Venous & Arterial Ulcers

Venous and arterial ulcers are types of vascular wounds—chronic skin breakdowns caused by poor blood circulation. These ulcers are slow to heal, prone to infection, and can lead to serious complications if not treated properly.

At Miracle Mobile Wound Care, we specialize in the management of venous and arterial leg ulcers in the Santa Monica, CA, area. Our skilled wound care professionals deliver expert, personalized treatment in the comfort of your own home, reducing the risk of complications and improving long-term outcomes.

What Are Venous Ulcers?

Venous ulcers develop when blood flow from the legs back to the heart is compromised. As blood pools in the veins, pressure builds and damages the surrounding skin and tissue, leading to ulcer formation—most commonly around the lower legs and ankles. These wounds are often shallow but slow to heal and can become chronic without proper care.

What Are Arterial Ulcers?

Arterial ulcers occur when narrowed or blocked arteries limit blood flow to the lower limbs. Without enough oxygen-rich blood, the skin and tissue begin to break down, typically resulting in deep, painful ulcers on the feet or toes. These ulcers are also slow to heal and are at high risk for infection, tissue death, and possible amputation if left untreated.

How to Tell the Difference: Symptoms of Vascular Ulcers

Recognizing early signs of venous or arterial ulcers can help you seek treatment before complications arise. Common symptoms include:

• Venous Ulcer Symptoms:
  • Leg swelling or cramping
  • Discoloration (red, purple, or brown) and thickened skin
  • Varicose veins
  • Shallow wounds with irregular borders
  • Itching or burning around the wound
  • Oozing or bleeding
  • Warm skin near the ulcer
• Arterial Ulcer Symptoms:
  • Pale, cool feet
  • Sharp or aching pain, especially when elevating the legs or at night
  • Deep wounds, often between the toes or on pressure points
  • Wounds with dark red, yellow, gray, or black tissue
  • Shiny or tight-looking skin around the area
  • Little to no bleeding
  • Exposed tendons or muscle in severe cases

If you’re unsure about your wound type, our mobile team or your physician can help assess and provide an accurate diagnosis.

At-Home Care for Venous and Arterial Ulcers

Proper wound care at home is essential for managing vascular ulcers. While both types require consistent attention, their care plans differ:

• Venous Ulcer Care Tips:
  • Clean the wound gently and regularly
  • Apply antibacterial ointment as directed
  • Wear compression stockings or wraps to improve blood flow
  • Elevate legs throughout the day to reduce swelling
  • Take prescribed antibiotics if needed
• Arterial Ulcer Care Tips:
  • Avoid compression therapy—it may worsen circulation
  • Clean the wound with gentle pressure and keep it covered with a moist, non-adherent dressing
  • Apply an antibacterial cream or gel daily
  • Stop smoking, eat a heart-healthy diet, and stay physically active to improve circulation

Regular visits with a wound care provider are key to tracking healing and preventing infection.

Complications of Untreated Vascular Ulcers

Without professional care, venous and arterial ulcers can result in serious health risks. Common complications include:

• Infection
• Sepsis
• Gangrene
• Chronic pain and reduced mobility
• Amputation (in severe arterial cases)

If your wound shows signs of infection, discoloration, increased pain, or has not improved, contact our team immediately for evaluation.