Which hospital bed is gentler on the tailbone? study reveals pressure differences

NCT ID NCT06661954

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study measured the pressure on the tailbone (sacral area) from two different hospital bed systems: a low air loss mattress and a standard hospital mattress. 18 healthy adults were tested lying flat and with the head of the bed raised 30 degrees. The goal was to see which bed design might help prevent bedsores.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to

If successful, this research could help hospitals choose bed systems that reduce pressure on the tailbone, potentially lowering the risk of bedsores in patients.

What could go wrong

This was a small study in healthy volunteers, not patients. Results may not apply to people who are bedridden or have fragile skin. The study is complete and does not test any new treatment.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

decubitus ulcer

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Alabama

    Birmingham, Alabama, 35294, United States