A venous ulcer is a painful open sore, usually on the lower leg or ankle. Venous ulcers usually develop as a result of poor circulation and are common in people with varicose veins. They may occur spontaneously or after a minor injury. Venous ulcers typically appear as a shallow, pink area of broken skin; sometimes the skin surrounding the ulcer is swollen, too.
Treatment usually involves cleaning and dressing the ulcer regularly and using compression bandages or support stockings to improve circulation.
If the ulcer has become infected, antibiotics may be prescribed. With treatment, most ulcers heal within a few months.