Published 27 April 2026 · Last updated 25 August 2026
What Are Pressure Sores?
Pressure sores (also called pressure ulcers or bedsores) develop when sustained pressure cuts off blood supply to the skin, causing tissue damage. They typically occur over bony areas like the sacrum (base of the spine), heels, hips, and elbows. People most at risk are those who sit or lie in one position for extended periods, including wheelchair users, people confined to bed, and those with limited ability to reposition themselves. Pressure sores range from mild redness (Grade 1) to deep wounds exposing muscle or bone (Grade 4), and severe cases can be life-threatening.
Pressure Relief Cushions
Foam cushions: Made from high-density or memory foam that moulds to the body, distributing weight more evenly than a standard cushion. Entry-level options cost £20-50 and are suitable for low-risk users who spend moderate time seated.
Gel cushions: Contain a gel layer that distributes pressure and reduces heat build-up. They are heavier but very effective for medium-risk users. Gel/foam combination cushions offer a good balance. Prices from £30-100.
Air cushions: Contain interconnected air cells that shift pressure continuously. The Roho range is the gold standard for wheelchair users at high risk. They require occasional inflation adjustment but provide excellent pressure distribution. Prices from £80-400.
Alternating pressure cushions: Powered cushions that automatically inflate and deflate different cells in a cycle, actively changing the pressure points. Used for very high-risk individuals who cannot reposition themselves. From £150-500+.
Pressure Relief Mattresses
Static pressure-redistributing mattresses: High-specification foam or visco-elastic (memory foam) mattresses that conform to the body shape and spread weight across a larger surface area. Suitable for low-to-medium risk. Replacements for standard mattresses cost £100-400.
Alternating pressure mattresses: Electric pump systems that inflate and deflate rows of air cells in an alternating pattern, continuously shifting pressure points. Overlay versions sit on top of your existing mattress (£100-300). Full replacement mattresses cost £200-1,000+ and are used in hospitals and care homes for medium-to-high risk patients.
Hybrid mattresses: Combine foam with air cells. They tend to be quieter than pure air mattresses and more comfortable for sleeping.
Getting Pressure Relief Equipment on the NHS
District nurses and tissue viability nurses assess pressure sore risk using tools like the Waterlow or Braden scales. Based on the risk level, they can provide appropriate cushions and mattresses through NHS community equipment services at no cost. If you or a family member has limited mobility and sits or lies for long periods, ask your GP or district nurse for a pressure risk assessment.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know which pressure cushion or mattress I need?
By risk, not by price. Pressure care is graded, from foam for low risk, through alternating air for higher risk, to specialist surfaces for someone with existing damage. Getting this right needs an assessment, because buying below the level of risk wastes money and buying above it can be uncomfortable.
What is the difference between static foam and alternating air?
Static foam spreads the load and relies on the person shifting their own weight. Alternating air inflates and deflates cells in a cycle so the pressure point keeps moving, which is what somebody who cannot reposition themselves needs. Air systems need mains power and a pump that makes noise.
How often does someone need repositioning?
There is no single interval that suits everybody, which is why the schedule should come from an assessment rather than a rule of thumb. The equipment reduces risk, it does not remove the need to move, and any redness that does not fade when pressed needs looking at the same day.
Can I get pressure relief equipment on the NHS?
Often yes. Pressure relieving equipment is routinely supplied through district nursing and community equipment services after an assessment, and it is worth asking before buying, because the assessment also tells you what grade you actually need.
Do these work on a normal bed?
An overlay sits on top of an existing mattress and is the usual home solution. A replacement mattress goes on the bed frame instead. Overlays raise the bed height, which affects getting in and out and can make bed rails less effective, so check both before ordering.
What is the first sign of pressure damage?
A patch of skin that stays red after the pressure is taken off, or that does not blanch when you press it. On darker skin, look for a change in colour, warmth, firmness or a boggy feel rather than redness. Any of these should be reported the same day rather than watched.
Sources & Useful Resources
Published 27 April 2026 · Last updated 25 August 2026