Pressure sores are skin wounds resulting from prolonged pressure due to poor blood circulation. The areas where the bone is close to the skin are the most affected, such as the elbows, hips or heels. In addition, they are prevalent in people with nerve damage or paralysis. To reduce the risk of bedsores, an anti-bedsore cushion is essential. In addition, some models help to heal existing wounds. To better guide you in your choice, read this article.
Characteristics of an Anti-bedsore Cushion
The anti-bedsore cushion is one support that allows a bedridden person to remain immobile in a medical bed or wheelchair. It aims mainly at distributing the mass equitably to limit the prolonged pressures.
Criteria of Choice
Several criteria must be taken into account when selecting an anti-bedsore cushion.
Your weight
If you are overweight, choose a high-density pillow. If not, use a high-density pillow to avoid any contact with the base of the seat.
Your room temperature
Some pillows cannot adapt to body heat. Indeed, its components contribute to its heating and do not allow for a decrease in the temperature.
Your state of mobility
Choose multi-layer cushions if you have to lie down because you can no longer stand up.
The problem of incontinence
If you suffer from incontinence, opt for waterproof cushions. This prevents urine from seeping into the pillow structure and causing sores.
Types of anti-bedsore pillows
It is highly recommended to buy approved anti-bedsore cushions from a store dedicated to selling medical equipment.
Foam cushion
The foam cushion is light, affordable, comfortable, and easy to maintain. It also allows you to have a good posture. There are 3 models of foam cushion:
the one-piece version: with a thickness of 4 cm and a density of at least 25 kg/m³, its lightness can cause shearing if you make a lot of movements;
the waffle model: more efficient than the monoblock;
the memory foam cushion: it has a variable hardness and ensures a good distribution of the pressure.
Gel cushion
The gel cushion is made of silicone or polyurethane gel. The latter is usually wrapped in a waterproof material such as nylon or PVC. This cushion is known for its stability by preventing you from sliding around in your chair. However, the gel is heavy to carry because of the variation in its consistency. It is therefore essential to store it flat.
Air cushion
Having an inflatable air chamber, the air cushion is meant to relieve pressure. You can choose between:
The static air cushion that inflates with a bulb or pump and ;
The telescopic air cell or dry flotation cushion which keeps the effects of friction, maceration, and shearing to a minimum.
However, if wounds worsen, seek the advice of your physician and avoid self-medication.
Water cushion
This cushion is ideal for keeping cool, especially during the heat wave. It has a breathable outer lining to prevent sweat from seeping in and to keep you dry all day.
Alternating dynamic pressure cushion
If you have trouble adjusting your cushion, choose this type of cushion. Indeed, its quality lies in its capacity to distribute the pressure automatically. Therefore, it is convenient to avoid aggravating existing wounds and sleep better at night.
As each type of cushion has its own advantages and disadvantages, contact an orthopedic store for advice.
