Physico-mechanical aspects of decubitus prevention

Reviewed is the theory of tissue deformation as cause of decubitus, as developed in cooperation with two Dutch Rehabilitation Institutes and two Dutch Rehabilitation Research Institutes. Also reviewed are the conditions of the prevention of decubitus concerning the support of the human body in the lying situation. The consequences of the new anti-deformation theory for the lying-support are discussed. A classification is given of the existing lying-down support systems. Examples of the three categories of existing lying-down support systems are given and discussed in general.