Pressure ulcers are a significant problem in the UK, particularly for bedridden patients or those with limited mobility. They occur in up to 23% of patients in acute care facilities and up to 33% of patients in long-term care facilities. At Anatomical Concepts, we are particularly interested in heel pressure ulcers, accounting for approximately 25% of all ulcers.

To prevent these ulcers, we should know the risk factors which are partly "mechanical" and partly "medical". We discuss the major ones and notice how these factors can overlap. We finish by looking at how the PRAFO range of orthoses can help

A heel ulcer, also known as a pressure ulcer or, in the past, as a pressure sore, is a wound that develops from prolonged pressure on the skin and underlying tissue. It is most common in the elderly who may be immobile and nutritionally challenged - and those with medical conditions such as diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, or spinal cord injury. Heel ulcers occur when pressure is applied to the heel for extended periods, cutting off blood flow to the localised tissue and causing skin and subcutaneous tissue damage.
Heel ulcers are not a new problem. They represent a massive cost to the NHS and of course an emotional and physical burden on those who experience them. In this article we describe the characteristics of heel ulcers and the role of the PRAFO range in their prevention or treatment.

The STOP Pressure Week (13-17 Nov) initiative aims to combat pressure ulcers by emphasising the significance of 'Every Contact Counts'. In this article, we aim to raise awareness and take proactive measures to safeguard individuals at risk, with a specific focus on preventing heel pressure ulcers. Additionally, we will delve into the discussion of the PRAFO range of devices, which play a pivotal role in both prevention and treatment.

Discover how to prevent pressure sores on heels in this insightful blog post. Learn about the risk factors, influencing factors and effective prevention tips. Explore the range of heel protectors that offer more than just protection, supporting safe mobilisation and aiding the patient's recovery journey. Available in various sizes and liner interfaces.

Pressure ulcers, sometimes known as pressure sores, or bedsores, can be a serious health concern for those who are bedridden, have limited mobility or have additional medical risk factors such as diabetic foot disease.

Even though we know what causes pressure ulcers, and recognise that prevention is best, they still cost the NHS £3.8 million per day to treat.

Heel protectors are an important tool in preventing and treating these pressure sores, but, with so many options available, it can be difficult to know which ones are best for your needs. This guide will help you choose the best heel protectors. It's probably not as straightforward as you might have thought.

As you might expect, we will describe why the PRAFO range of ankle-foot orthoses ranks as the market leader for this type of product because of how they manage the broadest aspects of risk.

When it comes to treating (or ideally) protecting against heel pressure ulcers, choosing the right product is essential. Every day, thousands of patients around the world are put at risk when using inadequate wound care products that fail to prevent and reduce their chances of developing skin breakdown due to prolonged tissue compression.

This is why investing in a well-researched heel protector that offers consistent protection is critical for orthotists, physiotherapists, doctors and patients alike. The PRAFO ankle foot orthosis range of heel protectors stands out as the top option on the market thanks to their impressive and often unique design features – this blog post will explore how they work and how these designs can support clinicians in preventing further tissue damage and keeping patients ambulant.