How to Prevent Leg Ulcers

Leg ulcers are open wounds that take more than six weeks to heal and are often caused by poor circulation, varicose veins, or underlying vein conditions. While they can affect anyone, preventing leg ulcers is possible with the right lifestyle habits and medical care.

Below, we explore how to prevent leg ulcers from developing, especially if you’re at higher risk.

Understanding Risk Factors

Leg ulcers are often linked to chronic venous insufficiency, where blood struggles to flow back to the heart.

Key risk factors include:

• Untreated varicose veins
• Limited mobility or prolonged standing
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Diabetes or vascular disease
• Previous leg ulcers

How Can You Prevent Leg Ulcers?

1. Stay Active

Regular, low-impact exercise, for example walking or swimming helps improve circulation and reduce pressure in the leg veins. Aim for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess weight puts additional strain on your veins. A balanced diet and active lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk of developing venous issues and ulcers.

3. Stop Smoking

Smoking damages blood vessels and impairs healing. Quitting improves circulation and lowers your risk of vascular complications, including ulcers.

4. Elevate Your Legs

Raising your legs above heart level for short periods during the day helps blood flow more easily, reducing venous pressure and swelling.

5. Wear Compression Stockings

Compression helps support vein function and may reduce your risk of developing leg ulcers, especially if you’ve already experienced varicose veins or swelling.

6. Care for Your Skin

Keep your skin clean and moisturised to avoid cracks or dryness. Even small cuts or scratches can lead to ulcers if circulation is poor.

7. Address Underlying Vein Problems

Conditions like varicose veins are a leading cause of leg ulcers. Treating these veins early with procedures such as Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) can help prevent ulcers from forming or recurring.

Treatment for Venous Leg Ulcers

We’ve been treating leg ulcers for over 20 years, and effective, long-term treatment is available. At VeinCentre, we focus on treating the root cause of venous leg ulcers which is varicose veins to reduce the chance of them returning.

How we ensure you’ll always Walk Out Happy:

• 1-hour walk-in, walk-out modern laser treatments
• Expert Vascular Consultants from start to finish
• UK’s largest vein specialist, 40+ clinics nationwide
• Appointments to suit you
• Transparent pricing

If you’ve had a leg ulcer or want to take preventative action, we’re here to help. Our friendly team is available Monday to Friday 8am–5pm and Saturday 9am–4pm. Call 01782 753960 for advice and support.