ABSTRACT
Because the body weight is transmitted through the bony prominences such as the scapula, sacrum, greater trochanters, ischial tuberosities, and heels, it can cause significant concentrations of pressure at the skin’s surface and in the underlying soft tissue. The pressure peaks and pressure gradients surrounding these peaks can put the soft tissue at risk of breakdown. Wheelchair users, especially those who have only limited ability to reposition them and/or have a loss of sensation in the areas where weight is being supported, are at high risk for developing pressure ulcers. However, high pressure alone usually is not a sufficient condition for the development of a pressure ulcer. Research has clearly demonstrated that the damaging effects of pressure are related to both its magnitude and duration. Simply stated, tissues can withstand higher loads for shorter periods of time.
