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Non-Medical in Home Treatment Of Bed Sores

Author: Shadi Norbakhsh, Nurse – Rose Hill Care at Home

Bed sores, also called pressure sores, happen when a person stays in the same
position for too long. Bedsores, or pressure ulcers, frequently affect patients with limited mobility, particularlythe elderly confined to bed. They develop when sustained pressure obstructs blood flow
to the skin, causing the tissue to break down. This damage can affect both superficial
and deeper layers of skin. Individuals who are bedridden, rely on a wheelchair, or have
difficulty repositioning themselves independently are at the highest risk.
Non-drug treatments offer effective support for both preventing and healing bed sores.
While prevention was covered in the previous article, “What are bed sores and how to
prevent,” this article focuses on simple, non-medical healing methods suitable for minor
(Stage I and II) bed sores that can be done at home. The most critical elements for
managing and healing bed sores are lifestyle and care-based measures, which are often
more important than relying solely on topical applications.
However,It is vital to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and
treatment, especially if a minor sore worsens or if the case is more severe (Stage III and
IV). Natural treatments should be viewed as supportive measures for the healing
process of minor bed sores (stage l and ll).

Bed sores, also called pressure sores, happen when a person stays in the same position for too long. This pressure cuts off blood flow to the skin, and the skin starts to break down, leading to damage to both superficial and deeper tissues. People who stay in bed a lot, use a wheelchair, or have trouble moving on their own are most at risk. The good news is that many simple steps can help prevent bed sores. These methods are simple and can be done at home, but it is still important to talk to a healthcare professional about the patients.The most critical steps for managing and preventing bed sores are lifestyle and care-based, not just drugs.
  1. Change Positions Often
    The most important step is reducing pressure on the skin to improve blood circulation.
    ● If in bed → change position every 2 hours
    ● If in a wheelchair → shift weight every 15–30 minutes
    Even small movements help improve blood flow and protect the skin.
  2. Relieve Pressure by Using Support Surfaces
    The primary cause of bed sores is prolonged pressure. As said in the article “What are
    bed sores and how to prevent ”, using pressure-relieving materials prevent bed sores .
    These do not cure bed sores, but they keep the sore from getting worse.
  3. Maintain Proper Hygiene and Keep the Skin Clean and Dry
    Cleaning the wound daily with sterile saline water and/or povidone-iodine solution (only
    under physician order) helps prevent the worsening of bedsores. Keeping the area
    clean and dry helps prevent infection. Moisture makes skin weaker and easier to break.
    ● Gently wash the area with mild soap and warm water
    ● Pat dry—don’t rub
    ● Change wet clothes or bedding right away
    ● Clean, dry skin heals faster and avoids infection.
  4. Ensure Proper Nutrition, Eat Healthy Food and Drink Enough
    Water
    ● Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to keep the skin hydrated and healthy.
    ● A diet rich in protein, vitamins (especially C and E), and minerals (like zinc) is
    essential for tissue repair and faster healing.
    ● Protein (eggs, fish, chicken, beans)
    ● Fruits and vegetables
    ● Enough water during the day
    Good nutrition helps the skin repair itself. People who don’t eat well or don’t drink
    enough heal more slowly.
  5. Keep the Wound Covered (If Open)
    If the bed sore is open or looks raw, it should be kept protected. Use sterile dressings
    (film, gauze, gel, or foam) as directed by a healthcare professional to protect the wound
    from infection and maintain a moist healing environment.Non-medicated dressings
    (foam or gauze) help keep the sore clean and moist so it can heal.
    A healthcare professional should show how to apply dressings safely.
  6. Control the underlying disease
    As said in the previous article, an underlying problem such as Diabetes, poor nutrition,
    anemia, and fecal and/or urinary incontinence can contribute to non-healing bedsores.
    Hence, the doctor will also treat these conditions aggressively to promote the healing of
    bedsores.
  7. Topical Natural Treatments
    Certain natural substances possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that
    may aid healing when used as part of a comprehensive care plan and after consulting a
    doctor. Topical natural treatments are mostly used for managing mild sores ( stage 1 or
    sometimes stage 2 of bed sores).
    ● Aloe Vera: Applying pure aloe vera gel can reduce pain and inflammation,
    stimulate cell regeneration, and accelerate healing, particularly in stage II ulcers.
    Aloe vera gel could serve as an innovative and effective option for managing
    these lesions. It significantly reduces pain, accelerates healing, and improves
    patients’ quality of life.
    ● Honey: Medical-grade honey has natural antibacterial and healing properties that
    can help fight infection and provide a moist, protective environment conducive to
    healing. Honey is a natural wound healer and has antimicrobial properties that
    can protect bed sores from infection. Apply raw honey to the sore and cover it
    with a clean bandage. The honey will keep the wound moist while aiding the
    body’s natural healing process.Application of honey dressing provides a better
    wound healing, rapid pain relief in cancer patients with bedsores in palliative
    settings.
    ● Creams Formulated with herbal extracts like aloe vera, calendula, and tea tree
    oil, it soothes irritated skin and supports tissue regeneration.
    ● Turmeric A paste made from turmeric powder and water (or honey) can be
    applied to the sore due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
    Make a paste by mixing turmeric powder with water or honey, and apply it directly
    to the sore. Leave it on for about 15-20 minutes before rinsing with warm water.
    This can help reduce infection and inflammation.
    ● Coconut Oil Known for its moisturizing and antibacterial effects, coconut oil can
    be applied to the skin to promote healing and maintain skin moisture.
    ● Calendula Ointments or creams containing calendula can help soothe irritated
    skin and promote the healing process.
    ● Always consult a doctor before using any natural remedies, especially if
    the condition worsens or new sores appear.
    ● Do Not Use Harmful Agents Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or iodine on
    the wound unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider, as these
    can damage healthy tissue.
  8. When to Get Medical Help
    Bed sores can quickly worsen. Stage III and IV sores require professional medical
    treatment, which may involve debridement (removal of dead tissue) and specialized
    dressings. Always consult a doctor before using any natural remedies, especially if the
    condition worsens or new sores appear.
    Seek help if:
    ● The sore is not improving
    ● It has a bad smell
    ● There is pus
    ● The skin around it becomes red or hot
    ● The person has a fever
    These are signs of infection and need professional care.
    Final Thoughts
    Bed sores can be painful and slow to heal, but with regular care—like changing
    positions, keeping the skin clean, eating well, and using cushions—many sores can get
    better without medication. The key is consistency and gentle care.Always consult a
    doctor before using any natural remedies, especially if the condition worsens or new
    sores appear.

Rose Hill Care at Home nurses and PSWs support clients with bed sores (pressure ulcers) by helping with regular repositioning to reduce pressure, monitoring skin for early signs of sores, keeping skin clean and dry, assisting with mobility, and supporting proper nutrition and hydration to promote healing. They focus on prevention, comfort, and daily care, and when sores are advanced or show signs of infection, they can help coordinate care with registered nurses or wound-care professionals for medical treatment.

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