Bedsores and Memory Foam
Bedsores, also called decubitus ulcers, have been a well-recognized
problem since the birth of medicine. They are widespread, affecting
an estimated 9% of all patients in American hospitals. The risks posed
by bedsores are well-known in the medical community, and most medical
facilities have policies to help prevent and deal with bedsores when
they develop. Most at risk are patients who are receiving in-home care,
as those without medical training may lack the expertise or resources
to adequately address this very serious issue.
Causes
Bedsores develop as a result of constant pressure on certain parts of
the body, most commonly the bony protuberances such as elbows and heels.
On traditional mattresses, these points come to bear inordinate amounts
of body weight, because most beds lack the pressure distribution properties
of memory foam or other more advanced materials.
Bedsores begin when external pressure denies blood flow and oxygen to
tiny blood vessels near the surface of the skin. This causes the death
of the first skin layers, usually manifesting itself as a red rash that
looks much like a sunburn. Bedsores in this stage are fairly mild and
can be successfully treated by simply encouraging air and blood flow.
If not managed properly, however, bedsores can eventually spread deeper
under the skin, in some cases causing decay of muscle tissue and bone.
Bedsores can be very difficult to treat, and severe cases may require
amputation or even result in death.
