Pressure Ulcers are common for individuals who suffer from paralysis. Studies show that 39% of people rehospitalized in the first year after their SCI are admitted for pressure ulcers. This is very important because nobody wants to be in the hospital.

Reasons why SCI individuals are more susceptible to Pressure ulcers

1. Paralysis and sensory impairment (if you are unable to feel things normally, you won’t know if something is irritating your skin).

2. Changes in collagen metabolism (the way your skin and connective tissues are able to build new tissue and heal) caused by SCI. Wound healing may take five times longer below the level of SCI due to these changes.

3. Muscle atrophy (shrinking) can leave the bony prominences on your backside (or other areas) less padded, so that there is less protection over these areas.

4. Altered circulation can reduce the blood supply to tissues, which not only increases your risk for skin problems, but slows the healing process if you do develop a pressure sore.

Ways to Heal a Pressure Ulcer

1. Reducing Pressure

2. Cleaning and Dressing Wounds

3. Removing Damaged Tissue

4. Surgery