Many of our clients are bed-bound - some have paralysis, are paraplegic, quadriplegic and some are in a coma. Our body's biggest organ is the skin. Bed sores can become fatal if not properly cared for. This can cause anxiety for the patient and the family caregiver who is simply trying to keep their loved one healthy.

So what can you do? Well, there is a secret weapon called the lateral rotation mattress.

Lateral rotation mattresses, also known as turning mattresses, are specifically designed to help prevent and treat pressure sores, also known as bedsores. They achieve this by automatically rotating patients side-to-side at regular intervals, typically 30 or 45 degrees. This movement helps to redistribute pressure points on the body, which can significantly reduce the risk of skin breakdown.

One thing I like about these mattresses is not just what it does for the patient - but also the family caregiver. I have personally seen first-hand parents. spouses and children who are family caregivers get up around the clock to turn their loved ones so they don't have a fluid build-up or skin breakdown.

Here are some of the key benefits of using a lateral rotation mattress:

• Prevents and treats pressure sores:Pressure sores are a serious medical complication that can occur when blood flow is restricted to an area of skin for too long. They are most common in people who are immobile or have limited mobility, such as those who are bedridden or in a wheelchair. Lateral rotation mattresses can help to prevent pressure sores by regularly redistributing pressure points on the body.
• Improves circulation:The side-to-side movement of a lateral rotation mattress can help to improve circulation throughout the body. This is especially important for people with conditions that affect circulation, such as diabetes or heart disease.
• Reduces pain:Pressure sores can be very painful. By preventing pressure sores, lateral rotation mattresses can help to reduce pain and discomfort.
• Promotes better sleep:The regular movement of a lateral rotation mattress can help some people sleep better. This is because the movement can help prevent them from lying in one position for too long, which can lead to stiffness and discomfort.
• Improves respiratory function:For people with respiratory problems, such as pneumonia, the side-to-side movement of a lateral rotation mattress can help to improve lung function by mobilizing fluid in the lungs.

It is important to note that lateral rotation mattresses are not suitable for everyone. They are typically only recommended for people who are at high risk of developing pressure sores, such as those who are bedridden or have limited mobility. If you are considering using a lateral rotation mattress, it is important to talk to your doctor first.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about lateral rotation mattresses:

• They can be expensive.
• They can be noisy.
• They may not be comfortable for everyone.

Here is an example of a well known Rotation System

Overall, lateral rotation mattresses can be a valuable tool for preventing and treating pressure sores in people who are at high risk. However, it is important to talk to your doctor to see if a lateral rotation mattress is right for you.