Areas at High Risk of Developing Pressure Sores
Areas where bones are close to the surface (called "bony prominences") and areas that are under the most pressure are at greatest risk for developing pressure sores.
In bed, body parts can be padded with pillows or foam to keep bony prominences (areas where bones are close to the skin surface) free of pressure. Place a pillow between the knees while sleeping on your side to prevent skin-to-skin contact and increase air circulation between your legs.
Illustrations from the Northwest Regional SCI System (2006).
More in the Skincare and Pressure Sores series:
- Causes and Risks of Pressure Sores
- Preventing Pressure Sores
- How to Do Pressure Reliefs (Weight Shifts)
- Building Skin Tolerance
- Recognizing and Treating Pressure Sores
Authorship
This brochure was developed by the SCI Model System Dissemination Committee in collaboration with the University of Washington Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center. Portions of this document were adapted from materials produced by the SCI Model Systems.
Source: Our health information content is based on research evidence and/or professional consensus and has been reviewed and approved by an editorial team of experts from the SCI Model Systems.