Shin Ulcers: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Pretibial (Shin) Ulcers Overview

Open sores on the front lower leg, often due to poor circulation from:

• Arterial disease (narrowed arteries)
• Venous disease (impaired venous return)
• Diabetes (nerve/vessel damage)

Other Causes

• Trauma (laceration, puncture)
• Infection
• Pressure sores (prolonged pressure)

Symptoms

Pain, interference with walking, risk of infection.

Treatment (depends on cause)

• Wound care (cleaning, dressings)
• Medications (antibiotics, pain relief)
• Surgery (improve circulation, debridement)
• Lifestyle changes (weight loss, exercise, smoking cessation)

Prevention

• Manage underlying conditions (diabetes, arterial disease)
• Avoid leg trauma
• Good foot care (clean, dry, proper shoes)
• Healthy diet, regular exercise, quit smoking

Early medical evaluation prevents complications.