Yet 95% of pressure sores are preventable**. Knowing the key ways to prevent pressure sores (also known as bed sores or pressure ulcers) is vital if you, or someone you are caring for, have reduced mobility.

Movement is key to tackling pressure sores. If the person cannot get up to move about to exercise regularly, make sure they reposition every couple of hours to reduce pressure on the skin.

The most common places for pressure sores to form are on the bottom, heels, hips, elbows, ankles, shoulders, spine and back of the head.

Someone who spends long periods of time in bed can even develop sores on their ears, so it is vital to look closely at the individual pressure points and regularly check them for any changes to the skin condition.

Whether in a wheelchair, seat or bed, constant support is needed to remove the pressure on the skin, as well as to provide greater comfort levels.

We created our Gel Ovation Dimensional Gel Pads to provide a soft, cooling and comforting layer of protection to protect against pressure sores.

Our pads are be used in rise and recline seating, wheelchairs, beds and medical equipment throughout the NHS and widely specified by Occupational Therapists and Nurses, as an essential part of its pressure care regime.

Our clinical gel technicians will custom-form our gel pads to fit the users’ exact body shape and requirements to ensure maximum comfort and protection.

Importantly, the use of our Dimensional Gel pads also speeds up the healing process, if pressure sores have already developed.

Pressure sores like moist conditions so the cleaner and drier the skin is, the less likely it is that they will develop. Use warm water and mild soap to clean the skin, and gently pat it dry with a towel to avoid irritating the skin.

We have made sure that all of our products are hypoallergenic, antibacterial, antifungal and are designed to promote air-flow for better ventilation and a cooling effect to tackle this common problem.

Staying well-hydrated gives your skin greater elasticity and stronger resistance to pressure sores, so be sure to have at least two litres of water a day and eat a good, healthy diet to prevent pressure sores from forming.

Find out more about our pressure care products.

* www.nhs.stopthepressure.co.uk/
** Model Systems Knowledge Transfer Center https://msktc.org/sci/factsheets/skincare/Preventing-Pressure-Sores