Lower Leg, Ankle & Foot Injuries/Conditions - Positioning

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Positioning - calf ulcer

Printed From: CyberPT - Your Online Physical Therapy Resource
Category: Patient Forum
Forum Name: Lower Leg, Ankle & Foot Injuries/Conditions
Forum Description: Patients can post questions and experiences about lower leg, ankle & foot injuries/conditions.
URL: http://www.cyberpt.com/ptforum/forum_posts.asp?TID=918
Printed Date: Jul 08 2025 at 5:45am
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Topic: Positioning - calf ulcer

Posted By: Ask a PT
Subject: Positioning - calf ulcer
Date Posted: Nov 13 2011 at 10:16pm

Our user asked: "Hello - my father (age 75) recently had a bypass operation on his right leg due to poor venous circulation. We are told that the operation was a success; however, because he waited so long to get treatment, he now has a 4.5" stage III ulcer on the back of his calf. He is being seen in a wound clinic and they tell us he is healing. He is not diabetic, thank goodness. My question - his lower leg still swells at times - we know he needs to elevate his leg but we are having a hard time figuring out how to do this because nothing can touch the back of his calf. Can you recommend positioning equipment for this situation? Many thanks!"

Ask a PT Response: "I would probably utilize a half or full roll where the back of the knee is supported and have the heels supported by a few pillows to allow for the legs to be elevated without contact of the calf. Here is a link to what I mean as far as rollers:
http://www.walmart.com/search/search-ng.do?search_query=Foam%20Roller&adid=22222222220018250931&wmlspartner=wmtlabs&wl0=b&wl1=g&wl2=&wl3=8001204734&wl4=4 - http://www.walmart.com/search/search-ng.do?search_query=Foam%20Roller&adid=22222222220018250931&wmlspartner=wmtlabs&wl0=b&wl1=g&wl2=&wl3=8001204734&wl4= "