Unna Boot

An Unna Boot is gauze dressing filled with Zinc paste. You may also hear it called a “soft cast”. It supports vascular problems, helps with healing leg ulcers, swelling or lymphedema by giving compression to the areas that are wrapped.

About the Unna Boot:

• The dressing can be worn up to a week before it needs to be changed. An elastic or self-adhering bandage is placed over the dressing for compression
• If you have a leg ulcer, an absorbent dressing is used under the Unna Boot for wound drainage
• Unna Boots are placed on clean, dry skin. Your skin, and any ulcers, will be cleaned and dried
• You will need to be flexed to a 90-degree angle. Hold this position while the dressing is applied. You will be shown how to do this
• Keep the dressing dry
• Do not remove dressing unless told to do so by your provider
• If the Unna Boot feels too tight, elevate for 30 to 60 minutes

When should I contact my health care provider?

• If you have a pale or numb foot or toes, or a tingling feeling that does not go away
• If you experience pain in your foot or toes
• If you notice changes in your leg, foot or toe temperature (i.e., if they feel cold)
• If you have increased swelling in your leg
• If you experience increased pain in the leg or ulcer
• If you develop a fever or chills, or feel sick
• If you have any other changes in your health that cause you concern

We also offer comprehensive diabetes and nutrition consultations, as well as fitness and exercise programs. Please call for further information:

• Diabetes and Nutrition Services: 732-744-5944
• Health and Fitness: 732-632-1610