Leg Ulcer Treatments

A leg ulcer is essentially an open sore commonly located on the lower portion of the leg. This type of ulcer is slow to heal and tends to recur. Venous ulcers are by far the most common forms of leg ulcers and are often due to poor circulation, hypertension, medications and clotting disorders, as well as other contributing factors. When this type of ulcer begins to form, most treatments entail a "two-prong" approach -- medicinal and self-care. Together, these methods of recovery can go a long way to healing a leg ulcer.

Medicinal Treatment

• If you have a leg ulcer, start by seeking medical attention to initiate recovery. The reason for this is that a combination of medical supervision and prescription medication are often used as part of the healing process. The sore can then be examined and a treatment plan can be put into place that is specific to you and your condition.

  More often than not, treatment for a leg ulcer begins with some sort of compression treatment. First, the affected area of the skin is dressed with a medicated cream and sterile gauze. It is then wrapped with a compression device from your ankle up to just below the knee. Elastic bandages are extremely effective, as are compression stockings. Both aid in supporting the veins of the leg while helping with blood circulation within this area of the body.

  To further aid in healing, your doctor may give you a prescription for pentoxifylline. This medication aids in both circulation and healing. You may also be prescribed an anti-platelet or anti-clotting agent when the ulceration is due to a clotting disorder. However, if the ulcer is infected, a course of antibiotics are used to clear up the wound of the contagion.

  You may also need to go through a process of debridement, especially when the sore contains dead tissue. What this process serves to do is rid the area of any dead skin, so the area may properly heal.

Self-Care

• Once you've sought medical treatment, it is important to follow-up with self-care measures. One of the more important factors is rest, as you'll want to elevate the legs (preferably above the heart) periodically throughout the day to aid in circulation and reduce any inflammation.

  As you wait for the ulcer to heal, make sure to keep the sore clean. Warm, soapy water is by far the best, so clean the area daily. After the area is clean and dry, survey the actual condition of the wound, dress it as recommended and compress the area with either elastic bandages or compression stockings.

  To further aid in healing, drink plenty of fluids and eat fruits and vegetables daily. If your doctor has established any sort of fitness regimen, such as walking or biking, take part in these activities as directed.