Bedsores, also called pressure ulcers or pressure injuries, are a serious concern for people who spend extended time in bed or a chair. They’re painful and can worsen quickly. Air mattresses may be a useful tool to help prevent (and to some extent treat) bedsores. Here’s what you need to know:
How Bedsores Form
- Prolonged pressure on the skin, especially over bony areas like the hips, heels, and tailbone, cuts off blood supply.
- Without blood flow, skin tissue can die, creating painful sores.
- People who have limited mobility or sensation are most at risk.
How Air Mattresses Help
- Redistribute Pressure: Air mattresses have a series of air-filled cells that inflate and deflate in cycles. This shifting movement changes the pressure points on the body, preventing continuous stress on the same areas.
- Promote Air Circulation The changing air pressure can improve airflow around the skin, which helps keep it dry and less likely to break down.
- Not a Cure-All: Air mattresses are a tool, but they don’t replace the need for regular repositioning (every 1-2 hours) and good skin care.
Types of Air Mattresses
- Basic: Simple air-filled mattress replacement. Provides some pressure relief.
- Alternating Pressure: The most common type for bedsore prevention. The air cells inflate and deflate in a pattern for better pressure distribution.
- Low Air Loss: More advanced systems for serious bedsores or high-risk patients. Designed to manage moisture and further reduce pressure.
Should You Use an Air Mattress?
Talk to a doctor or wound care specialist if you or a loved one are at risk for bedsores. An air mattress might be recommended in addition to other essential care strategies.
