How to Prevent Pressure Sores in a Wheelchair – Essential Tips

Learn how to prevent pressure sores in a wheelchair with expert tips on seating, skin care, and movement. Stay comfortable and protect your health.

Let’s be real—sitting in a wheelchair for long hours can be tough on your body. One of the biggest concerns? Pressure sores. These painful skin wounds pop up when you stay in the same position too long, cutting off circulation. And trust me, they’re not something you want to deal with.

The good news? You can prevent them! With the right seating, regular movement, and some simple skincare habits, you can keep your skin healthy and comfortable. Let’s dive into some practical, easy-to-follow tips to help you avoid pressure sores while using a wheelchair.

What Are Pressure Sores (And Why Should You Care)?

Pressure sores, also called bedsores, happen when there’s too much pressure on one part of your skin for too long. They usually show up on bony areas like your tailbone, hips, heels, and back.

What Causes Pressure Sores?

Sitting in the same position for hours (we’ve all been there!)
Poor circulation due to limited movement
Friction from sliding in your wheelchair
Moisture from sweat or incontinence
Not getting enough nutrients or water

Early Signs to Watch For

Red, swollen, or discoloured skin
Sore or tender spots
Skin that feels warm or unusually firm
Blisters or open wounds (in more serious cases)

Catching these signs early is key! The sooner you act, the easier it is to prevent sores from getting worse.

How to Prevent Pressure Sores in a Wheelchair

1. Get Yourself a Comfortable Wheelchair Cushion

Think of your wheelchair cushion like a mattress—you need one that supports you properly. The right cushion helps spread out your weight, so no single area takes too much pressure.

Types of Wheelchair Cushions:

Foam Cushions – Cheap and lightweight but may flatten over time.
Gel Cushions – Good for pressure relief and keeping cool.
Air Cushions – Customisable firmness, great for pressure relief.
Honeycomb Cushions – Lightweight and breathable for extra comfort.

Pro Tip: A memory foam or gel cushion is a great investment for extra comfort and support!

2. Change Positions Regularly

Sitting in the same spot for hours? Not ideal. Here’s what you can do:

Shift your weight every 15-30 minutes.
Reposition yourself at least every 2 hours.
Use a tilt-in-space wheelchair if moving on your own is tricky.
Sit up straight! Good posture helps distribute pressure evenly.

Need a hand? Ask a caregiver or family member to help reposition you if needed.

3. Take Care of Your Skin

Healthy skin = fewer pressure sores. Here’s how to keep your skin in top shape:

Check your skin daily for redness or irritation.
Keep skin dry with moisture-wicking clothing and seat covers.
Use barrier creams to protect against friction.
Skip harsh soaps – gentle cleansers are your best bet.

Fun fact: Staying hydrated keeps your skin stronger, so drink plenty of water!

4. Wear the Right Clothes

Your outfit choices can make a difference. Pick soft, breathable fabrics like cotton and avoid anything that could cause irritation.

Steer clear of:

Tight clothing that digs into your skin
Rough seams or buttons pressing against pressure points
Wrinkled clothes that bunch up under you

5. Get Moving (Even in a Wheelchair!)

Even small movements help with circulation and reduce pressure on your skin. Try these simple exercises:

Seated push-ups – Lift yourself slightly off your seat for a few seconds.
Leg lifts – Strengthen muscles and improve blood flow.
Shoulder rolls and arm stretches – Loosen up and reduce stiffness.

Bonus Tip: If moving on your own is tricky, a physiotherapist can suggest assisted exercises.

6. Eat Well for Healthy Skin

Your diet plays a big role in keeping your skin strong and preventing pressure sores. Load up on:

Protein – Found in lean meats, eggs, and beans.
Vitamin C – Helps skin repair (think oranges, bell peppers, and broccoli).
Zinc – Supports wound healing (nuts, seeds, whole grains).
Omega-3s – Reduces inflammation (salmon, flaxseeds, walnuts).

One more thing: Don’t forget to drink water! Dehydrated skin is more likely to break down.

7. Use Pressure-Relieving Gear

A few extra tools can help take the pressure off:

Pressure-relieving mattresses – Perfect for overnight comfort.
Sheepskin seat covers – Reduce friction and improve airflow.
Heel protectors – Keep your heels safe from constant pressure.
Gel or air cushions – Extra support for long sitting periods.

8. Get Expert Advice If You Need It

If you spot persistent redness or a sore that won’t go away, don’t wait—see a healthcare professional. They can help with:

Custom seating solutions
Special pressure-relief products
Wound care treatments

Early action = faster healing!

Final Thoughts

Nobody wants to deal with pressure sores, but with the right habits, you can keep your skin in great shape. By choosing the right cushion, moving often, eating well, and caring for your skin, you’ll dramatically lower your risk.

Have you found a great trick for preventing pressure sores? Share it in the comments!

For more tips on wheelchair comfort and mobility, check out our other guides.

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse