For many individuals with non-healing wounds, it may seem like the best option is to wait for the wound to heal. However, waiting can sometimes cause the wound to become deeper, larger and infected. Waiting to treat a non-healing wound can lead to significant complications and need for drastic intervention, such as hospitalization, surgery, and in some cases, amputation. 

This guide will give you the information you need to understand your options, select the appropriate treatment, and feel more confident and comfortable as you move forward with your care.

What is an ulcer?

An ulcer is a wound that has not healed in more than four weeks. There are 2 main types of vascular ulcers: Ischemic/arterial ulcers and venous ulcers. A venous stasis ulcer is a wound that is not healing due to the pooling of blood flow in the legs. This backup of blood flow in the veins causes an increased outward pressure applied to the skin. This then erodes away at the skin surface leading to the wound which then becomes an ulcer.  

New studies are emerging that suggest eating three or more servings of fruit and vegetables a day can help decreases your chance of developing peripheral artery disease or PAD. So, like your doctor, and mom, always told you, eat your vegetables!