How to Prevent Bed Sores

Articles

While spending more time in bed due to illness or limited mobility can feel like a safe place to rest, it can sometimes lead to unexpected discomfort. One of the most common concerns for those who are less mobile is the development of pressure ulcers, more commonly known as bed sores.

The thought of bed sores can feel uncomfortable, but the good news is that with the right knowledge and a few small changes to your daily routine, they are largely preventable.

In this guide, we’ll explore what bed sores are, the risks they pose, and practical steps you can take to stay comfortable and healthy at home.

What are Bed Sores?

In simple terms, a bed sore is an area of damage to the skin and the tissue underneath. They occur when constant pressure is applied to a specific part of the body, usually bony spots such as the heels, hips, or base of the spine. This pressure reduces blood flow to the skin, which can cause pain and inflammation.

According to recent data from the Spinal Injuries Association, over 700,000 people are affected by pressure ulcers in the UK each year. They can develop surprisingly quickly, sometimes in just a few hours, which is why keeping a close eye on your skin is so important.

The Dangers of Bed Sores

Understanding the dangers of bed sores helps us see why early action is so vital. If left untreated, what starts as a small patch of red or discoloured skin can develop into a deeper wound, causing more serious issues such as:

• Risk of Infection: Open sores can become infected, leading to conditions like cellulitis or even sepsis in serious cases.
• Extended Bed Rest: A severe sore can lead to weeks or months of further immobility while the skin heals.
• Impact on Wellbeing: Beyond the physical pain, they can cause a significant amount of stress for both you and your carers.

How to Prevent Bed Sores

The most effective way to stay healthy and comfortable is through a proactive, gentle approach. By making these small habits part of your daily routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of skin irritation.

Keep on Moving

Advice from the National Wound Care Strategy Programme suggests a move towards individualised repositioning. Rather than following strict timetabled movements, which can often feel a bit demanding or disruptive to your day, the goal is to listen to your body and shift your weight whenever you feel a hint of discomfort.

Even small movements can make a significant difference in preventing bed sores. If you find it difficult to move manually, simple actions like tilting your hips or repositioning your legs can help. This is where the gentle lift of an adjustable bed or riser recliner chair becomes so valuable; at the touch of a button, you can redistribute your weight, ease pressure on sensitive areas, and keep your circulation flowing freely without any strain.

Daily Checks

Try to make a quick skin check part of your morning or evening routine. It only takes a moment but offers great peace of mind. You’re looking for any changes in how your skin looks or feels, such as:

• Colour changes: Redness that doesn’t go away, even when pressed, or purple/blue tones on darker skin.
• Temperature: Areas that feel unusually warm or cool to the touch.
• Texture: Any swelling, sponginess, or unusual hardness.

If you spot something that doesn’t look quite right, catching it early is the best way to ensure it stays a minor issue.

Supporting Your Skin on the Inside

Your skin needs the right fuel to stay resilient and strong. Eating a balanced diet rich in protein, found in things like lean meats, beans, eggs, or dairy, helps your skin repair itself more effectively.

Staying well-hydrated is just as important. Drinking plenty of water keeps your skin supple, making it less likely to become fragile and increasing the risk of irritation. If you find plain water a bit boring, a nice cup of herbal tea or a glass of squash counts too!

Keeping Skin Clean and Nourished

Maintaining a healthy skin barrier is a simple but vital step in preventing bed sores. The goal is to keep your skin clean and dry, as excess moisture can sometimes make the skin more prone to damage.

When washing, try to use mild, pH-neutral soaps that won’t strip away your skin’s natural oils. If your skin feels a little dry or flaky, applying a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser can provide a protective layer, keeping your skin soft and better able to handle the pressure of daily rest.

How Mobility Furniture Protects Your Skin

While standard beds and chairs are designed for the average person, our bespoke mobility furniture is tailored specifically to your needs. Here is how our furniture works alongside you to keep your skin healthy and comfortable.

Effortless Repositioning

As we’ve established, the key to preventing bed sores is regular movement. However, when mobility is limited, shifting your weight can feel like an increasingly strenuous task.

With an adjustable bed or riser recliner, you can change your position as often as you like without any physical strain. By gently raising the head or foot of the bed, you can shift pressure away from vulnerable areas like the sacrum and heels, ensuring no single part of your body bears your weight for too long.

Reducing Shear

One of the hidden dangers of bed sores is ‘shear’, which happens when you slide down a bed, causing the skin to pull against the sheets.

Many adjustable beds feature a knee break function. This slightly raises your knees, creating a secure cradle for your body. This simple adjustment prevents you from sliding down when sitting up to read or watch TV, protecting your skin from the friction that can lead to soreness.

Promoting Healthy Circulation

Strong circulation is your skin’s best friend. By using the leg-lift feature on a chair or bed, you can comfortably elevate your feet. This helps reduce swelling oedema and encourages oxygen-rich blood to reach your skin cells, keeping them resilient and better able to heal.

We understand that choosing the right furniture is a personal decision. That’s why we offer a free, no-obligation home trial. It’s the perfect way to see how an adjustable bed or riser recliner can support your comfort and independence in the familiar surroundings of your own home.