Venous leg ulcers are open wounds on the lower leg or ankle that don’t heal within two weeks.
They develop when veins in the leg are weakened, causing them to struggle carrying blood back to the heart. If vein valves are damaged—whether from age, injury, or surgery—blood can move backwards and collect in the veins, increasing pressure in the leg. Over time, this leads to swelling, skin changes, and eventually, a painful wound.
Healing takes time, and without proper care, venous leg ulcers can reoccur. Consistent care and small daily actions can make a big difference. You are not alone—every step you take brings you closer to healing.
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A healthy vein
Valves help blood flow back to the heart.
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A damaged vein
Blood to flow backwards and collect in the lower leg, causing swelling and increased pressure.
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The action of compression
Compression therapy applies gentle pressure to the leg, helping blood flow back to the heart. This reduces swelling and supports healing.
Risk factors
Certain factors can increase the risk of a venous leg ulcer. These include age, pregnancy, having varicose veins, limited mobility, a history of blood clots, leg injuries, overweight, or having a family history of vein issues.
