Venous Leg Ulcers: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Patients at the Las Vegas practice of Ted Cohen, DPM, can count on experienced care for complex foot and leg conditions, including venous leg ulcers. These open sores typically develop on the lower leg and can be slow to heal without proper treatment. Understanding why they form and how to manage them can help you stay more comfortable and prevent complications.

What Causes Venous Leg Ulcers

Venous leg ulcers occur when poor circulation in the veins of the legs leads to a buildup of pressure and fluid under the skin. This is often the result of chronic venous insufficiency, a condition in which the valves in the veins do not work well, allowing blood to pool instead of returning efficiently to the heart. Potential contributing factors include a history of blood clots, varicose veins, obesity, prolonged standing, or old leg injuries. Over time, the skin and tissue become weakened, making it easier for ulcers to develop after even small injuries.

Recognizing The Symptoms

The early signs of a venous ulcer often include swelling in the lower leg, a feeling of heaviness, or aching that worsens throughout the day. Skin near the ankle may become discolored, thickened, or itchy before a wound forms. Once present, a venous ulcer usually appears as a shallow sore with irregular edges, surrounded by inflamed or hardened skin. Because these wounds can be slow to heal, they are at higher risk for infection, making prompt evaluation and care essential.

How Podiatric Care Helps You Heal

Dr. Cohen provides treatments that work to both repair the current ulcer and prevent future ones. Improving circulation is one of the top priorities, often involving compression therapy to help reduce swelling and improve blood flow. Wound care is performed at our Las Vegas, Nevada, office to keep the ulcer clean, promote healing, and protect against infection. In some cases, specialized dressings or topical medications may be used to speed recovery. Treating venous insufficiency, managing swelling, and protecting the skin are essential for long-term success.

The Importance Of Ongoing Care

Because venous leg ulcers can recur if the circulation problem remains, Dr. Cohen emphasizes the value of ongoing management. This may include lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, elevating the legs, maintaining a healthy weight, and wearing compression stockings as recommended. He works closely with patients to track progress and adjust treatment.

If you have a slow-healing sore on your leg or notice early signs of skin changes near your ankles, prompt attention can make a big difference. Ted Cohen, DPM, in Las Vegas, Nevada, offers comprehensive care to help you heal and protect your leg health for the future. If you’re struggling with venous leg ulcers, call us at (702) 387-8777.