The Pressure Injury Playbook: Tips Every Wheelchair User Should Know

Protect your skin, stay comfy, and roll with confidence.

Whether you’re in your wheelchair for a few hours a day or most of the time, one thing’s for sure — your comfort (and your skin!) matters. One of the biggest risks for long-term wheelchair users is pressure injuries — also known as pressure sores, pressure ulcers, or bedsores.

The good news? They’re almost entirely preventable.

This guide covers everything you need to know — from cushions and posture to nutrition, tech, and daily habits — to protect your skin and keep rolling, pain-free.

What Are Pressure Injuries (and Why Should You Care)?

Pressure injuries happen when constant pressure on the skin and underlying tissue cuts off blood supply. That can lead to skin breakdown, pain, and — if left unchecked — serious infection. These injuries often appear over bony areas like:

• Tailbone (sacrum/coccyx)
• Hips
• Heels
• Sit bones (ischial tuberosities)

People who sit for long periods, especially without shifting position or using pressure-relieving gear, are most at risk.

According to this fact sheet from MSKTC, once a pressure sore starts, it can take weeks or even months to heal — and in severe cases, it can lead to hospitalisation.

Early Warning Signs to Watch For

Catching a pressure injury early is key. Keep an eye out for:

• Red, purple, or dark patches of skin that don’t fade
• Hard or swollen spots
• Areas that feel warmer or cooler than surrounding skin
• Tenderness or tingling in one area

Daily skin checks — especially around bony points — can save you a world of discomfort later.

7 Must-Do Habits to Prevent Pressure Injuries

Pressure injuries might be sneaky, but they’re no match for a solid routine. These simple daily habits can help you stay comfortable, keep your skin healthy, and stay one step ahead of any trouble.

1. Invest in Pressure-Relieving Cushions (Seriously)

A high-quality wheelchair cushion isn’t a luxury — it’s essential pressure care. It spreads your weight more evenly, reducing the load on hotspots like your tailbone and hips.

Types of cushions include:

• Gel cushions: Great for comfort and cooling
• Air-filled cushions: Adjust to your movement and reduce pressure buildup
• Memory foam cushions: Contour to your body and distribute pressure
• Hybrid cushions: Combine air, gel, or foam for the best of all worlds

Looking for one that fits your setup? Check out our curated pressure care cushion range — built for real comfort and real results.

2. Nail Your Seating and Posture

Poor posture = more pressure on fewer areas = higher risk of injury. A poorly fitted wheelchair can also cause shearing — when the skin is stretched or twisted due to sliding forward.

How to fix it:

• Your hips should be positioned all the way back in the seat
• Knees and thighs level with the ground (no “tipping forward”)
• Footplates properly adjusted to support your legs
• Use lateral supports, lumbar rolls, or seat inserts if needed
• Get a professional seating assessment at least annually

According to this systematic review from the Journal of Tissue Viability, pressure relief through seating is most effective when paired with posture correction.

3. Shift Your Weight Regularly (Or Get Help Doing It)

Even with the best cushion, staying in one position too long isn’t good. Ideally, you should shift weight every 15 to 30 minutes — even slightly — to relieve pressure points.

Repositioning options:

• Side leans (lean left or right for 1–2 minutes)
• Forward leans (lean forward to relieve tailbone pressure)
• Power tilt or recline functions (built into some chairs)
• Caregiver-assisted tilting if movement is limited

Don’t have the mobility to shift on your own? Tilt-in-space or power recline chairs can be game-changers.

4. Prioritise Skin Care and Daily Checks

Healthy skin is your best defence. Keep it clean, dry, moisturised, and monitored. Pay attention to any areas that feel sore, look discoloured, or don’t bounce back after pressure is relieved.

Daily skin care checklist:

• Use mild, pH-balanced soap and moisturisers
• Dry thoroughly (especially in skin folds)
• Check for redness, bruising, or swelling
• Use a mirror or ask for help with hard-to-see spots

If something looks off, don't wait — early treatment = faster healing. You can also check out this blog for a guide on preventing dry skin in the elderly.

5. Eat Well, Stay Hydrated

Good nutrition = good skin. Dehydration and poor diet can weaken your skin barrier and slow healing.

Top nutrients for skin integrity:

• Protein (for tissue repair)
• Vitamin C (supports collagen)
• Zinc (essential for wound healing)
• Water (hydration = skin elasticity)

If you're unsure about what you need, a dietitian or GP can help personalise a plan.

6. Explore Tech That Has Your Back (Literally)

New tech is making pressure care smarter and easier. Some mobility devices now include:

• Smart cushions that monitor pressure and send alerts
• Wheelchairs with automatic pressure shift systems
• Posture-sensing sensors that give feedback on movement

This kind of tech is especially useful if you have limited mobility or sensation. Curious? We’ll happily chat you through your options.

7. Book a Seating or Occupational Therapy Assessment

Your needs might change over time — so your setup should evolve too. A professional seating assessment helps identify risk factors, optimise posture, and make sure you’re using the best cushion, backrest, and chair for your body.

Need help finding an OT near you? Give us a ring — we can connect you.

Your Skin Is Worth the Effort

Pressure injuries can knock your confidence and independence — but with the right approach, they’re totally preventable.

Here's the wrap-up:

• Use a cushion made for pressure relief
• Sit with purpose and support
• Shift your weight often
• Check your skin daily
• Eat well, stay hydrated
• Get support when you need it

At Mobility Hub, we’ve got a whole range of pressure care solutions — from smart cushions to support gear — and we’re always happy to help you choose what’s right for you.

Ready to upgrade your setup? Explore our pressure care gear or get in touch — we’re here to help, no pressure (pun intended).