Common areas where pressure injuries develop

Common areas where pressure injuries develop

Areas where pressure injuries commonly develop.

Pressure injuries are caused by constant pressure on the skin. They often form on skin that covers bony areas. Common sites include the back of the head and ears, the shoulders, the elbows, the lower back and buttocks, the sit bones, the hips, the inner knees, and the heels.

Pressure injuries may also form in places where the skin folds over itself. And they can occur where medical equipment puts pressure on the skin. For example, they may form where oxygen tubing presses on the ears or cheeks.

Current as of: March 22, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Margaret Doucette DO - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Wound Care, Hyperbaric Medicine
Jason M. Quinn MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine