Venous Leg Ulcer Treatment
Specialized care for venous wounds in Boise and the Treasure Valley
What is a Venous Leg Ulcer?
A venous leg ulcer is a chronic, slow-healing wound that develops on the lower leg, usually between the knee and ankle. These wounds are caused by poor blood circulation in the leg veins, a condition known as chronic venous insufficiency.
Venous ulcers are the most common type of leg ulcer, accounting for up to 80% of all leg wounds. They typically appear on the inner part of the leg, just above the ankle, and can range from small sores to large, painful wounds that significantly impact quality of life.
Understanding Venous Insufficiency
Healthy leg veins have one-way valves that help push blood back up toward the heart. When these valves become damaged or weakened, blood can flow backward and pool in the lower legs. This condition, called chronic venous insufficiency, leads to:
Swelling (Edema)
Fluid buildup in the legs and ankles, especially after standing or sitting for long periods.
Skin Changes
Darkening, hardening, or discoloration of the skin around the ankles (stasis dermatitis).
Itching & Irritation
Persistent itching that can lead to scratching and skin breakdown.
Wound Development
Eventually, the damaged skin breaks down, forming an open wound that struggles to heal.
Risk Factors for Venous Ulcers
- History of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
- Varicose veins
- Previous leg injuries or surgeries
- Obesity
- Prolonged standing or sitting
- Multiple pregnancies
- Older age
- Family history of venous disease
Dr. Bennett's Treatment Approach
Effective venous ulcer treatment requires addressing both the wound itself and the underlying venous insufficiency. Dr. Bennett's comprehensive approach includes:
Compression is the cornerstone of venous ulcer treatment. Specialized compression bandages or stockings help push blood back up toward the heart, reduce swelling, and create an optimal environment for healing. Dr. Bennett will determine the right level of compression for your specific needs.
Removal of dead or unhealthy tissue from the wound bed promotes healing by stimulating the growth of new, healthy tissue. Dr. Bennett performs gentle, effective debridement during your home visits.
Specialized dressings maintain the ideal moisture balance for healing, manage drainage, and protect the wound from infection. The type of dressing is tailored to your wound's specific characteristics.
Regular leg elevation helps reduce swelling and improve blood flow. Dr. Bennett will provide specific guidance on how often and how long to elevate your legs for optimal results.
What to Expect During Treatment
Venous ulcers can take time to heal, but with proper treatment, most wounds show significant improvement within weeks. Dr. Bennett will:
- Perform a thorough initial assessment of your wound and vascular health
- Develop a personalized treatment plan
- Schedule regular follow-up visits to monitor progress
- Adjust treatment as your wound heals
- Provide education on preventing recurrence
Schedule Your Evaluation
Venous ulcers respond well to proper treatment. Don't wait—schedule your evaluation today.
Request AppointmentService Area
Dr. Bennett provides mobile wound care throughout:
- Boise
- Meridian
- Nampa
- Caldwell
- Eagle
- Mountain Home
- Ada, Canyon & Elmore Counties
Medicare Coverage
Venous ulcer treatment is typically covered by Medicare Part B. Dr. Bennett's office handles all insurance verification and billing.
Leg Wounds That Won't Heal Need Expert Care
Dr. Bennett brings specialized venous ulcer treatment directly to your home.
Schedule Your Wound Evaluation