A pressure injury (bed sore) is caused by constant pressure. This often occurs when a person lies in bed or sits in a wheelchair for a long time. Pressure injuries usually form over bony areas such as the hips, lower back, elbows, and heels. To prevent pressure injuries, you need to change positions often.
Severe pressure injuries are hard to treat and slow to heal. If they don't heal, they can lead to skin, blood, or bone infections.
Current as of:
November 21, 2017
Author:
Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Margaret M. Doucette, DO - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Wound Care, Hyperbaric Medicine