Pressure sores can develop when an area of skin breaks down because a body part, such as an elbow or buttocks, stays in one place for too long. Bony areas such as the heel are often the most at risk. Heel cushions can help to prevent the occurrence of sores by providing padding to the heel area and preventing friction.
Heel cushions can assist to prevent sores developing on an individual’s heel and can be made from various materials including:
- foam padding with velcro fastenings
- gel cushions/heel blocks
- an inflatable foot protector which supports the lower leg and foot and is designed to reduce risk to the heel
- soft latex free neoprene that can be fitted to the foot to cushion the heel.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
People are at risk of developing pressure sores if immobile or spending long periods in a chair such as when seated in a wheelchair at work.
Alternative types of heel cushions are also available from specialsed suppliers that cushion and protect tender areas of the heel whilst also helping to reduce the force felt through the heel. These are often made from silicone and can be useful for people with physical conditions such as:
- achilles tendonitis
- heel spurs
- plantar fasciitis.
The links below provide further information on pressure sore prevention and care:
References
Australia Wound Management Association 2001, Clinical Practical Guidelines for the Prediction and Prevention of Pressure Ulcers: Reducing Heel Pressure, Australian Wound Management Association Inc., Perth, viewed 6 June 2011, http://www.awma.com.au/publications/2007/cpgpppu_v_full.pdf.
Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2007, Aussie Sheep & Wool Ankle and Elbow Protectors, Independent Living Centres Australia Inc., Sydney, viewed 6 June 2011, http://www.ilcaustralia.org/home/search4.asp?State=NSW&MC=21&MinC=33&Item=905&page=6.
Seating Dynamics 2009, Heel and Elbow Pressure Care, Seating Dynamics Pty Ltd., Sydney, viewed 6 June 2011, http://www.seatingdynamics.com.au/c19/Heel_and_Elbow.aspx.