What a venous leg ulcer is
A venous leg ulcer is an open wound that forms on the lower leg, most often just above the ankle, when the veins cannot return blood upward efficiently. Over time the blood pools, pressure rises in the smaller vessels, and the overlying skin becomes fragile and breaks down. The surrounding skin often looks discolored, hardened, or swollen before the ulcer appears.
These wounds tend to weep fluid and heal slowly, and they frequently return if the underlying vein pressure is never managed. That is why effective care looks past the wound surface and addresses circulation, swelling, and skin protection together rather than treating the open area alone.
How we treat venous leg ulcers
The same clinician returns where possible, so swelling, drainage, and the wound bed are followed carefully from one visit to the next.
Wound & skin assessment
Evaluate the ulcer, the surrounding skin, and swelling to guide an appropriate plan.
Compression therapy
Apply and adjust compression when suitable to reduce fluid buildup and support the veins.
Drainage management
Use absorbent dressings sized to the wound so moisture stays balanced and skin stays protected.
Debridement
Clear non-viable tissue when appropriate so healthy tissue can advance across the wound.
We monitor for infection, support elevation and skin-care routines that reduce recurrence, and share visit notes with progress photos with the ordering physician and facility.
Who we help
- Patients with chronic swelling or vein disease in the legs
- Older adults with thin, fragile skin on the lower legs
- Residents of assisted living and skilled nursing facilities
- Families managing a leg wound that has not healed for weeks
Coverage
Medicare Part B may cover medically necessary wound care, including venous leg ulcer care, when eligibility criteria are met. We verify benefits before the first visit and bill Medicare directly, so there are no surprises. Our insurance specialist handles the paperwork alongside you.
Related services
Frequently asked questions
What causes a venous leg ulcer?
Venous leg ulcers form when the leg veins struggle to return blood to the heart, so pressure builds in the lower leg and the skin breaks down, usually near the ankle. Managing that pressure is central to helping the wound heal.
Why is compression important for leg ulcers?
Compression helps move fluid out of the lower leg and supports the veins, which improves the environment a venous ulcer needs to heal. We apply and adjust compression as part of the care plan when it is appropriate for the patient.
Does Medicare cover venous leg ulcer care at home?
Medicare Part B may cover medically necessary wound care, including venous leg ulcer care, when eligibility criteria are met. We verify your benefits before the first visit and bill Medicare directly.
My leg wound keeps coming back. Can you help?
Yes. Recurring leg ulcers are common when underlying vein pressure is not addressed. We treat the active wound and coach on long-term skin care and compression to lower the chance of return.