A wound on your lower leg that refuses to heal may be a sign of an underlying vein condition known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). This common circulatory disorder affects approximately 25 million adults in the United States and is one of the leading causes of chronic leg ulcers.
At Memphis Vein Center, Dr. Kishore K. Arcot and our team are here to help you understand the connection between venous insufficiency and leg ulcers. We also offer proper treatment and long-term relief.
CVI occurs when the veins in the legs have difficulty sending blood back to the heart. Normally, tiny valves inside the veins keep blood moving upward, but when these valves weaken or become damaged, blood can begin pooling in the lower legs.
Over time, this increased pressure inside the veins can lead to symptoms such as:
If left untreated, CVI can progress and eventually contribute to the formation of venous leg ulcers.
When blood pools in the lower legs for extended periods, pressure builds within the veins and surrounding tissues. This can reduce oxygen and nutrient delivery to the skin, making it more fragile and vulnerable to breakdown.
Even a small scrape or irritation may develop into an open sore that heals very slowly. These leg ulcers most commonly appear near the ankles, especially on the inner lower leg.
Suspect a venous ulcer if your sore:
Circulation plays a critical role in healing; treating venous insufficiency can help heal ulcers.
Several factors can increase your risk of developing venous insufficiency and related ulcers, including:
If you have untreated varicose veins or chronic lymphedema (swelling), you’re also at higher risk.
Chronic leg ulcers can significantly affect your quality of life. You may experience limited mobility, disrupted sleep, and increased infection risk.
The good news is that modern vein treatments available at Memphis Vein Center can improve circulation and support healing. By treating the underlying venous insufficiency, our patients experience reduced swelling and discomfort.
We can help improve your skin health, quickly heal your ulcers, and reduce your risk of recurrence.
Treatment typically focuses on improving blood flow and reducing pressure in the affected veins. Depending on the severity of the condition, Dr. Arcot may recommend:
Our specialists can perform an ultrasound evaluation to determine the extent of venous disease and create your own personal treatment plan.
If you have a leg ulcer that isn’t healing, it’s a sign that something more serious is happening within your vascular system. We encourage you to seek care early to help prevent complications and improve your healing outcomes.
If you’re experiencing persistent swelling, skin changes, varicose veins, or a wound that doesn't heal, a vein evaluation may help identify the underlying cause and put you on the path toward healthier circulation and improved comfort. Call Memphis Vein Center in Memphis, Tennessee, or request an appointment online.
