Pressure optimization system for Varicose Veins management

Veins have one way valves inside them that open and close to keep the blood flowing towards the heart. Varicose veins represent a condition where the weak or damaged valves in the veins can cause blood to pool and even flow backwards. It is most common in pregnant women and the elderly. Compression therapy is an established treatment for varicose veins, where the applied pressure has to be in specific ranges in order to have an effective treatment. No method currently exists for monitoring the pressure applied in the leg while tying the compression bandage on the affected leg. Improper application of compression bandage can be ineffective or can cause issues such as skin irritation, discoloration, dent in skin and can also cause necrosis. This paper aims to provide a pressure indicating system with Force sensing resistor (FSR) and Light emitting diodes (LEDs) integrated with compression bandage for pressure optimization and management of varicose veins. The effectiveness of the pressure indicating system is validated by measuring the subject's vein length within a span of four weeks.