Arterial Ulcer Treatment and Wound Care in Banning, CA

Common forms and signs of arterial wounds

Arterial wounds, sometimes called ischemic ulcers, most often affect the feet and lower legs. They may appear on the toes, heels, ankles, between the toes, or lower leg. Common signs can include:

• A round sore with raised or “punched-out” edges

• Skin around the area that looks shiny, tight, dry, or has less hair

• A foot that feels cool, looks pale or bluish, or changes color with position

• Pain in the foot or leg, sometimes worse at night or while resting

• A dark red, yellow, gray, or black wound

The wound may or may not be painful, especially if a person also has nerve damage. Some people have a combination of arterial and other wound problems, so appearance alone cannot identify the cause.

Why circulation assessment matters

Poor circulation can slow healing and may put tissue at risk. An evaluation helps determine whether reduced arterial blood flow is contributing to the wound and what care may be needed. It may include examining the wound and leg, checking pulses, and measuring blood flow with noninvasive tests. If more specialized vascular care is needed, the clinician may recommend further testing or a referral.

Do not use compression stockings or wraps unless a healthcare professional specifically recommends them. Compression can restrict blood flow in some people with arterial disease.

What arterial wound care may involve

Care depends on the wound and its cause. A treatment plan may include wound assessment, cleaning and dressings, guidance on protecting the area, and coordination with your other health care providers to address circulation or other health factors. Some people may need additional vascular evaluation or treatment to improve blood flow.

What you can do at home

While arranging an evaluation, protect the wound and follow any instructions you have received from your primary healthcare provider.

• Keep the wound clean, covered, and dry as directed.

• Check your feet and legs daily for new sores, skin-color changes, or other changes.

• Wear well-fitting shoes and socks, and avoid walking barefoot.

• Protect your feet from cold and injury.

• Don’t soak your feet in hot water.

• Don’t start compression, cut away tissue, or apply treatments unless a healthcare professional tells you to.

These steps do not replace professional care for an open or slow-healing arterial wound.

When to seek urgent care

Contact San Gorgonio Wound Care Center to discuss an evaluation promptly about any non-healing foot or leg wound.

Seek urgent medical care now for severe pain while resting, a foot that suddenly becomes cold, pale or numb, or tissue that turns black. Redness or swelling around the wound, increased drainage, a bad odor, fever, or chills can signal infection and also need prompt medical attention.