A pressure sore is an injury to the skin and the tissue beneath it. Sitting or lying in the same position for long periods can reduce blood flow to an area, limiting oxygen and essential nutrients needed to maintain healthy tissue. When tissue is deprived for too long, it begins to die, leading to the development of pressure sores.
Some of the most common causes of pressure sores, aside from prolonged pressure, include friction, shear, temperature, and moisture. It is often difficult to identify a single cause, as pressure damage usually results from a combination of these factors.
For individuals who remain seated for extended periods and are unable to reposition themselves to relieve pressure, the risk of pressure-related problems increases. In these circumstances, choosing an appropriate seating system to ensure correct postural support and effective pressure care is vital.
It’s important to be able to recognise a pressure sore when you see one, especially when a loved one or dependent is relying on you. The sufferer may report pain and itchiness in a certain area. However, it may be that this is one pain among many or they cannot verbally communicate the issue.
In these cases, be on the lookout for discoloured skin (red on white skin, purple or blue on Black or Brown skin). The feel of these patches might be hard, warm or tender. While they often develop gradually, they can come on within an afternoon. They form particularly on bony areas around the joints, including the hips, tailbone, elbows, and more.
There are many simple means people can reduce the risk of pressure sores. For instance, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet is important for skin health. Further, keeping bedding clean and smooth will reduce friction on the body.
Keep vulnerable areas clean and avoid the use of substances that dry out the skin. This may include certain perfumes and soap, which may dampen the surface of the skin temporarily but dry out the pores. Instead, use creams and moisturisers.
Those restricted to a bed or chair are the most likely to suffer from pressure sores. That’s why it is important that during care, repositioning the body is key. This prevents pressure buildup in a single area. When doing so, it is important that vulnerable spots are not dragged or otherwise rubbed. It may be that repositioning is difficult to do without assistance. If both carers or family members are unavailable, it may be best to look into a more advanced solution.
It means tilting the entire seat system backward or forward as one unit, without changing the angle between your hips, knees, and torso. Riser recliners, care beds, care chairs and they often come fitted with tilt-in-space functionality.
Tilt-In-Space furniture accommodates every pressure-relieving position, from raised leg rest to upright, providing the widest possible range of pressure relief.
Our entire Care Chair range is equipped with tilt-in space functionality. They are also highly customisable and so fit for all sorts of body types. Our selection of Riser Recliners also benefits from Tilt-In-Space, as one reclines and the legs come up, the angle of the hips and back is always kept perfect.
For further information, don’t hesitate to contact our team. For Care Chairs, many of our Tilt-In-Space Chairs are tailor-made and built for you. Therefore, don’t hesitate to book a consultation so we can find the very best solution for you!
