I had ablation for "insufficient" veins & wish I had gotten a second opinion. I had NO visible vericose veins, but I had redness in my feet that I believed could be blood pooling. One year later, my feet are still red. Prior to the ablation, I had pain but NO numbness. I am now numb all the time. The procedure hit some nerves & made my neuropathy MUCH worse. Be sure to make it clear to the vascular doctor that you have neuropathy. Ask them for a copy of the multi-page, fine print "release" forms, PRIOR to getting the procedure. Proceed with caution. I am paying dearly for my mistake.

Julbpat, the best method to keep your blood vessel valves working is to make the work. When you exercise (walk, run, exercise, etc) the act of expanding your muscles pushing against your blood vessels helps to keep them in shape. And yes you are correct fluid pooling is the result of not working out. The stockings can be professionally fitted for some people who require that and they need to be high enough so as not to cut off circulation below the knee. Make sure you buy a stocking that meets your leg size as a too small one will constrict too much and arm you. Good luck.