Venous Leg Ulcers: Causes and Modern Treatments
Learn how venous insufficiency causes leg ulcers and discover effective treatments including compression therapy and vein procedures.
Venous leg ulcers account for 70-80% of all leg ulcers. They develop when faulty vein valves cause blood to pool in the legs, leading to skin breakdown. With proper treatment, most venous ulcers can heal—but addressing the underlying vein problem is key to preventing recurrence.
How Venous Ulcers Develop
Recognizing Venous Ulcers
Location
Usually on the inner ankle or lower leg, rarely on the foot
Appearance
Shallow with irregular borders, often with a red wound bed
Skin Changes
Surrounding skin may be discolored, thickened, or scaly
Symptoms
Aching, heaviness that improves with elevation
Treatment Approach
Treating the Veins
Procedures like endovenous ablation can close faulty veins, reducing pressure and preventing recurrence. Many ulcers won't stay healed without addressing the underlying vein problem.
Wound Care
Regular debridement, appropriate dressings, and infection control help the wound heal while compression addresses the cause.
Preventing Recurrence
Up to 70% of venous ulcers recur within 5 years without proper prevention:
- Wear compression stockings daily for life
- Elevate legs when sitting
- Stay active—walking helps pump blood back to the heart
- Consider vein procedures to fix the underlying problem
Get Your Venous Ulcer Healing
Our vascular specialists combine wound care with vein treatment for comprehensive healing.