We recognize the crucial significance of offloading and redistributing pressure when it comes to treating wounds, specifically pressure ulcers and diabetic foot ulcers. Our skilled team of wound care experts provides tailored offloading methods and devices, aiming to relieve pressure on sensitive areas, facilitate the healing process, and reduce the likelihood of wound recurrence.
Offloading and pressure redistribution are methods used to prevent and manage pressure ulcers. Offloading involves relieving pressure on vulnerable areas by repositioning or using specialized equipment. Pressure redistribution distributes weight evenly across a larger surface area to reduce the risk of pressure ulcers. Both techniques aim to minimize excessive pressure and promote healing.
Offloading: Offloading involves removing or reducing pressure from a specific area of the body. This can be achieved through various methods:
Positioning
Proper positioning of the patient is essential to distribute pressure evenly across the body and relieve pressure on vulnerable areas. For example, individuals who are bedridden may need to be repositioned regularly, typically every two hours, to prevent prolonged pressure on a particular spot.
Cushions and Supports
Specialized cushions, pads, or mattresses can be used to redistribute pressure away from high-risk areas. These products are designed to provide support and cushioning to reduce pressure on bony prominences. For instance, gel or foam cushions can help distribute weight evenly and decrease pressure on areas like the heels, sacrum, and buttocks.
Mobility Aids
Wheelchairs, walking aids, and other mobility devices should be properly fitted and adjusted to minimize pressure on vulnerable areas. Regular shifts in position, weight shifting exercises, or using weight-bearing surfaces can help alleviate pressure.
In addition to offloading, pressure redistribution techniques focus on spreading the load over a larger surface area, thereby reducing pressure on specific points. Some common methods include:
Alternating Pressure
This technique involves using specialized support surfaces that alternate the pressure applied to different areas of the body. These surfaces inflate and deflate different air cells or compartments at regular intervals, redistributing pressure and promoting blood circulation.
Lateral Rotation
Lateral rotation beds or mattresses gently turn the patient from side to side, periodically changing the contact points between the body and the support surface. This helps relieve pressure on specific areas and enhances circulation.
Air-fluidized Therapy
This method uses a bed filled with tiny beads or particles that mimic the properties of fluid. When air is forced through the beads, it creates a fluid-like environment, which significantly reduces pressure and shear forces on the body.
Pressure-relieving Overlays and Mattresses
These are specialized surfaces made of foam, gel, or air-filled chambers that conform to the body’s shape. They distribute pressure more evenly across the surface, reducing the risk of localized pressure injuries.
Personalized Evaluation
Our wound care experts conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your wound, medical history, mobility, and lifestyle factors in order to customize a suitable offloading strategy and select appropriate devices that meet your specific requirements.
Tailored Offloading Strategy
Taking into account the assessment results, we develop a personalized offloading plan that incorporates various techniques and devices. This plan considers factors such as the location and severity of the wound, your weight-bearing capacity, and any underlying conditions. Our aim is to optimize offloading while ensuring your comfort and mobility.
Offloading Techniques
We utilize a range of offloading techniques, including: Pressure Redistribution, Total Contact Casting & Non-Weight Bearing.
Customized Offloading Devices
We prescribe and provide offloading devices tailored to your individual needs, which may include: Custom Orthotic Shoes or Inserts, Heel Offloading Boots & Pressure-Relieving Mattresses or Pads.
TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARDS HEALING
Our wound care specialists possess extensive knowledge and experience in employing offloading techniques and selecting appropriate devices. We actively stay informed about the latest advancements in offloading technologies and evidence-based practices, enabling us to deliver the most effective care to our patients.
Recognizing that each patient has unique requirements, we adopt a personalized approach to offloading and pressure redistribution. Our dedicated team takes into account your specific circumstances, preferences, and lifestyle to tailor the treatment accordingly.
Our commitment extends beyond immediate wound healing. We are dedicated to preventing the recurrence of wounds and promoting long-term wellness. To achieve this, we address the underlying causes and risk factors associated with pressure ulcers and diabetic foot ulcers, ensuring sustained results for our patients.
