The Facts About Pressure Sores: Causes, Risks, and Management
Pressure sores can develop quickly but are preventable with proper care—understanding their causes, risks, and management is essential for reducing complications.
What Are Pressure Sores?
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Pressure sores occur when prolonged pressure on the skin restricts blood flow, leading to tissue damage. If left untreated, these sores can progress from mild redness to deep wounds that expose muscle and bone.
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Prolonged Immobility: Staying in one position for too long without shifting weight.
Friction & Shear: Rubbing or sliding movements that weaken the skin.
Moisture Exposure: Excessive moisture from sweat, incontinence, or wound drainage softens and weakens the skin.
Poor Nutrition & Hydration: Inadequate nutrients slow healing and increase skin breakdown.
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Stage 1: Skin remains intact but appears red or discolored.
Stage 2: Open wound or blister with damage to the top layer of skin.
Stage 3: Deeper wound exposing fat tissue, often appearing crater-like.
Stage 4: Severe tissue loss exposing muscle, tendons, or bone.
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Early Warning Signs:
Redness or dark patches that do not fade when pressure is removed.
Skin that feels unusually warm or cool to the touch.
Advanced Symptoms:
Open wounds, blisters, or exposed tissue.
Signs of infection, including swelling, pus, or a foul odor.
Pressure Sores By The Numbers
The Hard Facts:
2.5
Million
cases of pressure sores occur annually in the U.S.
2.8x
mortality rate for patients with pressure sores.
Higher
17
U.S. lawsuits filed annually for pressure sore malpractice.
Thousand
$26
spent annually on treating pressure sores in healthcare.
Billion
60%
pressure sore patients face a higher death risk within a year.
of elderly
Who is Susceptible to Pressure Sores?
Individuals with Limited Mobility:
Those who cannot change position frequently, stay in bed for prolonged periods of time, use wheelchairs, or have paralysis.
People with Neurological Conditions
Stroke survivors, spinal cord injury patients, or those with conditions that limit sensation.
Those with Poor Circulation
People with diabetes, vascular disease, or other conditions affecting blood flow.
Elderly Patients
As people age, skin becomes more fragile and loses muscle, causing less natural cushioning over bony areas.
Malnourished or Dehydrated Patients
Diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, and heart disease can impair blood flow, slowing wound healing and increasing the risk of pressure sores.
Prevent, Manage, and Seek Help for Pressure Sores
Early intervention can prevent serious complications. Whether you’re looking for prevention tips, treatment guidance, or professional support, we have resources to help.