The effectiveness of massage in preventing pressure sores: a literature review.

The prevention of pressure sores is a major concern of rehabilitation nurses. Through the years, several methods have been used to prevent pressure sores. One of the most commonly used methods is massage of bony prominences and pressure areas. However, according to most contemporary clinical guidelines, massage should be avoided. This article analyzes the extent to which these guidelines are based on research findings through a literature review on the effectiveness of massage in the prevention of pressure sores. The results of the studies that were analyzed led to the conclusion that massage as therapy for preventing pressure sores in subjects at risk for developing them is not recommended.