Venous Leg Ulcers
Venous leg ulcers are slow-healing wounds, usually on the lower leg or ankle, caused by poor return of blood through the veins. They are the most common type of leg ulcer.
warningSymptoms & Signs
- check_circleA shallow wound on the inner lower leg or around the ankle
- check_circleAching, heavy or swollen legs that ease when raised
- check_circleBrown or hardened skin around the ankle
- check_circleItching, weeping or a dull ache around the wound
helpCauses & Risk Factors
- check_circleVaricose veins and venous hypertension
- check_circlePrevious deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- check_circleLong periods of standing or immobility
- check_circleObesity and previous leg injury
emergencyWhen to See a Doctor
- check_circleAny leg wound that has not healed in two weeks
- check_circleIncreasing pain, redness, odour or discharge
- check_circleRapidly spreading swelling or warmth
medical_servicesHow Dr. Shah Treats It
Treatment focuses on improving venous return with graded compression therapy alongside modern wound dressings, while treating the underlying vein disease. Dr. Shah assesses circulation first to confirm the ulcer is venous, then builds a healing and recurrence-prevention plan.
quiz Frequently Asked Questions
Rarely. Without compression and proper wound care, venous ulcers tend to persist or recur. Early treatment heals them faster and lowers recurrence.
Compression is the mainstay for venous ulcers, but only after circulation is checked. If arterial supply is poor, the approach changes — which is why assessment comes first.