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Challenge Magazine Fall 2007  |
| Features: Keep Your Skin Healthy During the Cold Weather Season |
| By: Kathy Mohar, CTRS Winter is on the way and with it comes the cold wind and layers of clothing that we need to protect ourselves from the outdoor elements. However, when we put on the longjohns, turtlenecks, fleece, and coats we are increasing the chances of causing skin problems in places where circulation is poor. Individuals with disabilities are at risk for skin wounds because of their loss of sensation and mobility caused by paralysis. People with spina bifida and spinal cord injuries don’t have the ability to feel pain or pressure in their lower extremities, so visually checking the skin is important. Pressure sores usually occur on a bony joint such as an ankle, hip or pelvis. Skin can break down when boots or shoes are too tight, when clothing is bunched up, or when sweating occurs. The wound is often caused because the external pressure of the clothing or boot exceeds the capillary pressure in that extremity. The blood flow slows, or sometimes stops, which causes the tissue damage. With open sores on skin and tissue, bacteria may enter and complicate the healing of the wound. Remember that a skin sore on the surface that is the size of a dime is really much larger in the layers of fat and muscle underneath. Sores have a cone shape and are narrower at the surface and wider underneath. Don’t under-estimate the damage being done by something that looks like no big deal. The key to skin care is prevention. Prevent the sores from starting and you won’t have to worry about the significant damage they can cause. A good habit to get into is inspecting high-risk areas of your body with a long-handled mirror, or with the help of a caregiver. You are looking for any areas of skin that are red, warm to the touch, and/or appear swollen. If a sore is found, you must pay close attention to it and assist in the healing by relieving the pressure to the affected area. Prop up your leg with pillows, do frequent push-ups on the armrests of your wheelchair to relieve the pressure, and keep the area dry. There are many products on the market from air-filled mattresses to foam and gel-filled cushions for wheelchair seating. Talk with your doctor about what tools would be right for you when considering the health of your skin. Keep in mind that winter weather can increase your chances of having friction or pressure on areas of your body. Do your self-inspections on a regular basis and hopefully the winter will see you in good health. |
| Snow Skiing Resources |
No matter the level of disability, there is equipment that enables you to access the slopes. Below are some Web sites of adaptive ski equipment manufacturers. www.aluflexski.com |
| Challenge • Fall 07 • Page 12 - 13 |
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