Caring for Your Pressure Points: A Guide for Wheelchair Users
Spending long hours in a wheelchair doesn’t have to mean constant discomfort or worrying about pressure sores. With the right daily habits and awareness, you can protect your skin, improve circulation, and stay comfortable throughout the day. Here’s how you can look after your pressure points and keep your body healthy
What Are Pressure Points and Why They Matter
Pressure points are areas of the body—like the buttocks, tailbone, hips, heels, and shoulder blades—that bear weight when you sit for long periods. For wheelchair users, these spots can become vulnerable because constant pressure reduces blood flow. Over time, this can lead to pressure injuries (pressure sores or ulcers) if not managed carefully.
1. Choose the Right Cushion
Your wheelchair cushion is your first line of defense. The right one distributes your weight evenly and reduces pressure on sensitive areas.
Types of cushions to consider:
Foam cushions: Lightweight and affordable but may lose shape over time.
Gel cushions: Help maintain even pressure and feel cooler.
Air cushions (like ROHO): Offer excellent pressure relief and can be adjusted for firmness.
💡 Tip: Have Your Occupational Therapist or seating specialist assess your posture and recommend the best cushion for your body shape and lifestyle. Replace cushions as soon as they show signs of wear.
2. Shift Your Weight Regularly
Even with the best cushion, weight shifting is essential. Every 15–30 minutes, shift your position for at least 30 seconds to let blood flow back into compressed areas.
Ways to relieve pressure:
Side leans: Lean to one side and hold for a few seconds, then switch.
Forward leans: If safe, lean forward until your weight lifts off your sit bones.
Tilt or recline: If you use a power chair with tilt or recline features, use them frequently.
💡 Tip: Set reminders on your phone or watch to make these small movements a consistent part of your routine.
3. Keep Your Skin Healthy
Healthy skin is resilient skin. Make a habit of checking your skin daily—especially on your buttocks, hips, thighs, and heels—for redness, blisters, or dry patches.
Skin care tips:
Wash gently with mild soap and warm (not hot) water.
Pat—don’t rub—your skin dry.
Apply a light, fragrance-free moisturizer to prevent dryness.
Watch for early signs of irritation or color changes that don’t fade after a few minutes.
👩⚕️Tip: If you notice anything unusual, don’t wait—tell your healthcare provider or a wound care nurse right away.
4. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
What you eat and drink affects your skin health more than you might think.
Protein helps repair tissue.
Vitamin C and zinc support wound healing.
Water keeps your skin supple and helps with circulation.
� Tip:A balanced diet and good hydration can make a big difference in preventing pressure injuries.
5. Maintain Good Posture and Positioning
Poor posture increases pressure on certain points and can cause pain or skin breakdown.
Adjust your wheelchair to ensure your hips, knees, and ankles are at right angles.
Make sure your pelvis is level and your back is supported.
⚕️Tip:Ask for a seating assessment if you notice frequent discomfort, sliding forward, or leaning to one side.
6. Get Regular Professional Check-Ups
Even with the best care routine, regular check-ins with your occupational therapist, physiotherapist, or wound care nurse are important. They can spot small issues before they become bigger problems and ensure your equipment continues to meet your needs.
Final Thoughts
Pressure care is really about prevention. By making small adjustments every day—checking your skin, shifting weight, and maintaining your equipment—you can stay comfortable, independent, and confident. Your wheelchair is your freedom; taking care of your body helps you make the most of it.
👩⚕️ Tip:Remember: If you ever experience persistent redness, pain, or skin breakdown, seek medical advice immediately. Early intervention makes all the difference.
