Bedsores, also called pressure ulcers and decubitus ulcers, occur from a decrease in the blood supply to an area of the body. Bedsores usually develop over bony parts of the body that don't have much fat to pad them. Bedsores can develop in anyone who sits or lies in one position for a long time. The treatment of bedsores consists of improving blood flow to pressure-prone areas and providing adequate nutrition.
Change Positions Frequently
According to the Mayo Clinic, it takes just a few hours of immobility for a pressure sore to begin to form. The American Cancer Society recommends a position change at least every two hours for a bedridden individual and every 15 minutes for an individual confined to a chair or wheelchair. Changing positions, such as switching from the left side to the back and then to the right side, helps to relieve pressure over the bony areas. According to FamilyDoctor.org, the website of the American Academy of Family Physicians, the bony areas include the heels, hips, shoulder blades; the base of the spine; the backs and sides of the knees; and the back of the head. Individuals in a chair or wheelchair can prevent and help treat bedsores by shifting their weight off of the bony areas frequently.
Supportive Devices
Supportive devices help to reduce pressure while lying down or sitting for long periods of time, the Mayo Clinic notes. A pressure-reducing mattress provides support and helps to reduce pressure over the bony areas. Types of pressure-reducing mattresses include foam, air, gel or water. A foam pad or pillow placed underneath the legs from the middle of the calf to the ankle, can help with the treatment of bedsores by improving blood flow and reducing pressure. A small pad or pillow placed between the knees and ankles prevents a bedsore by stopping the bones from rubbing together.
Chairs and wheelchairs need cushions that reduce pressure and provide maximum support and comfort for those who sit for long periods of time. Types of chair support include foam, gel, and water-filled or air-filled cushions.
Good Nutrition
According to the Mayo Clinic, a healthy diet prevents skin breakdown and assists in wound healing. The American Cancer Society recommends consuming foods high in protein such as fish, eggs, meats and milk. Other food sources with protein include beans, nuts, cottage cheese, peanut butter, yogurt and custards.
