How can limited mobility affect tissue integrity?

Limited mobility significantly impacts tissue integrity primarily through increased pressure on specific areas of the body. When an individual has restricted movement, certain areas—often over bony prominences—experience prolonged pressure. This continuous pressure can impede blood flow to the tissues in those areas, leading to ischemia. If not alleviated, this situation can result in localized tissue damage, ultimately forming pressure ulcers.

Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores or decubitus ulcers, develop as a direct consequence of the skin and underlying tissues being under constant pressure without sufficient relief. The risk is particularly heightened for individuals who are confined to a bed or wheelchair for extended periods due to limited mobility. Consequently, understanding the relationship between limited mobility and tissue integrity is crucial for implementing effective preventative measures, such as regular repositioning and appropriate cushioning to redistribute pressure.