Pressure sores are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue that are primarily caused by prolonged pressure. They can happen to anyone, but usually affect those who are confined to bed or who sit in a wheelchair for long periods.

These sores most commonly occur on bony parts of the body such as the heels, elbows, hips, and base of the spine. They often develop gradually but can sometimes form in a few hours.

After a motorbike accident left both his legs paralysed, Ian (not his real name) has had to worry about pressure sores. If he develops one, it could result in weeks of pressure relief, resulting in long periods spent in bed. Times like this are not good for his mental health, as he enjoys going out and interacting with others.

Sadly, he once developed them on both legs where his buttocks meet his thighs. It was so uncomfortable that his doctor had to administer pain relief.

To help him heal, Ian was admitted to the rehabilitation unit of a hospital and placed in a special bed with an air-filled mattress that would put minimal pressure on the wounds. He underwent a procedure to remove dead tissue to allow healing to take place.

Back home, he wasn’t allowed to have showers as the shower-chair seat was too hard. He had to adapt and have bed baths provided by his caregiver.

Ian had to be strict with the amount of time he spent in his wheelchair or in bed. He could only be in any given position for a short period, to prevent applying excess pressure on his wounds as well as other vulnerable areas such as his tailbone area, buttocks, elbows and heel.

To compound matters, he had another accident in 2018 that resulted in a broken tibia and fibula as well as a spinal fracture. Had he been able-bodied, the doctor could have operated and reset the affected bones with screws. But, in his case, Ian needed to have his leg in a cast from his toes to the top of his thigh

He was at risk of further pressure sores and, after a week, indeed developed one in his heel. He had to go to the hospital regularly to have the cast reapplied and check how the wound was healing.

So, what has Ian learnt over the years and put in place to prevent pressure sores from developing? He has:

• changed his wheelchair for one that inflicts less pressure on his skin.
• obtained a foam boot that goes on his right foot to protect his heel;
• frequent checks done on vulnerable areas such as his heels, elbows, back, spine and bottom, as well as regular applications of moisturising cream to protect these regions;
• regular pressure-relief sessions, and contact with his doctor or caregiver at the first signs of a problem such as redness.

Ian believes everyone knows their own bodies and should not be afraid to ask questions or raise concerns with their doctor or caregivers. It is better to do so than to end up in pain for weeks recovering from pressure sores.

TELEME Healing Life Stories is a collection of inspirational stories of how ordinary people triumph over their health conditions and recover to lead a healthier life. Email [email protected] to share your story.

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