Alternating Pressure Pads

These devices are used to prevent or treat decubitus ulcers (often called bed sores or pressure sores).

They work because they help to eliminate the cause of pressure sores. This is accomplished by moving the point of support (which is the same as the point of pressure) from one area of the patients body to another – and back again – thus the term "alternating."

The APP consists of a small air pump and an air mattress that is about three inches thick with at least two different air chambers. Only one chamber at a time is filled with air and thus you get the alternating action.

For information about pressure sores and how to prevent them follow this link to the Mayo Clinic Web site: WWW.MAYOCLINIC.COM/HEALTH/BEDSORES/DS00570.

And for additional information follow this link: WWW.FAMILYDOCTOR.ORG/039.XML.