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Causes of Pressure ulcers

Pressure ulcers tend to develop on areas of the body that have little body fat to cover them.  This includes the hips, heels, shoulder blades and the small of the back.  They occur when a person is immobile for a long period of time, for example, when a person has been ill in bed or in hospital. Sitting in a chair or wheelchair  for long periods of time, without pressure being relieved can also cause pressure ulcer development.

Pressure ulcers occur when pressure is applied to the same area of the body for an extended length of time.  This prevents blood travelling to the area and restricts the flow of oxygen, causing body tissue to die.