Ambulance 912HAP 9252
Back to all symptoms and conditions
General health information

Pressure sore

A pressure sore develops when skin and underlying tissue are exposed to pressure or shearing forces for too long, often over a bony area or beneath a device. Early discolouration that does not fade may indicate deeper damage. Relieving pressure immediately, checking daily and professional wound assessment help prevent worsening; do not massage the area.

In this article
Choose which sections to read

  • A pressure sore, or pressure injury, is damage caused by sustained pressure, often with shearing, over a bony area or beneath a medical device.
  • Early damage may appear as discolouration that does not pale when pressed, or as warmth, hardness, sponginess, swelling or pain.
  • Relieve pressure immediately. Do not keep sitting or lying on the area while waiting to see whether it goes away by itself.
  • Daily skin checks, an appropriate support surface, individual movement plans and good hydration and nutritional support help prevent pressure sores.
  • Do not massage a suspicious area or cut away or remove black tissue yourself.
  • Depth and category may be underestimated from the outside; have a trained professional assess the area.

Your response

Two anonymous questions

Did you find what you were looking for?

Do you now have a clearer idea of your next step?

Share article

Email

Do you need a healthcare provider after reading?

Search by type of care, organisation, name or district.

Further reading

Browse A–Z
G
GlaucomaGlaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve. The most common form develops slowly and causes no symptoms for a long time; lost areas of vision do not return. Early detection and treatment can often slow further damage. Sudden severe eye pain with a red eye, blurred vision, coloured rings around lights, headache or nausea may be acute angle-closure glaucoma and needs immediate specialist eye assessment.
H
Hidradenitis suppurativaHidradenitis suppurativa is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that causes painful lumps, abscesses and sometimes tunnels beneath the skin, often in the armpits, groin, buttocks or under the breasts. It is not caused by poor hygiene and is not contagious. Early recognition, good wound care and suitable treatment can help limit pain, scarring and flare-ups.
B
Bruised nailA nail may turn blue, dark red or black when blood is trapped beneath it after a blow, pressure or tight shoes. A small bruise usually grows out with the nail, but severe pain, major damage or discolouration without injury needs assessment.