Leg Ulcers

What Are Leg Wounds (Leg Ulcers)?

Leg wounds — also called leg ulcers — are open sores on the lower leg that heal very slowly or do not heal at all. While wounds can appear for many reasons, poor circulation is one of the most common contributors. When blood flow in the legs is reduced, especially in people with venous insufficiency, the body cannot deliver the oxygen and nutrients needed for proper healing.

For individuals without vein disease, small cuts or injuries on the legs typically close on their own.
But when circulation is impaired, wounds may:

• Remain open
• Become larger or deeper
• Become infected
• Cause ongoing pain, swelling, and drainage

Untreated ulcers can become severe and significantly impact mobility and quality of life.

Common Symptoms of a Leg Ulcer

Leg wounds caused by poor circulation typically develop near the inner ankle, the area where venous pressure is highest. Symptoms may include:

• Slow or non-healing sore on the lower leg or ankle
• Discolored or hardened skin surrounding the wound
• Swelling of the lower leg or ankle
• Itching or burning sensation
• Pain or aching around the wound
• Drainage or fluid leaking from the sore
• Foul odor (possible sign of infection)

If you notice any of these symptoms — especially if the wound has not improved in two weeks — you should be evaluated promptly.

What Causes Leg Wounds? Risk Factors

Leg ulcers often form because of underlying circulation problems. The most common causes include:

Venous Insufficiency (most common)

When the valves in your leg veins become weak or damaged, blood pools in the lower legs, increasing pressure. Over time, this pressure leads to skin breakdown and ulcer formation.

Arterial Disease

Reduced blood flow due to narrowed arteries can cause painful ulcers, typically on the feet or toes.

History of Blood Clots (DVT)

Past clots can damage the veins and increase ulcer risk.

Other Risk Factors

• Previous injuries to the leg
• Obesity
• Age over 50
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Immobility or prolonged standing/sitting
• Kidney disease
• Hypertension

Some wounds form after a minor cut, scrape, or bump — but fail to heal due to circulation issues.

How Are Leg Wounds Diagnosed?

Proper diagnosis is essential to ensure the wound heals correctly. At BASS Vein Center, evaluation may include:

• Ultrasound of the leg veins to identify venous insufficiency
• Arterial testing if poor arterial circulation is suspected
• Examination of the wound edges, tissue health, and infection risk
• Review of medical conditions (diabetes, kidney disease, etc.)
• Review of medications that may affect healing

Understanding the root cause is the key to preventing recurrence.

Treatment Options for Leg Ulcers

Treatment focuses on healing the current wound and correcting the underlying circulation problem.

1. Compression Therapy

Compression stockings or wraps reduce swelling and improve blood flow — one of the most effective treatments for venous ulcers.

2. Leg Elevation

Helps blood return to the heart and reduces pressure in damaged veins.

3. Wound Care & Dressings

Specialized dressings may be used to protect the wound, absorb drainage, and promote faster healing.

4. Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT)

Also known as vacuum-assisted wound closure, NPWT uses gentle suction to:

• Remove excess fluid
• Increase oxygen delivery
• Promote tissue growth
• Help large or deep wounds heal faster

This method is often used for stubborn or advanced ulcers.

5. Medication

If infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed.

6. Venous Procedures to Treat the Underlying Cause

When venous insufficiency is contributing to the wound, minimally invasive vein treatments can significantly improve healing and prevent recurrence:

• Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA/EVLT)
• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
• VenaSeal™ closure
• Sclerotherapy
• Ambulatory phlebectomy

Restoring proper blood flow is the most important step in preventing future ulcers.

7. Skin Grafting (in select cases)

If the wound is very large or deep, skin grafting may be recommended after the ulcer is stable.

Get Treatment for Leg Wounds at BASS Vein Center

If you have a leg wound that is slow to heal, painful, or showing signs of infection, contact the specialists at BASS Vein Center.
We serve patients throughout Northern California.

We’ll identify the cause of your wound, create a customized treatment plan, and help you take steps to prevent new ulcers from forming.