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Pressure Relieving Exercises

From , former About.com Guide

Updated February 15, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Intro:

Bedsores, otherwise known as pressure sores or pressure ulcers, are areas of skin breakdown that develop when continuous pressure decreases the blood flow to pressure dependent areas. Without adequate blood flow, the affected tissue dies and the skin breaks down. The skin on the buttocks, hips, and heels are most succeptible as these are areas of constant pressure.
People who are immobilized from paralysis or patients with decreased sensation, such as diabetics, are most at risk.

Technique:

By changing positions hourly, pressure relief is obtained. This restores adequate blood flow to the affected area and the skin is nourished again.
Position still needs to be changed hourly however since changing positions will relieve pressure from one area of the body, but places it on a different region.
For patients who are paralized, a caregiver can offer support by turning and positioning the patient with pillows.

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