How long does it take for venous ulcers to heal?

Most venous ulcers heal within 3-6 months with appropriate treatment, though healing time depends on ulcer size, duration, and underlying health factors. Some ulcers may heal faster while others take longer.

Will my venous ulcer come back after healing?

Without proper long-term management, venous ulcers have high recurrence rates. However, continued compression therapy and treatment of underlying venous disease significantly reduces recurrence risk.

Do I have to wear compression stockings forever?

Yes, lifelong compression therapy is typically recommended to prevent ulcer recurrence. Modern compression stockings are much more comfortable and cosmetically acceptable than older versions.

Can venous ulcers be prevented?

Many venous ulcers can be prevented through early treatment of venous disease, consistent use of compression therapy, proper leg elevation, and prompt attention to any skin changes.

Are venous ulcers painful?

Venous ulcers can cause significant pain, particularly aching and throbbing that worsens with standing. Pain often improves as the ulcer heals and with proper compression therapy.

Venous Stasis Ulcer Treatment in Prattville, Alabama

Heal Chronic Leg Wounds and Prevent Them From Coming Back

Schedule an Appointment

Heal Stubborn Leg Ulcers and Reclaim Your Mobility

Venous stasis ulcers are the most common type of chronic leg wound, affecting over 500,000 Americans and causing significant pain, disability, and reduced quality of life. At Advanced Vascular and Wound Care in Prattville, Alabama, our board-certified vascular surgeons provide comprehensive treatment for venous stasis ulcers, combining advanced wound care with correction of underlying venous disease to achieve healing and prevent recurrence.

Don't let chronic leg ulcers control your life. Expert treatment can heal even long-standing wounds and help you return to normal activities with confidence.

Understanding Venous Reflux

When vein valves weaken or become damaged, blood flows backward instead of toward the heart. This causes pressure and blood pooling in the lower legs, which worsens over time without treatment.

Risk Factors for Venous Ulcers

Primary Risk Factors: History of deep vein thrombosis (blood clots), varicose veins, family history of venous disease, multiple pregnancies, and previous leg injuries.

Contributing Factors: Prolonged standing occupations, obesity, advanced age, sedentary lifestyle, and previous episodes of leg swelling or skin changes.

Medical Conditions: Heart failure, kidney disease, and other conditions that can worsen leg swelling and impair healing.

Symptoms of Venous Ulcers

Pain: Aching, throbbing leg pain that worsens with standing and improves with elevation.

Swelling: Chronic leg and ankle swelling that may worsen throughout the day.

Skin Changes: Brown discoloration (hemosiderin staining), thickened skin (lipodermatosclerosis), and white, scarred areas (atrophie blanche).

Drainage: Moderate to heavy wound drainage that may require frequent dressing changes.

How We Diagnose Venous Ulcers

Duplex Ultrasound:

Evaluates valve function and identifies reflux in superficial and deep veins

Arterial Testing:

Ensures good arterial blood flow before treatment

Wound Assessment:

Measures ulcer size, depth, drainage, and checks for infection

Medical History Review:

Identifies contributing conditions like diabetes, prior DVT, or heart failure

Comprehensive Treatment Approach

Compression Therapy

Improves venous return and reduces swelling.

Custom-fitted compression stockings
Multi-layer bandaging systems
Pneumatic compression devices for advanced edema

Venous Procedures

Treats underlying reflux that caused the ulcer.

Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT)
Radiofrequency ablation
Foam sclerotherapy

Advanced Wound Care

Promotes healing in slow-to-close wounds.

Debridement and antimicrobial dressings
Moisture-balanced wound dressings
Growth factor applications and skin substitutes
Negative pressure wound therapy

Edema Management

Reduces swelling and prevents tissue damage.

Elevation therapy
Manual lymphatic drainage
Compression wrapping and devices

Benefits of Treatment

Faster Healing:

Most ulcers heal in 3–6 months with proper care.

Lower Recurrence:

Combining vein treatment with compression reduces future ulcers.

Minimally Invasive:

Office-based vein treatments—no hospital stay required.

Comprehensive Support:

From wound care to follow-up and prevention.

Why Choose Advanced Vascular & Wound Care?

Dr. Justin Parden has extensive experience treating venous stasis ulcers with excellent healing rates and low recurrence rates. Our comprehensive approach addresses both the wound and underlying venous disease for optimal long-term outcomes.

Our Prattville facility features a dedicated wound care center with advanced compression fitting services, state-of-the-art wound care equipment, and coordination with vascular intervention capabilities for complete care.

Caring for Your Legs After Treatment

We’ll teach you how to:

Apply and care for compression stockings
Recognize early signs of skin breakdown
Prevent injury and skin irritation
Elevate your legs and manage swelling at home
Maintain follow-up care to prevent recurrence

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for venous ulcers to heal?

Most venous ulcers heal within 3-6 months with appropriate treatment, though healing time depends on ulcer size, duration, and underlying health factors. Some ulcers may heal faster while others take longer.
Will my venous ulcer come back after healing?

Without proper long-term management, venous ulcers have high recurrence rates. However, continued compression therapy and treatment of underlying venous disease significantly reduces recurrence risk.
Do I have to wear compression stockings forever?

Yes, lifelong compression therapy is typically recommended to prevent ulcer recurrence. Modern compression stockings are much more comfortable and cosmetically acceptable than older versions.
Can venous ulcers be prevented?

Many venous ulcers can be prevented through early treatment of venous disease, consistent use of compression therapy, proper leg elevation, and prompt attention to any skin changes.
Are venous ulcers painful?

Venous ulcers can cause significant pain, particularly aching and throbbing that worsens with standing. Pain often improves as the ulcer heals and with proper compression therapy.

Can I exercise with a venous ulcer?

Appropriate exercise is beneficial for venous circulation. Walking is particularly helpful, though activities should be modified to protect the healing ulcer and avoid trauma.
Will treating my varicose veins help heal my ulcer?

Yes, treating underlying venous reflux significantly improves ulcer healing rates and reduces recurrence risk. This is why we address both the wound and underlying venous disease.
How often do I need wound care appointments?

Initially, visits may be weekly or twice weekly. As healing progresses, appointments become less frequent. The schedule depends on wound severity and healing progress.
Can I shower with a venous ulcer?

Yes, with proper wound protection. We'll provide specific instructions for keeping your wound clean and dry while allowing normal hygiene activities.
What should I do if my ulcer gets worse?

Contact us immediately if you notice increased size, pain, drainage, odor, redness, or fever. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve outcomes.

Schedule Your Ulcer Consultation

Tired of managing a stubborn leg wound? Call (334) 659-4717 to schedule your venous ulcer consultation at Advanced Vascular & Wound Care—serving Prattville, Montgomery, and Central Alabama with advanced, compassionate wound care and vein treatment.

Call (334) 659-4717