Healing Venous Ulcer

Compression for Venous Ulcer

What is a venous ulcer? 

A wound caused by problem with blood flow in the legs is often categorized as a venous ulcer. Blood flow is carried down to the legs by arteries and back from the legs by veins. 

Veins can pump blood "up-hill" because they have valves that keep the blood from backing up. As you walk, your leg muscles also help pump back up to the heart.

When the veins don't open and close correctly, or the muscles are weak, blood backs up in the veins and causes swelling. 

How to care for an ucler? 

• Work with your health care provider to make a plan for healing.
• Wear compression bandage or stockings as requested by your provider.
• Use special dressings as directed over your ulcer.
• Take brief walks and do leg exercises.
• Elevate your legs above the level of the heart whenever you are sitting.
• Avoid standing for longer than 10 minutes at a time.
• Avoid sitting for prolonged periods of planes, car trips or at work. Do ankles exercises often while seated.
• Get up and move around often.