If you or a loved one spends extended time in bed due to mobility issues, choosing the right mattress is crucial. The wrong surface can lead to discomfort, poor sleep, or even pressure sores—also known as bedsores.
Whether you're looking to prevent skin breakdown or manage an existing condition, this guide will help you choose a pressure relief mattress that matches your needs.
Why Pressure Relief Matters
When a person lies in one position too long, pressure builds on certain areas of the body—usually the back, hips, tailbone, heels, and shoulders. Without proper support and circulation, this can cause:
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Skin irritation
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Pain or discomfort
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Pressure ulcers (sores)
The right mattress helps by relieving pressure, controlling heat and moisture, and distributing weight evenly.
1. Start With the Patient’s Current Condition
Ask yourself a few key questions:
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Does the person already have pressure sores or skin at risk?
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Are they able to shift positions on their own?
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What are their medical conditions (e.g., stroke, paralysis, ALS, etc.)?
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Do they experience excessive sweating or skin moisture?
These answers will guide you toward the best type of pressure-relief mattress.
2. Consider Weight and Height
Mattresses perform differently based on body size.
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For lighter individuals, softer support surfaces may be sufficient.
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For heavier individuals, look for mattresses with high weight capacities and firm support layers that won’t compress too much.
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Always ensure the mattress matches the bed width and length (standard, bariatric, or extra-long sizes).
3. Match the Mattress to the Level of Care Needed
Here are the most common types of pressure-relief mattresses:
Foam Mattresses
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Ideal for low to moderate risk users
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Contours to the body and helps distribute weight evenly
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Available in layered and contoured styles for added support
Alternating Pressure Mattresses
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Best for high-risk or immobile users
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Uses a pump to shift air between chambers, relieving pressure points
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Often includes features like low air loss (for moisture control)
Low Air Loss Mattresses
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Excellent for moisture control and skin protection
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Allows air to circulate under the user, keeping the skin dry and cool
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Helps manage heat and sweat buildup
Combination Mattresses (Alternating + Low Air Loss)
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Designed for serious conditions like stage 3-4 pressure sores
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Offers both pressure redistribution and skin cooling
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Often used in hospital or long-term care settings
| Mattress Type | Best For | Key Benefits | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foam Mattress | Users with some mobility | Contours to body, improves comfort, low maintenance | Low to Moderate Risk |
| Alternating Pressure | Users who are mostly immobile | Air cells inflate/deflate to reduce pressure points | Moderate to High Risk |
| Low Air Loss Mattress | Users with moisture or heat concerns | Promotes airflow, helps manage skin temperature and moisture | Moderate to High Risk |
| Alternating + Low Air Loss | Users with existing pressure sores or paralysis | Combines pressure relief with moisture control | High to Very High Risk |
| Bariatric Mattress | Users over 350 lbs | Higher weight capacity, firm support, wider sizing options | Any Risk Level |
4. Other Features to Consider
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Side bolsters for added safety and fall prevention
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Adjustable firmness settings for changing needs
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Easy-to-clean materials for hygiene and maintenance
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Battery backup in case of power loss (for air mattresses)
Still Unsure? Let Us Help.
Finding the right mattress can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Call us at 888-413-8994, and our product experts will guide you based on your specific needs, medical situation, and budget.
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