Our veins have one-way valves ... which means they're tightest at the ankle and the pressure gradually lessens towards the top of the sock. "This leads to a better pathway for venous return ...

narrow instruments that they tunnel through a small incision to remove the vein with minimal trauma to the leg. Traditional methods make a much longer cut — often from the ankle to groin.

most often near your ankle. These venous ulcers are the most common type of chronic lower extremity wound, affecting 1% to 3% of older adults in the U.S. and Europe. Varicose veins occur when the ...