Leg Ulcers

Leg ulcers are different from typical wounds. They can be slow to heal, spread quickly, and increase your risk of serious infections. At Centers for Pain Control and Vein Care, our experienced physicians provide comprehensive care for leg ulcers, addressing both the underlying vascular conditions and the wound itself.

With convenient locations in Hobart, LaPorte, Merrillville, Munster, and Valparaiso, Indiana, our team is here to help you promote healing and prevent complications. Don’t wait, if you notice an open wound, call us at (219)476-7246 or schedule an appointment online today.

What Are Leg Ulcers?

   A leg ulcer is an open wound that develops on the lower leg, often around the ankle. Unlike typical wounds, leg ulcers heal slowly, sometimes taking nine months or longer. Some ulcers may not fully heal or may recur even after treatment.

   Without proper care, leg ulcers can worsen over time, breaking down surrounding skin and increasing the risk of skin or bone infections.

What Causes Leg Ulcers?

   Leg ulcers are often caused by underlying vascular conditions, including:

Venous insufficiency

   Venous insufficiency occurs when the valves in your leg veins fail, allowing blood to pool and increasing pressure in the veins. This condition often leads to varicose veins and high venous pressure, which can force fluids into surrounding tissues. Over time, the skin breaks down, leading to a leg ulcer.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD)

   PAD develops when cholesterol plaque builds up in your leg arteries, restricting blood flow. Without adequate blood supply, skin and tissues in the lower leg don’t receive the oxygen and nutrients needed to stay healthy, which can result in a leg ulcer. Severe PAD may lead to critical limb ischemia, where tissue begins to die.

Symptoms of Leg Ulcers

   The most obvious symptom is an open wound, but other signs often appear first, reflecting the underlying vascular issue:

• Leg pain or aching

• Swelling in the lower leg

• Varicose veins

• Muscle spasms or restless legs

• Thickened or discolored skin

• Reddish-brown skin changes

• Eczema-like rashes

   Pain can present in different ways:

• Aching or burning pain is typical with venous insufficiency

• Pain during walking that eases with rest (claudication) is a hallmark of PAD

How are leg ulcers treated?

   At Centers for Pain Control and Vein Care, we take a two-pronged approach to leg ulcer treatment:

1. Treat the underlying vascular condition

2. Provide intensive wound care to promote healing

Treatment may include:

• Compression stockings

• Sclerotherapy

• VenaSeal® vein closure

• Microphlebectomy or phlebectomy

• Vein radiofrequency ablation

• Wound cleaning and debridement

• Specialized dressings and antibiotic therapy

• Bio-engineered tissue substitutes

• Negative pressure wound therapy

• Patient education for wound care at home

Schedule a Leg Ulcer Evaluation

   Leg ulcers can become serious if untreated, so early evaluation is critical. If you notice leg pain, skin changes, or an open wound, call Centers for Pain Control and Vein Care at (219)476-7246 or book an appointment online today. Our team will provide a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan to promote healing and prevent complications.