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Pressure Sores
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Skin Hair Nails

Pressure Sores

Pressure sores are areas of damaged skin caused by prolonged immobility, which can lead to serious, life-threatening infections if not managed early.

Overview

Pressure sores are areas of damaged skin that occur when a person stays in one position for too long. They commonly form where bones are close to the skin, such as the ankles, back, elbows, heels, and hips. These sores are a particular concern for individuals in nursing homes, those who are bedridden, or those who use a wheelchair and are unable to change their position.

Prevention

You can help prevent the development of pressure sores by:

  • Keeping skin clean and dry.
  • Changing your position every two hours.
  • Using pillows and products designed to relieve pressure.

Treatment

There are a variety of treatments available for pressure sores. Because advanced sores are slow to heal, early treatment is considered the best approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key prevention strategies include regularly changing position (at least every two hours for bedridden individuals, and every 15-30 minutes for those in wheelchairs), keeping the skin clean and dry, and inspecting the skin daily for any signs of redness or irritation. Using pressure-relieving devices like specialized mattresses, cushions, or heel protectors can also help distribute pressure evenly. Ensure good nutrition and hydration, as these are vital for skin health and healing.
Yes, various specialized products are designed to prevent pressure sores. These include alternating pressure mattresses, low-air-loss mattresses, gel or foam overlays, and specialized cushions for wheelchairs. For specific areas, heel protectors, elbow pads, and donut cushions can help. The choice of equipment depends on an individual's mobility, risk level, and the advice of a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or wound care nurse.
Early warning signs include a persistent red spot on the skin that doesn't blanch (turn white) when pressed, skin that feels warmer or cooler than surrounding areas, tenderness, pain, or itching in a specific area. In individuals with darker skin tones, the area might appear purple, blue, or darker than the surrounding skin. Common areas to check are bony prominences like the heels, ankles, hips, tailbone, elbows, and the back of the head.
You should seek medical attention immediately if you notice any signs of infection, such as increasing pain, redness, swelling, warmth around the sore, pus-like drainage, or a fever. Also consult a doctor if the sore is getting larger, deeper, or if it doesn't show signs of healing within a few days of starting home care. Advanced pressure sores can lead to serious, life-threatening infections if not treated promptly.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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