Common Areas Where Pressure Sores Develop

Picture of the common areas where pressure sores develop

Pressure sores are usually caused by unrelieved pressure on the skin. They often develop on skin that covers bony areas. Places on the body that are at risk for developing pressure sores include the back of the head and ears, shoulder, elbow, the lower back and buttocks, hip, and heel. The greater trochanter (say "troh-KAN-ter"), which is the side of the upper thigh, and the inner knees are also at risk.

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerE. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerMargaret Doucette, DO - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Wound Care, Hyperbaric Medicine
Last RevisedFebruary 15, 2011
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: February 15, 2011
Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Margaret Doucette, DO - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Wound Care, Hyperbaric Medicine

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