'It hurts when I walk:' venous stasis disease--differential diagnosis and treatment.

Venous stasis disease represents 70% to 90% of lower-extremity ulcers treated. Venous hypertension brought about by inadequate venous return and defective valvular systems is the main culprit. Positive outcomes in patient care can be achieved by an ongoing partnership between the health care provider and the patient to control the disease and its effects. Appropriate assessment and management require a long-term commitment by a multidisciplinary team to encourage and enhance patient compliance and to prevent recurrence. In the next issue: arterial disease.