In this article, we discuss how Levabo cushions relieve heel pressure in bed, whether at home, in hospitals or for people in care homes.

Pressure ulcers, or pressure sores, are a big concern in hospitals and care homes. This is especially true for patients who are immobile or vulnerable. 

The heel is very likely to get ulcers. This is because it has little soft tissue padding and often touches bed surfaces.

Heel pressure relief cushions provide a focused solution. They take pressure off the heel, spread out the weight, and protect the skin from injury.

Why Are Heels at Risk of Pressure Ulcers in Bed?

The heel has very little fat or muscle to cushion it. So, when a person lies in bed, the heel often supports the full weight of the lower leg. This can quickly lead to pressure-induced tissue damage. 

Friction from sheets and reduced circulation, particularly in patients with diabetes or vascular disease, further increases the risk.

According to the NICE Pressure Ulcer Prevention Guideline CG179, heel protection should be prioritised for at-risk individuals.

What Are Levabo Heel Up Cushions?

Heel Up cushions are devices that lift the heel off the bed. This helps to move pressure to the calf instead. Made from light, inflatable material, they support the leg in a neutral position. This helps reduce pressure, shear, and friction on the heel.

The design ensures that neither the Achilles tendon nor the malleoli are compressed, offering full offloading for maximum protection.

The Importance of Heel Offloading

Offloading the heel is a widely recognised strategy for pressure ulcer prevention. The EPUAP/NPIAP/PPPIA international guidelines recommend full heel offloading for at-risk individuals.

Even high-spec mattresses cannot always prevent heel ulcers due to the small contact area. Heel cushions act as a proactive measure, keeping pressure away from the heel entirely.

What the Evidence Says

Clinical studies support the use of heel offloading cushions. A 2011 randomised study found that patients using heel elevation devices had fewer heel ulcers. This was compared to those who received standard care.

The Cochrane Review on pressure-relieving devices also supports their use as part of a wider prevention strategy.

Benefits in Hospital Settings

In hospitals, patients often cannot move after surgery or during critical care. Heel Up cushions give constant protection, even when moving them is hard. They reduce staff workload, improve patient comfort, and help prevent hospital-acquired pressure ulcers.

NICE recommends using offloading devices during surgery and when patients are at high risk of developing ulcers.

Benefits in Care Homes

In care homes, Heel Up cushions help prevent heel damage in elderly or bedbound residents. They remain in place better than standard pillows and are often more comfortable. 

Their regular use is seen as good by CQC inspectors. It helps homes meet the NICE Quality Standard QS89 for preventing and managing pressure ulcers.

Conclusion

Heel Up pressure relief cushions are an easy and proven way to stop heel pressure ulcers in patients at risk. They align with NICE and international guidelines, reduce staff workload, and promote patient safety. 

In hospitals and care homes, adding heel offloading to regular care helps prevent pressure sores effectively.

View and buy online - Pressure Relief Cushions For Heels  |  Pressure Relief Cushions  

This article was witten by industry and product expert: Marc Cameron, utilising research and peer review. Algeos supply Levabo Cushions in the UK in partnership with Levabo.