Most Likely Causes:
1. Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
• Weak or leaky veins in legs → blood pools in lower legs
• Worse with standing/walking
• Causes swelling, aching, heaviness, sometimes skin changes
• Often progressive with age
2. Diabetic Microvascular Disease
•
Diabetes affects small blood vessels and nerves in the feet
• Can cause swelling, burning, pain, and slow circulation
3. Sedentary Lifestyle or Muscle Weakness
• Calf muscles are “pumps” for blood return
• If she’s inactive, blood and fluid can pool in the legs
• Walking worsens this if vascular tone is poor
Supportive Management:
Compression Stockings
• Improves circulation
• Must be worn through the day — not while sleeping
Leg Elevation
• Elevate legs above heart level for 20 mins, 2–3 times daily
• Helps reduce swelling and pressure
Mild walking / physiotherapy
• Calf pumping exercises — improves venous return
• Avoid sitting with legs hanging for long
Also change her diet to a Diabetic Diet
Next Steps
Consult a vascular surgeon