Types of Pressure Relief Mattresses 🛌🏻
Guide to Choosing the Best Among the Different Types of Pressure Relief Mattresses
You may be surprised by the wide range of types of pressure relief mattresses available and the variety of users who may require this orthopaedic solution to improve their wellbeing.
Pressure relief mattresses are commonly used during prolonged hospital stays, especially for people who are unable to reposition themselves independently in bed, as well as in care homes and private homes to ensure more appropriate rest.
Supporting the wellbeing of people with reduced mobility, whether temporary or permanent, requires making informed decisions about the materials they interact with daily—one of the most important being the mattress.
Even when individuals only spend sleeping hours in bed but have limited movement in their arms and legs, or when they are unable to change position easily due to other conditions, it is essential to consider an appropriate type of pressure relief mattress to prevent injuries.
What Are Pressure Sores and Why Is Prevention Important?
Pressure sores, also known as pressure ulcers, are injuries that develop in the skin and soft tissues when they are subjected to prolonged pressure against a surface, causing reduced blood flow to the affected area.
Immobility, moisture, and lack of adequate nutrition can weaken and damage skin cells, leading to injuries identified by redness, swelling, changes in skin colour, and the appearance of blisters or open ulcers.
Treating these injuries early—and above all, preventing them—is essential to avoid serious and painful complications. This makes it crucial to choose among the different types of pressure relief mattresses according to each individual situation.
Alongside orthopaedic devices, it is also important to ensure proper hydration, a balanced diet, and to keep vulnerable areas dry and free from excess moisture.
Which Is the Best Pressure Relief Mattress?
As with most orthopaedic aids, choosing this type of mattress requires considering both maximum comfort for the user and practicality for carers.
Selecting the ideal model among the various types of pressure relief mattresses depends on multiple factors related to the user’s condition. Contrary to common belief, it is always possible to find the right balance between functionality, quality, and price among orthopaedic options.
- Memory foam pressure relief mattress: made from foam that adapts to the shape of the body, providing personalised support depending on material density. It always returns to its original shape once weight is removed, making it an ideal option for users who require frequent but gentle repositioning.
- Polyurethane pressure relief mattress: offers firmer support than memory foam and helps reduce pressure thanks to its ergonomic, versatile, and durable properties. This porous plastic material is formed by interconnected air cells that allow airflow, helping to relieve pressure-related injuries.
- Air pressure relief mattress: an excellent option for profiling beds, available in static air and dynamic air versions. Dynamic air models require a compressor to alternate air flow in cycles and regulate pressure, making them a highly effective solution for both preventing and treating skin injuries.
- Hybrid pressure relief mattresses: combine different materials to offer greater flexibility, durability, and comfort, both for the user and for installation on different bed types.
In addition to the different types of pressure relief mattresses, carers should also consider other pressure-relief orthopaedic aids, such as absorbent sheets, protective mitts, elbow protectors, heel protectors, bootees, and cushions.
Choosing the most suitable materials to prevent and treat pressure ulcers effectively is the definitive way to ensure the wellbeing of those who need it most.
Each of the different types of pressure relief mattresses provides comfort and support tailored to the user’s specific condition at any given time.
We offer personalised guidance from professionals to advise on each of the types of pressure relief mattresses available on the market and help identify the best option for each user’s specific needs.