Most wheelchair users think that getting pressure sores are common and cannot be avoided. However, pressure sores prevention in wheelchair users is possible. Keep reading to find out how to prevent pressure sores in wheelchair users. We have also compiled a list of products to help you stay comfortable in your wheelchair and avoid developing pressure sores.

Wheelchair Pressure Sores

Wheelchair users have restricted mobility, sensory perception, and activity. There would be consistent pressure on some body parts (such as the buttocks, arms, feet, and back). Therefore, wheelchair users have a high possibility of developing pressure sores.

Further, if a person has diabetes or suffers from any other chronic illness, healing can be difficult, and thus, pressure sores can be potentially fatal for him.

How Can You Prevent Pressure Sores In Wheelchair Users?

If you (or someone you know) need to be confined to a wheelchair for an extended period of time, follow these guidelines to avoid pain and pressure sores:

●Appropriate Wheelchair: Make sure that your wheelchair is customized according to your size. Otherwise, you may not be comfortable in it and will have a risk to develop pressure sores.

●Keep Changing Your Position: You should shift your weight from the right to the left side or vice versa every 15 to 20 minutes. It will relieve pressure and promote blood circulation throughout the body, preventing pressure ulcers from forming.

●Personal Hygiene: Cleanse and dry the skin and moisturize it daily to maintain it clean and soft. Also, use a body powder to keep skin dry and reduce friction. In addition, keep your skin clean of pee and feces in particular.

●A Balanced Diet: Make sure to have a healthy diet rich in protein, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins, and stay hydrated. It will promote healing and new cell production.

●Padding In The Wheelchair: You can have additional padding in your wheelchair by adding cushions, seat pads, wheelchair arm pads, and foot plate covers.

Products For Wheelchair Pressure Sores Prevention

People who use wheelchairs regularly can suffer from persistent discomfort that can lead to pressure sores. However, Down-Under-Wool's Medical Sheepskin products are perfect for improved comfort for wheelchair users and can help you in pressure sore prevention.

Wheelchair Pressure Sore Prevention Products by Down-Under Wool are manufactured from premium Australian HiTemp UR Medical Sheepskin to provide your wheelchair with a whole new level of comfort. Furthermore, they offer pressure sore prevention products in various colors (beige, green, and blue); therefore, you can choose according to your preference.

● Foot Plate Covers

You can use Shear Comfort Foot Plate Covers barefoot or with socks or footwear, and your feet will not get pressure sores.

● Arm Pads

HiTemp Medical Sheepskin Wheelchair Arm Pads are designed to fit on the arms of the wheelchair with velcro connectors. The wool will absorb moisture and reduce pressure.

● Seat Pad

HiTemp UR Medical Sheepskin Wheelchair Seat Pads are held in place by nylon straps with Velcro straps. You can use one for the seat and the other for the back. Its merino wool will increase comfort, redistribute pressure, and rapidly absorb moisture that can result in avoiding pressure sores.

Conclusion

Wheelchair pressure sores can be challenging to heal from; therefore, it is advisable to avoid them. For that, you should maintain personal hygiene, have a healthy lifestyle, and continually change your seating positions. In addition to these, you can use Down-Under Wool's Medical Sheepskin products such as seat pads or overlays, armrest support, and footplate covers for wheelchair pressure sores prevention.