Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease that is often associated with an increased prevalence of wounds and delayed healing. Use of the terminology ‘rheumatoid ulcer’ may fuel a myth that serves to blur our understanding of the problem. This article examines the prevalence and aetiology of lower limb ulceration in people with rheumatoid arthritis and questions whether attributing wounds to the underlying chronic disease contributes to our lack of knowledge and understanding in this area.