Selecting a therapeutic mattress for pressure wounds can feel overwhelming — especially when even many medical professionals use outdated or incorrect terminology. At MedEquip Health, our goal is to simplify the decision-making process so you can confidently choose the right support surface for your loved one’s comfort and healing.

What Is Low Air Loss — and When Do You Need It?

You’ve likely heard the term low air loss mattress, but it’s often misunderstood. The more accurate term is microclimate management — a treatment category focused on moisture control. This is especially important for patients with wounds that leak fluid, excessive sweating, yeast overgrowth, or specific Braden Scale risk factors.

The truth? Only 5–10% of wound patients require true low air loss therapy. Most benefit more from alternating pressure or lateral rotation support.

Treatment Options: Alternating Pressure, Lateral Rotation, or Both?

• Alternating Pressure Mattresses work by shifting air between internal cells, redistributing pressure across the body. This minimizes the need for frequent manual repositioning, which can be exhausting for both patient and caregiver.

• Lateral Rotation Mattresses gently turn the patient — usually about 20 degrees every 12 to 15 minutes — allowing for offloading without waking them during the night. This means better rest for the patient and the caregiver.

Some mattresses allow you to switch between modes or even combine them, offering flexibility as care needs change. Our team can walk you through these options.

Understanding Shear Forces and Immersion

The majority of pressure wounds aren’t caused by direct pressure — they’re caused by shear forces, where the skin and tissue are pulled in opposite directions. That’s why true medical-grade mattresses are designed as sleep on, not sleep in surfaces.

Mattresses with excessive sinkage, like memory foam or full-immersion types, can actually increase shear risk. Instead, you want a mattress with controlled immersion — just enough to redistribute pressure without creating friction or trapping the patient.

Our Top Recommendation: Span Care Convertible Mattress

If you're not sure whether you need a powered mattress now — or might later — the Span Care Convertible Mattress is our top pick.

• Use it without power as a reactive therapy surface

• Add the optional 5900 pump at any time to convert it into an active therapy system

• It holds air even when unplugged — perfect for peace of mind during power outages

This mattress effectively supports the prevention and healing of pressure wounds and shearing injuries for bedbound patients.

Need Help Choosing a Wound Care Mattress?

Our product experts are here to guide you through treatment options tailored to your loved one’s needs. Contact us or shop pressure relief mattresses today.