• PRIMARY
  
• * Compliance with compression therapy
  
• * Compliance with exercise presriptions
  
• * Leg ulcer recurrence
  

• * time to next ulcer / ulcer size and time to heal in case of recurrence /duration of ulcer free periods
  
• * evaluation of the cost effectiveness of the program
  

The project is a multi centre study, using a randomized controlled design. Patients in the study (n=380) are equally randomized to either the experimental or the control group. Patients in the intervention group receive counseling during a period of six months, in line with the Lively Legs program. Patients in the control group receive regular care. Recruitment takes place within a period of nine months. Data are collected at baseline, directly after the intervention period at 6 months, and at follow-ups at 12 and 18 months. Quality of life is additionally assessed at 3, 9 and 15 months.

The population for this study consists of leg ulcer patients, suffering from peripheral circulation disorders of venous or mixed (venous and arterial) origin. The population is restricted to patients treated at outpatient clinics for dermatology.

Individual counseling is performed by nurses, based on the Lively Legs lifestyle-program for leg ulcer patients. This evidence-based program was systematically developed using the Intervention Mapping framework, thus integrating scientific evidence, relevant theories and patient and care provider expertise. The program aims at improved compliance with compression therapy and prescribed exercise level in all patients.

Social Cognitive Theory provides the theoretical framework and the core methods for the Lively Legs program. Nurses will perform the central role as health counselor. In a maximum of six consultations, they will offer tailored counseling, including compliance and physical activity assessment, identification of relevant determinants of behavior, goal setting, and the application of methods and strategies from the Lively Legs program