Findings of venous insufficiency in the lower limb can usually be detected in connection with venous edema. Realization of compression therapy requires a prescription for stockings, motivation and guidance. In specialized care, correlating the edema and venous symptoms with color Doppler ultrasonography findings is essential. In addition to the assessment of the venous status, functioning of the calf muscle pump should be assessed more profoundly. Impeding symptoms of venous insufficiency or a complicated situation are an indication for invasive treatment. Venous return found in connection with mere edema symptoms or lymphedema is not an indication for invasive treatment.