Summary
Pressure-relieving mattresses are designed to prevent bedsores for those in long-term care. This blog goes over the types of pressure relief mattresses available, key features to consider when making your purchase, and a list of top-rated mattresses our customers love.
Click a link to jump to a section.
- Types of Pressure Relief Mattresses
- Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Pressure Relief Mattress
- Best for Advanced Pressure Ulcer Prevention
- Most Comfortable Foam Pressure Relief Mattress
- Best Alternating Pressure Mattress for High-Risk Patients
- Best Cooling Gel-Infused Mattress for Temperature Regulation
- Best Budget-Friendly Pressure Relief Mattress
- Tips for Preventing Bedsores Beyond Mattress Selection
Introduction
Pressure relief mattresses help reduce weight on areas of the body affected by long-term bedrest. Spending long periods in bed can put a lot of pressure on one spot on your body. This constant pressure can cut off blood flow, which can harm the skin without any pressure relief, leading to bedsores1. Pressure relief mattresses can help relieve and redistribute pressure, helping prevent sores and injuries.
Who Should Use a Pressure Relief Mattress?
Anyone who spends long hours in bed due to limited mobility or post-surgical recovery can benefit from a pressure relief mattress.
Types of Pressure Relief Mattresses
1. Alternating Pressure Mattresses
Alternating pressure mattresses actively move air to redistribute pressure, periodically changing pressure distribution on different areas of the body. Air chambers inflate and deflate in multiple areas, relieving pressure and preventing the development of bedsores. Alternating pressure mattresses are great for those with limited mobility who are unable to reposition themselves.
2. Foam Pressure Relief Mattresses
Foam mattresses mold to the contours of the body for comfortable support. Foam cradles the body and reduces stress on pressure points. Foam mattresses are a great choice for those at moderate risk of pressure sores who need a little extra support.
3. Gel-Infused Pressure Relief Mattresses
Gel-infused mattresses combine the pressure-relieving power of foam with the cooling properties of gel. Gel-infused mattresses are usually designed with layers of gel that adapt to the body's movements, providing optimal pressure redistribution and cooling effects for heat-sensitive users.
4. Hybrid Pressure Relief Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses incorporate features of foam, gel, and/or alternating pressure mattresses. They are ideal for long-term care as they can adapt to those with changing mobility needs.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Pressure Relief Mattress
1. Pressure Redistribution Technology
There is a difference between pressure relief and pressure redistribution. Pressure relief cushions conform to the body to relieve pressure, while pressure redistribution shifts pressure to different areas, encouraging proper circulation2.
Always consider your mobility needs when buying a pressure relief mattress - those with higher mobility or requiring more short-term care may prefer pressure-relieving mattresses (like gel or foam). Those in long-term care and with less mobility may require pressure redistribution mattresses (alternating pressure, low air loss) for more dynamic pressure distribution.
2. Firmness and Comfort Level
Choose a mattress that is firm yet adaptable to the contours of the body. A mattress that is too firm can add more pressure to sensitive areas of the body, while a mattress that is too soft won't provide enough support.
3. Breathability and Heat Regulation
Moisture buildup can break down the skin, so it is vital to pick a mattress (or bedding) that is breathable and allows airflow. Look for mattresses that advertise themselves as "breathable", "vapor-permeable", or mattresses that contain gel.
4. Mattress Size and Compatibility
Your mattress should comfortably support your weight and anything else on the bed (bedding, pillows, etc.). Pick a mattress with a weight capacity that comfortably accommodates you for more effective support and pressure relief.
Drive Medical 14027 Med-Aire Alternating Pressure Mattress Low Air Loss System – Best for Advanced Pressure Ulcer Prevention
The Drive Medical Med-Aire (14027) mattress system utilizes alternating pressure and low air loss to minimize shear and ensure effective pressure redistribution. Individual air cells fully envelop the body and feature a pillow-like design for stabilizing the head.
Key Features
- EZ Lock/Quick Release Design Tubing
- Removable Stretch Cover Is Fluid Resistant
- Alternating 10-Minute Cycles and Static Mode Options
Specifications
- Dimensions: 80 (L) x 36 (W) x 8 (H) Inches
- Weight Capacity: 350 Pounds
Customer Review
"This type of APP really helped during a five week hospital stay. Before discharge, we located this Med-Aire AP mattress, & it works wonderfully. Positional adjustments are still required for patient health, but this DME is fundamental to the process, & beyond !!"
Drive Therapeutic 5-Zone Foam Pressure Reducing Support Mattress – Most Comfortable Foam Pressure Relief Mattress
The Drive Medical Foam Support Mattress is a cross-cut foam mattress designed with 5 therapeutic pressure zones for optimal pressure redistribution. The cut channels enhance airflow, keeping users cooler than traditional foam mattresses
Key Features
- Washable, Removable Nylon Cover Is Easy to Clean
- Cross-Cut Design Enables Air Flowthrough
- Non-Skid Bottom Secures Mattress in Place
Specifications
- Weight Capacity: 350 Pounds
Customer Review
"This mattress replaced a spring mattress and is a night and day difference: It is extremely comfortable and supports very well"
Med-Aire Plus 14029 Alternating Pressure and Low Air Loss Mattress System – Best Alternating Pressure Mattress for High-Risk Patients
The Med-Aire Plus is an advanced mattress system that provides alternating pressure and low air loss for optimal pressure redistribution. The mattress uses 20 individual air cells, a cell-on-cell design that prevents bottoming out. This system is designed for complete clinical and caregiver control with advanced control options such as lock-out, auto-firm, seat inflation, and more.
Key Features
- Diagnostic Audio and Visual Alarms for Air Pressure, System, or Power
- Removable, 4-Way Stretch Cover Is Fluid-Resistant and Low-Shear
- Digital Control Unit with 4 Cycle Times and Caregiver Controls
Specifications
- Dimensions: 36 (W) X 80 (L) X 8 (H) Inches
- Weight Capacity: 400 Pounds
Protekt 500 Gel Infused Foam Pressure Redistribution Mattress – Best Cooling Gel-Infused Mattress for Temperature Regulation
Product Reviews
The Protekt 500 is a foam mattress infused with cooling gel polymers, which channel heat away from the body and eliminate static for all-day comfort. This mattress achieves superior pressure redistribution by supporting the body more and less cradling at higher levels of compression.
Key Features
- Low-Shear Vinyl Cover Is Fluid-Resistant and Antimicrobial
- 30-Degree Slope Redistributes Pressure Away from Heel
- Cooling Gel-Infused Foam Reduces the Risk of Pressure Sores
Specifications
- Weight Capacity: 500 Pounds
Customer Review
"My Mom previously had a boxspring, and it was difficult for her to exit while at the same time, difficult to sleep in because she always had the sensation of falling. This bed solved all of those pain points, and my normally critical Mom praises it as the key to a restful night. She truly is sleeping thru the night with no incidents and waking up refreshed. For this price point, extremely happy about this purchase."
Medline Advantage Therapeutic Homecare Foam Mattress – Best Budget-Friendly Pressure Relief Mattress
The Medline Advantage Mattress is an all-foam, high-density mattress that relieves and redistributes pressure for comfort and the prevention of pressure sores. Its foam construction makes it one of the most cost-effective and lightweight pressure-relief mattresses available.
Key Features
- Two-Sided Flippable Design Can Be Rotated Head to Foot to Extend Mattress Life
- Easy-to-Clean Nylon Cover Is Anti-Shear, Anti-Friction, and Waterproof
Specifications
- Dimensions: 80 (L) x 36 (W) x 6 (D) Inches
- Weight Capacity: 300 Pounds
Customer Review
"This is a sturdy piece of furniture that serves multiple needs in our house. A good addition to our home, especially for my orthopedically challenged husband."
Tips for Preventing Bedsores Beyond Mattress Selection
Preventing bedsores goes beyond your mattress choice. 95% of all pressure sores are preventable3 - use these tips as a guide to reduce the risk of injury for your loved one.
Reposition Regularly: The most important thing you can do to prevent bedsores is to reposition your loved one regularly to relieve pressure. They should be turned at least every two hours, alternating between their left side, right side, and back4.
Supplement with Pillows: Help relieve pressure in areas with bony prominences (knees, ankles, hip bones, etc.) by supplementing with pillows or foam.
Inspect Skin Daily: Check every morning and night for early signs of developing bedsores. Look for skin color changes like redness or darkening, and signs like swelling, irritation, bruises, scrapes, or unusually warm skin. If you find any early signs of sores, relieve pressure on that area and speak with your loved one's doctor.
Keep Skin Dry and Clean: Moisture can cause friction and rubbing, irritating the skin. If your loved one tends to sweat more and/or experiences incontinence, bathe them daily. Pay extra attention to skin folds and creases where moisture can get trapped.
Maintain Proper Hydration and Nutrition: Studies have shown a connection between poor nutrition5 and the incidence of pressure sores. Try to help your loved one maintain a healthy diet with nutrient-rich foods and proper hydration (around 30 to 35 mL per kg of body weight).
Invest in Breathable Bedding: Choose soft sheets with moisture-wicking properties. Breathable, silk-like fabric bedding6 can help reduce the occurrence of pressure sores.
Where to Buy the Best Pressure Relief Mattresses
Vitality Medical has a wide range of hospital and pressure-relief mattresses available for purchase. Whether you are looking for gel, foam, or alternating pressure mattresses, we have the selection you need to help you find the right fit.
Conclusion
The right pressure relief mattress can make all the difference in preventing bedsores and pressure injuries. Choose a mattress that fits your comfort and mobility needs for the best results. Vitality Medical carries mattresses from top-rated brands like Drive Medical, Invacare, Proactive Medical, and more.
Footnotes
- 1 "SCI Model System Dissemination Committee." Causes and Risks of Pressure Sores. MSKTC.
- 2 "Fogle, L." What are Medical Devices to Prevent Pressure Injuries? Steris Healthcare.
- 3 "Awoke, N., Tekalign, T., Arba, A., & Lenjebo, T. L. (2022, March 14)." Pressure injury prevention practice and associated factors among nurses at Wolaita Sodo University Teaching and Referral Hospital, South Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study. National Library of Medicine.
- 4 "Morrow, A. (2024, November 17)." Pressure injury prevention practice and associated factors among nurses at Wolaita Sodo University Teaching and Referral Hospital, South Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study. National Library of Medicine.
- 5 "Mahmoodpoor, A., Shadvar, K., Saghaleini, S., Dehghan, K., & Ostadi, Z. (2018)." Pressure ulcer and Nutrition. Indian Journal of Critical Care Medicine, 22(4), 283–289.
- 6 "van Leen, M., Schols, J. M., & van Ratingen, W. (2022, March)." Effects of a breathable silk-like, 3-layer ventilating mattress sheet on selfrepositioning, repositioning support and pressure ulcer incidence; a pragmatic observational study Wounds International.
