Arterial Ulcers

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Arterial ulcers are caused when the body is not able to properly deliver nutrient-rich blood to the lower extremities. An area of the skin is deprived of oxygen which kills the tissue causing the formation of an open wound. Additionally, the lack of blood supply can impact its ability to heal properly, resulting in an open wound or ulcer.

Arterial ulcer wounds are well-defined and typically found on the tips of the toes, the outer ankle, or any place where there is pressure from footwear. These ulcers can extend deep down to the tendon level, causing symptoms such as:

Yellow, brown, grey or black coloration of ulcers
Hair loss on the affected area
Pain around the wound
Affected limb feels cool to the touch.
An area turns red when hanging downward, but pales when elevated.

It is very important to seek expert medical care if you suspect you have or are concerned about an arterial ulcer.

Compression Therapy

When damaged, the body naturally reacts by rushing oxygen-rich blood to the affected area to help it heal. One of the difficulties in managing non-healing wounds and ulcers is that the condition is amplified by restricted blood flow to the tissue. Inadequate blood flow deprives your wound of what it needs to heal.

Treating Arterial Ulcers

The main goal in treating arterial ulcers is to increase circulation to the area. It is important to seek medical care from a specialist in wounds. Our wound specialist will properly examine your arterial wound and prescribe a treatment protocol. Treatments can include: