The relationship between pain and leg ulcers: a critical review.

Leg ulceration may have a profound impact on the individual: in some cases activities of living become subservient to the degree of pain experienced. Pain control, which is viewed as a key function in health care, appears marginalized in leg ulcer management. Pain can be intense, bringing psychological implications for the patient. Knowledge deficiency in practitioners' management of venous and arterial leg ulcers was identified in the literature. This may lead to unnecessary pain caused by inappropriate dressings, misdiagnosis, or poor technique in the use of compression therapy. A holistic approach to the patient using evidence-based standardized practice may improve the patient's experience.