Pressure Sores Of The Back, Buttock, Hips, Extremities

Pressure Sores Treatment

Pressure sores, also known as pressure ulcers or bedsores, are common injuries that occur when prolonged pressure is applied to the skin and underlying tissues. At BH Wound Care, we offer compassionate, comprehensive wound care services for people who are unable to care for themselves or who are experiencing complications due to slow-healing or infected wounds. Our certified wound care specialists provide pressure sores treatment in Portland, OR; Los Angeles, CA; Vancouver, WA; and Nashville, TN. 

What Are Pressure Sores?

Pressure sores are also called bedsores, pressure ulcers, or decubitus ulcers. They are skin wounds that form when constant pressure or friction damages the skin. Without proper assessment and treatment, pressure sores may worsen or become chronic. Unmanaged pressure wounds can increase your risk of infection, sepsis, gangrene, amputation, and even death.

Different Types of Pressure Sores

Pressure sores can occur on any part of the body that is in consistent contact with a bed, chair, wheelchair, or other surface. The most common types of pressure sores are:

• Pressure sores of the back
• Pressure sores of the buttock
• Pressure sores of the hips
• Pressure sores of the extremities

What Causes Pressure Sores?

Understanding the common causes and symptoms of pressure sores can help you prevent them or manage them before they get worse. The most common causes of pressure sores are:

• Prolonged Pressure – Immobility or staying in the same position for extended periods, such as during bed rest or sitting in a wheelchair.
• Friction and Shear – Rubbing or sliding of the skin against bedding or support surfaces, causing damage to the skin and tissues.
• Limited Sensation – Conditions like paralysis or neuropathy can hinder the ability to perceive pressure, leading to prolonged exposure.
• Excess Moisture – Skin that is consistently moist from sweat, urine, or other bodily fluids is more susceptible to damage.

Risks or Complications of Untreated Pressure Sores

In order to promote healing and reduce your risk of complications, it’s important to design a pressure sore treatment plan. Without treatment, pressure sores can cause complications or increase your risk of:

• Cellulitis
• Skin, bone, joint, or blood infections
• Cancer
• Sepsis
• Gangrene
• Amputation
• Death

How Do You Care for Pressure Sores at Home?

Proper wound care is essential for pressure sore management and healing. If you are not able to care for yourself, consider hiring an in-home caregiver, asking a family member or friend for help, or scheduling a visit from our wound care team. If you are able to care for pressure sores at home, we recommend that you follow these tips:

• Relieve Pressure on the Wound – Frequent repositioning is vital to relieve pressure on the affected area. Use supportive surfaces like specialized cushions or mattresses to distribute pressure evenly.
• Keep the Wound Clean – Gently wash the wound with mild soap and water, and pat it dry. Avoid vigorous scrubbing to prevent further damage.
• Debride the Wound – For advanced-stage pressure sores, debridement may be necessary to remove dead tissue and promote healing.
• Regularly Change Dressings and Bandages – Use appropriate dressings and bandages to protect the wound and maintain a moist environment for healing.
• Follow a Safe Pain Management Program – If the pressure sore is painful, consult a healthcare professional for suitable pain relief options.
• Maintain Optimal Diet and Nutrition – A well-balanced diet with sufficient protein, vitamins, and minerals supports the body’s healing process.
• Manage Moisture – Keep the skin dry and free from excess moisture to prevent further skin breakdown.

Can You Prevent Pressure Sores?

If you are at risk for pressure sores, you can take some simple steps to reduce your risk of pressure sore formation. We recommend following these tips for preventing pressure sores: 

• Regularly Reposition Your Body – Change positions every few hours to reduce pressure on vulnerable areas.
• Use Supportive Devices – Utilize specialized cushions, mattresses, or padding to minimize pressure on vulnerable areas of your body, like your lower back, buttocks, elbows, hips, feet, and legs.
• Inspect Skin Daily – Check vulnerable areas for any signs of redness or skin breakdown. Early detection can prevent the development of full-blown pressure sores.
• Maintain Good Hygiene – Keep your skin clean and dry to minimize the risk of infection.
• Stay Active – If possible, try to stay mobile and reduce the amount of time you spend in bed.
• Ask for Help When Needed – If you are unable to inspect or clean your skin, reposition your body, or care for pressure sores or other wounds, it’s important to ask for help. Consult with a friend or family member, caregiver, physician, or one of our wound care specialists.

When Should You Visit a Wound Care Specialist for Pressure Sores?

You should visit a doctor or wound care specialist for pressure sores if:

• You are not able to care for the wound yourself
• Despite home care, the wound has not healed or has gotten worse
• The wound is oozing pus or a foul-smelling discharge
• You have pain, a fever, and redness or swelling at the site of the wound
• The skin around the wound is hot, inflamed, puffy, red, itching, or oozing

Our Pressure Sore Treatment Options

At BH Wound Care, we have a team of highly skilled, compassionate, and certified wound care specialists. We have the education and training needed to quickly assess and diagnose pressure wounds and create a personalized treatment program. We offer innovative wound care solutions that optimize healing and recovery to improve overall health and wellness. Our state-of-the-art technology ensures swift healing and reduces the risk of complications or infection. We will work closely with you and your care team to evaluate the extent of your wound and determine the best course of treatment. Our pressure sore treatment options include:

• Wound assessment and diagnosis
• Personalized pressure sore treatment program
• Pain management and infection control
• Wound cleaning and debridement
• Dressing application and changes
• Topical creams and antibiotics
• Pressure relief
• Dead tissue removal
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
• Diet and nutrition counseling
• Lifestyle modification
• Vacuum-assisted wound care

Schedule a Consultation for Pressure Sore Treatment

Pressure sores can be painful and challenging to manage, but with proper wound care and preventive measures, you can reduce your risk of complications or recurrence. If you notice any signs of pressure sores or have concerns about pressure sores and wound care, our experienced wound care specialists at BH Wound Care can help. Call us now or reach out to us online to schedule a consultation for pressure sore treatment in Portland, OR; Los Angeles, CA; Vancouver, WA; or Nashville, TN.