- Check that you are well positioned in your chair or bed- as symmetrical posture as possible, with your back well supported
- Try and change your position as frequently as you can (or availability of your care allows it)
- Pillows or cushions at your side can help keep you upright (in bed they can stay in place better if they are positioned under the sheet and on top of the mattress)
- If you have a profiling bed, make use of the back rest and the knee bend feature to change your position, and prevent you sliding
- Worsening posture can be due to fatigue- so consider reclining in arm chair (if available), having a bed rest, or positioning your wheelchair position against a wall with a pillow behind your head and shoulders
- Be extra vigilant of your skin, and if you have assistance to with personal care, ask them to check for any red or vulnerable areas. See the question ‘My skin feels sore, or I have noticed it is red‘ for further advice
- If your skin continues to be red or an area becomes sore, contact your district nurse for further assessment to ensure the most appropriate pressure relief is in place
- For more information see Self help information Section for leaflet on posture and movement.
Lanfine Service
NHS Lothian | Our Services
