For individuals who use a wheelchair for significant parts of the day, ensuring long-term health and comfort is a top priority. While a wheelchair provides invaluable mobility, prolonged sitting carries a risk of developing pressure injuries, also known as pressure sores. The good news is that with the right knowledge and equipment, these injuries are almost entirely preventable.
What is a Pressure Injury?
A pressure injury is damage to the skin and underlying tissue caused by prolonged, uninterrupted pressure on a specific area. This pressure reduces blood flow, leading to tissue breakdown. For wheelchair users, the most vulnerable areas are bony prominences like the tailbone, hips, and buttocks. Friction from sliding in the seat and moisture can also increase the risk. If not managed, these injuries can become severe, causing significant pain and health complications.
Key Strategies for Prevention
A proactive approach is the best defence against pressure injuries. This involves a combination of specialised equipment, regular movement, and healthy habits.
1. Use a Specialised Pressure Care Cushion
A high-quality pressure care cushion is not a luxury; it is an essential clinical tool. Standard foam seat pads are not sufficient. A specialised cushion is engineered to distribute body weight evenly and reduce pressure on vulnerable spots. These cushions come in various materials, including high-density foam, gel, and air-cell designs, offering different levels of pressure relief to match an individual's risk level.
2. Ensure Correct Seating and Posture
The way you sit in your wheelchair has a major impact on pressure distribution. An ill-fitting chair can create pressure "hot spots." It is strongly recommended that anyone using a wheelchair long-term undergoes a professional seating assessment with an occupational therapist.
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Your hips should be positioned right at the back of the seat.
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Your back should be well-supported to maintain correct spinal alignment.
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Footplates must be adjusted to ensure your thighs are horizontal, helping to spread your weight correctly.
3. Reposition Your Body Frequently
Regularly shifting your weight is crucial to restore blood flow.
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If you are able, perform small weight shifts every 15 to 30 minutes.
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This can be as simple as leaning to one side, then the other, or leaning forward to briefly lift your buttocks off the seat.
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If you cannot reposition yourself independently, a caregiver should assist you. Some wheelchairs also have tilt-in-space or recline functions that a caregiver can use to change your position and relieve pressure.
4. Implement Daily Skin Checks
Make checking your skin part of your daily routine.
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Carefully inspect high-risk areas for early warning signs, such as patches of persistent redness, discolouration, swelling, or hardened skin.
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Keeping your skin clean, dry, and well-moisturised helps maintain its strength and resilience.
5. Focus on Good Nutrition and Hydration
Your skin's health is directly linked to your diet. A balanced intake of protein, vitamins, and minerals provides the building blocks for healthy skin. Staying hydrated is also vital for keeping skin supple and strong.
Your comfort and health are our priority.
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