Pressure sore prevention for the wheelchair-bound spinal injury patient

Abstract

The concept of a wheelchair cushion fitting clinic for the prevention of pressure sores is reviewed in the light of recent estimates of the cost of pressure sores in the U.K. A method for measuring the pressure beneath the ischial tuberosities is discussed and techniques for measuring a patient’s habitual exercise frequency and reared posture are desrcribed. Result from the records of 600 spinal injury patients attending Rancho Lor Amigos Hospital are reported and used to demonstrate the importance of low pressure beneath the ischial tubesotitier as an indicator of wheelchair cushion suitability. © 1980 International Medical Society of Paraplegia.