Pressure wounds (or bed sores as they are sometimes known) are a painful and unfortunately common occurrence in people with disabilities or limited mobility.

These wounds occur through prolonged pressure on an area of the body, as the tissue is compressed between the weight of the body and bone.  This can occur in patients who are confined to a bed or wheelchair for extended periods of time. The most common places for pressure wounds to occur is the tailbone, heels, hips and buttocks.

Continuing wounds can have a negative impact on the enjoyment, mobility and lifestyle of both the sufferers and their carers.

Some preventative measures can be taken in the form of reducing pressure on the area and thorough wound care.  However, while these methods can be helpful in the short-term, a more comprehensive and targeted strategy is needed to increase the wellbeing and comfort of people who suffer from these lesions.

Nutrition plays an incredibly important role, not only overall health, but the ability of the body to prevent and heal illnesses and injuries.

Dietary supplementation specifically using L-Arginine has been proven to show a substantially improved rate of healing in people with pressure ulcers.

L-Arginine is an amino acid that increases the synthesis of protein within the human body. Protein is essential to healthy muscle development and healing.  Additional L-Arginine is not required within a daily diet for normal muscle function, however extra supplements of 9mg per day will assist in the treatment of pressure wounds for people with disabilities or limited mobility.

L-arginine not only increases protein metabolism, which is essential for muscle healing; but it also assists in creating pathways for collagen, which strengthen the resilience of the wound to further deterioration.

Finally supplements of L-arginine can act as a preventative measure by boosting the immune system and improving the secretion of growth hormones needed to create new tissue.

To increase your intake of L-arginine to wound healing levels you can try one of the following supplements:

• Arginaid is a drink mix that contains 4.5 grams of L-arginine as well as vitamins C and E.  Just mix it in with your daily water or your fresh fruit or vegetable juice.
• Arginaid Extra is a pre-mixed clear liquid supplement that has 10.5 grams of protein and 4.5 grams of L-arginine.
• Cubitan is a ready-made high protein drink that contains 20 grams of protein and 3 grams of arginine per 250mL serving.

To decide which supplement is suitable for your needs it is best to speak to an Accredited Practising Dietitian who can take into account your overall nutritional needs.