Why is the heel particularly vulnerable to pressure ulcers?
1Professor in Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Israel.
British Journal of Nursing (Mark Allen Publishing)
|November 10, 2017
Summary
Heel pressure ulcers result from tissue deformation. Low-friction garments help prevent these injuries by reducing damaging shear forces on susceptible heel tissues.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Biomedical Engineering
- Tissue Mechanics
Background:
- Heel pressure ulcers are a significant clinical concern, particularly in at-risk patient populations.
- Sustained tissue deformation in the posterior heel leads to cell damage and loss of homeostasis.
- Frictional and shear forces exacerbate tissue damage, affecting both skin and deeper structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explain the biomechanical factors contributing to heel pressure ulcer vulnerability.
- To review emerging technologies, specifically low-friction garments, for heel protection.
- To highlight the importance of timely prevention strategies for at-risk individuals.
Main Methods:
- Biomechanical analysis of soft tissue deformation under pressure.
- Review of scientific literature on pressure ulcer prevention technologies.
- Examination of anatomical and physiological risk factors for heel ulcers.
Main Results:
- Sustained deformations cause progressive cell and tissue damage by compromising cellular integrity.
- Lack of relief from tissue distortion accelerates damage, especially in motionless patients.
- Low-friction garments show promise in absorbing frictional forces, protecting heel tissues.
Conclusions:
- Understanding heel biomechanics is crucial for preventing pressure ulcers.
- Low-friction garments offer a promising adjunctive strategy for heel ulcer prevention.
- Timely and comprehensive prevention strategies are essential for all at-risk patients.
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