How Pressure Care Products Help Prevent Bed Sores
If you’ve ever sat or laid in one spot for too long and felt that uncomfortable “numb bum” feeling. Imagine that, but all day, every day. That’s where pressure injuries (aka bed sores) can sneak in, especially for people who spend a lot of time in bed or seated due to age, illness, or mobility issues.
The thing is, these sores can turn painful and lead to bigger health problems if left unchecked. But don’t stress. There’s good news.
With the right pressure care products, you can take real steps to prevent bed sores and keep skin safe, comfy, and supported. We’re talking cushions, mattresses, sheepskin boots, even special pillows—all designed to take the pressure off (literally).
What Are Pressure Injuries (Bed Sores)?
Pressure injuries sound clinical, but the reality is much more relatable—especially if you or someone you care for spends a lot of time sitting or lying down. These skin issues can start out small but quickly become painful, stubborn, and hard to ignore.
Luckily, they’re largely preventable. And the first step is understanding what they are, why they happen, and how to spot them early.
What actually causes a pressure injury?
When someone stays in the same position for too long—whether it's in bed, in a chair, or on the couch—certain parts of the body can start to feel the strain. That constant pressure reduces blood flow to the skin and deeper tissues, and without enough circulation, the area can break down.
It’s usually the bony bits that cop it first: tailbone, hips, heels, elbows, and even the back of the head. And it doesn’t take a lot of time—pressure injuries can form faster than you might think if someone isn’t being regularly repositioned or supported properly.
Who’s most at risk?
Anyone who can’t easily shift their weight or move around is more likely to develop pressure injuries. That includes older adults, people with disabilities, or anyone recovering from surgery or illness.
The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care points out that pressure injuries can happen at home just as easily as in a hospital or aged care setting.
And it’s not always about lying still. Even small movements—like sliding down in a recliner or shifting awkwardly in a wheelchair—can cause friction or "shear" forces that lead to skin damage. Things like crumpled bedsheets, seams in clothing, or a poorly positioned cushion can quietly cause more harm than you’d expect.
What does a pressure injury look like?
Early signs are often easy to miss, especially if you’re not sure what to look for. It could be:
- A red or dark patch of skin that doesn’t go away
- Swelling or soreness in one spot
- A patch that feels warmer or cooler than the skin around it
- Or skin that just looks or feels… different
As the Mayo Clinic explains, pressure injuries range from mild irritation to deep wound and the sooner you catch them, the better.
If left unchecked, what starts as a red spot can turn into an open sore that’s painful and slow to heal. That’s why daily skin checks are a simple but powerful habit.
Why prevention matters
Let’s be honest. Treating pressure injuries is no fun. They’re painful, frustrating, and in some cases, can lead to serious infections. That’s why prevention is the name of the game.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, regular movement, supportive surfaces, and clean, dry skin are key to keeping pressure injuries at bay. And the National Center for Biotechnology Information adds that avoiding friction and shear is just as important as managing pressure itself.
This is where good pressure care products come in. They help cushion the load, reduce skin stress, and make it easier to stay safe and comfortable throughout the day.
What Are the Stages of Pressure Injuries?
Not all pressure injuries are the same and knowing the different types can help you spot the signs early and choose the right care approach. Some pressure injuries may look like a harmless red mark, while others can go deep beneath the skin and take much longer to heal.
Here’s a simple breakdown of how pressure injuries are commonly classified.
Stage 1: Early warning signs
This is where it usually starts. The skin hasn’t broken yet, but it may look red, purple, or darker than usual and it won’t go back to normal even after pressure is removed. The area might feel warm, swollen, or a bit firmer or softer than the surrounding skin.
Think of it as your body’s way of saying: “Hey, something’s not right here.”
As explained on MyHealth Alberta, this stage is the most treatable if caught early—just relieving the pressure and using protective support can often reverse the damage before it worsens.
Stage 2: Surface damage
At this stage, the skin starts to break. You might see a blister, shallow open sore, or a pink, painful wound. It can look like a scrape or sunburn, and may ooze fluid. This is a sign that both the skin and the first layer of tissue underneath have been affected.
According to Ausmed, cleaning the area gently and keeping pressure off the wound is essential to avoid infection and promote healing.
Stage 3: Deeper tissue involvement
Now we’re getting into more serious territory. The wound goes beyond the top layers of skin and affects the fat and soft tissue beneath. It might look like a deep crater, with or without signs of infection.
At this stage, extra care is needed and pressure relief products become critical to support recovery and avoid further damage. If you're seeing signs like this, it’s time to speak with a healthcare professional.
Stage 4: Severe breakdown
Stage 4 pressure injuries are the most severe. The wound may be deep enough to expose muscle, tendon, or even bone. There’s usually significant tissue loss, and the risk of infection is high.
Treatment at this level often requires professional wound care and a dedicated plan to reduce pressure, manage hygiene, and support the person’s overall health. If you suspect a pressure injury has reached this point, don’t wait—seek medical advice immediately.
Other types to know about
Not every pressure injury fits neatly into one of the four stages. Some may be labelled as:
- Unstageable – when the wound is covered by dead tissue, and it’s hard to tell how deep it goes
- Deep Tissue Pressure Injury (DTPI) – when the skin looks intact but there’s serious damage underneath, often showing as a deep purple or maroon area
Both are serious and need close monitoring and care. Again, prevention is far easier than treatment—and the right mix of products and support can make a huge difference in day-to-day comfort and safety.
How Pressure Relief Products Help
Pressure care products aren’t just about comfort—they’re about keeping skin safe, improving quality of life, and helping people stay independent for longer. Here are the key ways these products protect against bed sores, plus some of our go-to recommendations for getting started.
1. They take the pressure off (literally)
When someone’s sitting or lying down for hours at a time, certain parts of the body take more of the load—like the tailbone, heels, or hips. Pressure relief products work by spreading weight more evenly, so no single area cops all the stress.
Helpful products:
Triple-Layer Pressure Care Mattress
- Why you’ll love it: This hospital-grade mattress uses three supportive layers to redistribute pressure while you sleep. The waterproof, breathable cover makes it perfect for everyday care at home.
- Best for: People at medium risk of pressure injuries, or anyone who spends extended time in bed.
- Why you’ll love it: Lightweight, portable, and easy to use on any chair, this cushion helps reduce tailbone and lower back pressure throughout the day.
- Best for: Wheelchair users, aged care clients, or anyone sitting for long periods.
As the Cleveland Clinic explains, using pressure-relieving surfaces early can significantly reduce your risk of developing a pressure injury.
2. They help prevent rubbing and skin breakdown
It’s not just about weight—skin also gets damaged from tiny movements, like sliding down in bed or dragging heels across a mattress. These friction and shear forces are major contributors to pressure injuries, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information.
Helpful products:
Wild Goose Sheepskin Heel Protectors
- Why you’ll love it: Ultra-soft and breathable, these natural sheepskin protectors cradle the heels and reduce rubbing from sheets or mattresses.
- Best for: People with fragile or thinning skin, or those recovering from surgery.
Wild Goose Sheepskin Footrest Overlay
- Why you’ll love it: Adds a soft, pressure-reducing layer to wheelchair footplates or recliner footrests. Machine washable and naturally moisture-wicking.
- Best for: Wheelchair users or anyone using a recliner or raised footrest for long stretches.
Wild Goose Sheepskin Open-Toe Medical Boots
- Why you’ll love it: These breathable boots provide full-foot protection without overheating. The open-toe design allows for skin checks and airflow.
- Best for: People at risk of heel or ankle pressure injuries, or anyone who prefers soft support over hard footwear.
3. They support healthy posture and alignment
Poor posture can put extra strain on your neck, shoulders, or hips—especially if you're lying or sitting for most of the day. Proper positioning helps take the edge off and promotes better circulation.
Try this:
Aspire ComfiMotion Breeze Pillow
- Why you’ll love it: This contoured pillow provides gentle but stable neck and shoulder support. It’s cool, breathable, and helps prevent awkward sleep positions that lead to stiffness.
- Best for: Side sleepers, aged care clients, or anyone who needs better upper-body alignment in bed.
As the Mayo Clinic notes, positioning plays a key role in both preventing and managing pressure injuries—especially overnight.
4. They make everyday care easier
Many carers tell us the same thing: pressure care products don’t just protect skin—they give people peace of mind. Using the right gear can reduce the need for constant repositioning, ease carer strain, and improve the overall care experience.
Try combining a cushion for day use, a mattress for overnight support, and sheepskin accessories for added protection. Used together, they create a more complete approach to skin safety—without overcomplicating daily routines.
As the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care points out, pressure injuries are common—but with the right tools, they’re also preventable.
Small Changes, Big Comfort
Pressure injuries might seem like something that only happens in hospitals—but the truth is, they can affect anyone with limited mobility, even at home. The good news? With the right mix of support, movement, and pressure care products, they’re largely preventable.
Whether you’re caring for a loved one or managing your own recovery, having the right tools can make daily life safer, more comfortable, and a little less stressful. From cushions and sheepskin protectors to full-body mattresses, each product plays a role in keeping skin healthy and helping you stay one step ahead of discomfort.
And if you’re not sure where to start, we’re here to help.
Visit Our Epping Showroom
Want to see and feel the difference for yourself? Come visit our friendly team at the Platinum Health Epping showroom. You can try out pressure care cushions, explore mattress options, and get tailored advice that suits your needs.
Unit 2/51 Trafalgar Road, Epping VIC
Open weekdays, 9am–5pm
Whether you’re after practical guidance or just want to ask a few questions—we’re here to support you, no pressure.
Health Disclaimer
This blog is intended to provide general guidance and education around pressure injury prevention and the role of pressure care products in everyday care. All medical-related content and product recommendations in this blog are based on information sourced from publicly available, reputable healthcare organisations and published academic literature.
However, this content is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor, healthcare provider, or wound care specialist before trying any of the products mentioned—especially if you or the person you're caring for has an existing health condition.
Platinum Health Supply is not liable for any injury, loss, or adverse outcome resulting from the use or misuse of information provided in this blog. When in doubt, seek professional medical guidance tailored to your personal situation.
