5 Ways to Prevent Pressure Ulcers When You’re Stuck in Bed

Being confined to your bed is never fun. Apart from anything else, being stuck in a lying position puts you at risk of developing pressure ulcers. Beyond pain and discomfort, pressure ulcers can lead to serious complications, so make sure you follow these five tips to help avoid suffering from them.

1. Change Positions

Pressure ulcers form when pressure points develop at certain points across your body. If you move around in bed, pressure points aren’t around long enough to develop into pressure ulcers, so try changing position at least every few hours. This is much easier when you have an adjustable bed – you can reduce pressure at the touch of a button.

2. Keep Clean and Dry

Pressure ulcers are significantly less likely to develop when you keep your skin clean and dry. You’ll probably need another person to help you, but this is no time to be self-conscious. Clean the body every day using a wash rag and some warm water, then pat the skin dry with a towel. Don’t rub too hard – this can irritate the skin.

3. Avoid Friction

Pressure ulcers are more likely to develop when the skin is rubbed excessively, so you’ll want to avoid friction. This is why it’s better to change your position using an adjustable bed rather than having to pull yourself up and down.

4. Perform Exercises

The idea of exercising might sound a touch absurd if you’re confined to bed, but there are still light exercises you can perform without even getting both feet on the ground. Simple motion exercises can help reduce the risk of bed sores. Try lifting each limb in turn and holding it up for 10 seconds. Repeat a few times throughout the day.

5. Eat Well

People often eat poorly when they’re stuck in bed, but you should make sure you take in a balanced diet if you’re worried about pressure ulcers. Without enough vitamin C and zinc, as well as plenty of protein, your body won’t be as good at combatting pressure ulcers.