Areas at high risk of developing pressure sores

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Areas where bones are close to the surface (called "bony prominences") and areas that are under the most pressure are at greatest risk for developing pressure sores.

In bed, body parts can be padded with pillows or foam to keep bony prominences (areas where bones are close to the skin surface) free of pressure. Place a pillow between the knees while sleeping on your side to prevent skin-to-skin contact and increase air circulation between your legs.

Illustrations from the Northwest Regional SCI System (2006).

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Copyright and source information

©2009 Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center (MSKTC). This publication was produced by the SCI Model Systems in collaboration with the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center (http://msktc. washington.edu) with funding from the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research in the U.S. Department of Education, grant no. H133A060070.

Our health information content is based on research evidence and/or professional consensus and has been reviewed and approved by an editorial team of experts from the SCI Model Systems.

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Skin Care & Pressure Sores