If you have been involved in an accident that has resulted in spinal cord damage, paralysis, quadriplegia, tetraplegia or paraplegia, then we can help you obtain the compensation that you deserve. Our attorneys are specialist personal injury lawyers with many years experience in handling the most complex of cases. They will give you accurate and thorough advice on how to maximize your payout. Don’t wait until it is too late to make a claim. Contact us today for obligation-free legal advice.
The physical effects of a spinal chord injury can include paralysis, loss of feeling, loss of movement. One may not be able to feel the sensation of touching the skin, tell the difference between temperature changes such as cold and hot, altered bladder and or bowel function, altered sexual function. Fertility in males may also be adversely affected. Depending on the level of the spinal cord injury, blood pressure, circulation and breathing may also be affected. One of the most common problems is the development of pressure sores.
Skin Pressure Sores
One of the most common complications of spinal chord injuries is the development of skin pressure sores. Sitting or lying down in the one position for a prolonged period of time (as is the case with those suffering from paralysis) can result in pressure being exerted on the skin at certain points especially where the skin is close to the bone. This pressure can cause a reduction in the circulation of blood in those areas. If those areas of the skin do not receive enough blood and oxygen, the cells in the skin can start to die. This is how skin pressure sores develop. Signs to watch out for include redness, swelling, irritation, blisters and pain.
Relieving the pressure by changing position regularly can help free up the blood circulation, ensuring that the skin receives adequate blood supply, oxygen and nutrients so that it stays healthy.
Skin care and pressure sores when lying in bed
When lying down, pressure can be exerted on the skin, at different points, depending on the position you are lying in. If you are lying on your back, common pressure points include the heels, tailbone, elbows, shoulder blades and the back of the head. If lying on your side, then the following are pressure points to watch for: ears and shoulder, hip bones, knees, ankles.
Spending too much time in the one position can result in the development of red marks on the skin and/or pressure sores on the skin. The ability to tolerate such pressure varies from individual to individual, however it can be affected by how bony you are, and how easily you can move around. Regular turning in bed and altering of positions is important to minimize the chance of pressure sores developing and maintaining healthy skin.
Weight loss and muscle loss
If over time you lose weight or the muscles in your legs have wasted, then it is even more important that you pay attention to the condition and care of your skin. Muscle and fat act like “padding”, protecting you from protruding bones. Losing weight can result in the pelvic muscles becoming more prominent. The result is that you may need to increase the frequency of turning in your bed, so as to minimize the development of sores.
It may also be useful to purchase a specially designed mattress for pressure-relieving. Some people also find it helpful to lie on soft sheepskin overlays. Also, improving your diet and nutritional intake can help improve your skin’s health generally and its ability to heal.
Skin tolerance can be adversely affected by illnesses such as chest infection, urinary infection, colds and flu. Again you will need to decrease the time between turning positions in your bed, and you will need to regularly check your skin for signs of red marks and sores.
Skin pressure sores when sitting
Sitting for long periods of time may cause lead to pressure sores. When we sit we are putting pressure on our sitting bones (ischial tuberosities) and also our tailbone. If you sit in a wheelchair it may be a good idea to use a cushion. This is because cushions spread the pressure across a greater surface area over the buttocks and the thighs. It is important to discuss with your healthcare provider any pain or discomfort you may be feeling when sitting down. They can advise you of techniques to relieve pressure when sitting down, including how to adjust your wheelchair, sit using correct posture, how to relieve pressure by leaning and moving around in your chair, how to transfer in and out of your chair or wheelchair. Simple techniques include lifting yourself up from the wheelchair and down again (if you can use your arms). You can also shift your weight from side to side, to relieve the pressure from each buttock.
Minimizing the risk of developing skin sores
- Check your skin twice a day for any redness and swelling.
- Make note of the location of any marks and how long they take to fade.
- Relieve any pressure by changing positions and posture as often as possible.
- Use pressure relieving cushions and special mattresses.
- Padded seats can be used on shower commodes.
- Padded toilet seats and bath boards are also recommended.
- Make sure any splints are not causing unnecessary rubbing on the skin.
- Avoid wearing clothing that is too tight or made of material that is rough against your skin.
- If sitting for prolonged periods you should wear comfortable shoes.
Are you suffering from the effects of a spinal injury? Need legal advice? Complete the contact form now for free legal advice from a spinal chord injury attorney.
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