An ultrasound on legs is the gold standard for evaluating varicose veins. It is safe, painless, and uses sound waves to create real-time images that help your specialist check vein function. A varicose vein ultrasound shows if valves are working, detects reflux (backward blood flow), and identifies blockages or clots that may cause symptoms.
Your physician may recommend an ultrasound of the legs if you have:
- Visible varicose or spider veins
- Aching, heaviness, or leg fatigue
- Swelling in the legs or ankles
Skin discoloration, eczema, or ulcers
Ultrasound provides the full picture of vein disease, not just what’s visible on the surface.
What Can I Expect During My Leg Ultrasound?
A leg ultrasound usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. A water-based gel is applied, and a handheld probe is moved along your leg to capture images.
You’ll be examined both lying down and standing to:
- View all vein segments
- See how blood flow changes with position
- Test the calf muscle pump, which pushes blood toward the heart
To check valve function and rule out clots, the specialist may use gentle compression with a hand or cuff. If swelling or skin changes are present, the deep veins are examined for narrowing or signs of past clots.
How Should I Prepare?
Before your ultrasound, drink water to stay hydrated, wear loose clothing, and avoid lotion, which can interfere with the gel. These small steps help capture the clearest images.
How Ultrasound Guides Treatment
Ultrasound results help your doctor decide which treatment best fits your condition:
VenaSeal™
A minimally invasive treatment that closes varicose veins with a medical adhesive. Effective for swelling, itching, fatigue, and advanced problems such as venous ulcers or vein inflammation (thrombophlebitis).
ClosureFast™
Uses radiofrequency heat to seal larger varicose veins, avoiding the pain and recovery time of vein stripping surgery.
Sclerotherapy
Involves injecting a liquid or foam solution to collapse smaller varicose and spider veins. Results develop over weeks, and multiple sessions may be needed.
Removes large surface veins through tiny incisions.
Take the Next Step
At Empire Vein & Vascular Specialists, leg ultrasounds are performed by registered vascular technologists (RVTs) with advanced training in vein anatomy, blood flow, and disease detection. We are the only vascular lab in the area accredited by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) and a training site for the West Coast Ultrasound Institute.
Don’t treat your veins without knowing what’s beneath the surface. A leg ultrasound identifies the cause of your symptoms. Our board-certified vascular surgeons restore vascular health with safe, effective care. We accept most insurance plans, including Medicare, PPOs, HMOs, and IEHP.
Call 1.800.VARICOSE (1-800-827-4267) or visit our website to schedule your appointment today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get a leg ultrasound if I have varicose veins?
Most patients only need an initial exam unless symptoms progress. Additional ultrasounds may be recommended after treatment to confirm healing.
Is a leg ultrasound safe during pregnancy?
Yes. It’s safe, painless, and uses sound waves, not radiation, making it the preferred method for expectant mothers.
Will insurance cover a leg ultrasound?
Yes. Most insurance, including Medicare and IEHP, covers medically necessary ultrasounds for symptoms such as pain, swelling, or skin changes. Cosmetic-only scans may not be covered.