Skin Health

 

Statistics tell us that 85% of people with a spinal cord injury (SCI) will develop a pressure sore during their lifetime. Pressure sores can also be referred to as pressure ulcers, decubitus ulcers, bed sores, and skin breakdown. A pressure sore is a lesion, wound or injury, usually caused by unrelieved pressure that results in damage of underlying tissue. Prolonged pressure prevents blood and oxygen from getting to the tissues. Pressure sores are diagnosed in stages from mild to severe. 

 

• Aging 

• Smoking

• Level and completeness of injury

• Other health issues and secondary complications of SCI 

• Low activity level

• Ability to cope with stress 

• Inadequate and/or worn out equipment

• Change in routine i.e. a new job, a new sport

• Seasonal changes, sun exposure, water sports

• Longer sitting times, exposure to heat and moisture, heating pads, heated car seats

 

 

 

   

Individuals with SCI are at a higher risk for pressure sores due to the loss of movement, muscle mass, sensation, poor circulation and inadequate perspiration. 

 

• Check your skin regularly even if you do not have a sore. Learn to self-check using mirrors or digital cameras. Attendants/ caregivers can also check for you.

• Avoid wearing tight fitting clothing & shoes e.g. wear your shoes one size larger 

• Prepare and cook meals safely e.g. use a lap tray to carry hot items

• Keep skin clean and dry and avoid skin trauma e.g. long exposure to sunlight, tight shoes

• Practice and perform proper transfers

• Maintain your equipment in good working condition

• Change your position/ reduce pressure often e.g. sitting, lying down, leaning 

• Use appropriate therapeutic support surfaces to reduce pressure, e.g. ROHO cushion, specialized mattress 

• Move as often as you can in your chair to redistribute the pressure of your weight on sitting surfaces. Use a tilt chair if you one. 

• Eat a well balanced diet and monitor/ maintain a healthy body weight

• Even if you do not have a pressure sore, practicing self-check will help you get into the habit and will allow you to see early warning signs 

• Vacation tips

o Pressure relieve/ shift your weight during long travel time i.e. flights

o Wear clothing that suits climate and avoid wearing wet clothing

o Use plenty of sunscreen where strong sunlight

o Maintain skin routine

 

 

• Remove the cause and stay off the affected area i.e. rest in bed off the affected area

• Call your doctor or health care professional. A referral is usually required to a specialty clinic.

• Do not rub or massage the affected area

• Eat well and keep your body well hydrated