additional body weight increases pressure on leg veins and impairs proper venous return.

Advanced Treatment for Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Our vascular specialists design personalized treatment plans that address the underlying valve dysfunction causing your symptoms, not just temporary relief.

Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)

Laser energy safely closes malfunctioning veins, restoring proper circulation by redirecting blood through healthy vessels. Minimally invasive procedure performed in-office with rapid recovery and excellent long-term outcomes.
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Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Controlled radiofrequency energy heats and seals diseased veins from inside, eliminating reflux and reducing symptoms. Local anesthesia, minimal discomfort, and typically one treatment session required.
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VenaSeal™ Closure System

Medical adhesive permanently seals problematic veins without heat or multiple injections. No post-procedure compression stockings required in most cases, offering maximum comfort and convenience.
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Sclerotherapy

Injectable solution closes smaller veins contributing to CVI symptoms and visible spider veins. Quick office procedure with proven effectiveness for superficial venous disease.
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See All Treatment Options
Common Questions

Common Questions About Chronic Venous Insufficiency

What is chronic venous insufficiency?

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a progressive vascular condition where leg vein valves fail to maintain one-way blood flow toward your heart. Blood flows backward through damaged valves and pools in lower leg veins, creating increased pressure, swelling, and various symptoms that worsen without treatment.

CVI develops when vein valves weaken or fail due to aging, genetics, previous blood clots, pregnancy, obesity, or prolonged standing/sitting. Damaged valves allow backward blood flow and pooling, stretching vein walls and creating sustained high pressure that progressively worsens valve function.

Early CVI symptoms include leg swelling that worsens throughout the day, aching or heavy feeling in legs, visible varicose or spider veins, and skin changes around ankles. Many patients notice symptoms improve with leg elevation and worsen after prolonged standing or sitting.

While not immediately life-threatening, untreated CVI is progressive and can lead to serious complications including venous ulcers, skin infections, blood clots, and permanent skin changes. Early treatment prevents advancement and typically requires less intensive intervention than late-stage disease.

Diagnosis involves physical examination and vascular ultrasound imaging. Duplex ultrasound provides detailed visualization of blood flow direction, valve function, and vein structure, allowing precise identification of reflux locations and severity. This painless diagnostic procedure takes 30–45 minutes.

Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover medically necessary treatments for chronic venous insufficiency when conservative measures have been tried and symptoms impact quality of life. Our team handles insurance verification, pre-authorization, and works to maximize your benefits.

Varicose veins are often a visible symptom of underlying chronic venous insufficiency. CVI refers to the broader condition of valve dysfunction and impaired venous return, while varicose veins are the bulging, twisted vessels that result from sustained high pressure and blood pooling caused by CVI.

Denver's Trust Vein Experts

For 20 years, Denver-area patients have trusted us for exceptional vascular care. Our combination of medical expertise, cutting-edge technology, and personalized attention delivers outcomes that truly transform lives.

20+ years of vascular treatment experience

Double board-certified physician

State-of-the-art laser technology

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Danielle Killingsworth, NCMA, Aesthetics Coordinator at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Danielle Killingsworth

NCMA, Aesthetics Coordinator

Danielle is a Colorado native who brings more than 22 years of experience in the medical field. Throughout her career she has developed a diverse clinical background across infectious disease, general surgery, and pain management — giving her a well-rounded understanding of patient care and of what it takes to create a safe, comfortable, and personalized experience.

As Aesthetics Coordinator at Colorado Skin & Vein, Danielle combines that clinical knowledge with a genuine passion for aesthetics. She is dedicated to helping patients feel confident, informed, and supported throughout their aesthetic journey, from the initial consultation through treatment and follow-up care.

She believes one of the most rewarding parts of her career is building meaningful relationships with patients and helping them look and feel their very best.

Outside of work, Danielle enjoys spending time with her family, including her four boys, getting lost in a good book, and working in her garden. Fun fact: she is a dedicated Dallas Cowboys fan.

Nikki Moyta, Operations Director at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Nikki Moyta

Operations Director

For over 26 years, Nikki has dedicated her career to the dermatology and aesthetics industry, building her experience from the ground up — starting in a patient scheduling call center, moving to the front desk, and rising to executive leadership overseeing multiple providers and locations.

Originally from Pittsburgh, she moved to Orlando before starting 10th grade and later attended Seminole State College of Florida. Her career in dermatology began in 2002, scheduling appointments for a multi-location practice. She grew quickly within the organization, moving into front-desk and checkout roles before being promoted to Office Manager in 2008. In 2012, her leadership and operational expertise led the CEO to seek her out for an expanded role overseeing multiple providers and locations — a position she held through 2022.

Outside of her professional career, Nikki is passionate about giving back to the community:

  • Community outreach
  • Voted “Cheerleader of the Practice”
  • 1st Place Winner — Miles for Melanoma

With a career built on leadership, dedication, and a genuine passion for patients and the aesthetics industry, she is excited to bring her experience and enthusiasm to the Colorado community. When she is not in the office, you can find Nikki with her Siberian husky, Compass, somewhere on top of a mountain.

Betina Lacson, RVT at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Betina Lacson

RVT

Betina graduated from the Cardiovascular Technology Program at Grossmont College in California in 2020, and brings more than six years of experience in the duplex world of venous insufficiency. Much of her career has centered on superficial vein mapping and assisting in surgery while providing attentive patient care.

At Colorado Skin & Vein, she assists with venous ablation procedures as well as ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy. She is committed to quality care at every stage — from the initial consultation, through surgery, to post-operative appointments — making sure each patient feels fully supported.

In her free time, Betina loves Kizomba dancing with her Afro-Latin dance community, and can often be found at electronic dance music shows in different cities. If you are feeling generous, she will happily accept a karaoke room or an iced Thai milk tea.

Brooke Owens, PA-C, MPAS at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Brooke Owens

PA-C, MPAS

Brooke Owens, PA-C, MPAS is a compassionate Physician Assistant who brings a strong clinical foundation, exceptional attention to detail, and a patient-centered approach to Colorado Skin & Vein.

Prior to joining the practice, Brooke spent several years in pediatric primary care, caring for patients with a wide range of acute and chronic conditions. She became known for her thorough evaluations, thoughtful clinical decision-making, and ability to build lasting relationships with patients and their families. That experience strengthened her diagnostic expertise while reinforcing the importance of listening carefully, educating patients, and creating individualized treatment plans.

Drawn to the unique blend of medicine, procedures, and patient transformation, Brooke was excited to move into vascular medicine and aesthetic care. She is passionate about helping patients improve not only their health but also their confidence — whether they are seeking treatment for vein disease, skin concerns, or cosmetic enhancements. By combining broad medical experience with advanced specialty training and a meticulous eye for detail, she delivers safe, effective, and personalized care.

Brooke believes the best outcomes begin with trust. She values taking the time to understand each patient’s goals, answer questions, and ensure they feel informed and comfortable throughout their care.

Angel Croce, Staff Manager at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Angel Croce

Staff Manager

Angel has been in healthcare for more than 20 years. Her journey began in 2004, after her father suddenly passed away from a stroke. Losing him was a life-changing experience, and it inspired her to choose a career where she could help others and give patients and their families the care, compassion, and support they need during difficult times.

Throughout her career she has worked across cardiology, neurology, family practice, and urgent care — each experience helping her grow both personally and professionally. She now works in vascular care and aesthetics, where she enjoys building relationships with her patients, helping them understand their care, and making sure they feel comfortable and supported throughout their journey.

Outside of work, Angel is a proud mom of two. Family is incredibly important to her, and in her spare time she loves being outdoors with her husband and their two dogs — hunting, fishing, and enjoying Colorado.

For Angel, healthcare is more than a career — it is personal. What started as a way to honor her father’s memory has become more than two decades of caring for others, and she is grateful to keep doing something that means so much to her every day.