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Pressure relief can be a very important issue for many patients who are either bed ridden or spend alot of time seated. Pressure ulcers also known as pressure sores are areas of damage to the skin and underlying tissue which can be very painful. These pressure sores are mainly caused by direct pressure when skin and tissue are directly compressed between bone and a support surface such as a bed or wheelchair. Blood is unable to circulate causing a decrease of oxygen and nutrients to the cells.

Also apart from direct pressure a patient may show symptoms of pressure sores due to shear which occurs when skin and tissue are pulled in different directions, for example when a person slips down a bed or is repositioned using a dragging motion. Also friction may cause one to start contracting pressure sores for example when the skin rubs against a surface, for example the heels rubbing against a sheet.

The greatest areas at risk are those where there are weight bearing bones near the surface of the skin, for example under the bones in the buttocks – the ischial tuberosities. The shoulders, hips and heels are also at increased risk. Both people at risk and their carers need to be aware of the importance of pressure ulcer prevention.

Therefore one should take care and invest in products which can stop pressure sores from developing. Below is a short list of items that may aid in preventing such pressure ulcers:

Pressure Relief Mattresses
Pressure Relief Mattresses come in various grades according to the severity of the patient and the risk level of contracting pressure sores. Check out our Hospital Beds and Mattress section for more information.

Cushioning
Proper cushioning for wheelchair patients is highly important so as not to develop sores on the buttocks area as this is regarded as the most painful area. check out our All About Cushions article for more information.

Heel Protection
An area rarely known to people as an area which may develope sores, this area of the body is a high risk of sores due to the little ammount of tissue around the ankle bone. Various types of heel protectors are available according to the severity of the sores. Check out our Products page for more information.

If you have any further queries you can Contact Us and we will be more than happy to help.