What is microclimate?

In relation to pressure ulcer development, microclimate is a term used to describe two aspects of the interface between the skin and a support surface – temperature (of the skin or the soft tissues) and humidity or skin surface moisture at the interface between the skin and the support surface.

Why Heelift Boots Create a Cooler, Drier Microclimate

There are a few features of Heelift® Brand Boots that help create the desired cooler, drier microclimate that prevents pressure ulcer development. As the above cut-away shows, Heelift® completely offloads the heel, allowing heat and moisture to escape so long as the patient is turned regularly. Additionally, the ventilation holes found in the Heelift AFO, Heelift Glide, and Heelift Classic further help the flow of heat and moisture.

Why is microclimate important?

In a recent study published in the Journal of Tissue Viability, Amit Gefen PhD. Dept. of Biomedical Engineering wrote, “There is increasing evidence that thermodynamic conditions within and around skin tissue strongly influence the susceptibility of skin to SPUs (Superficial Pressure Ulcers)…” Successful pressure ulcer prevention depends upon a complex balance between two sets of parameters — the external loads applied to the skin and soft tissues, and the intrinsic ability of the skin and soft tissues to withstand prolonged or excessive loading. If the intrinsic resilience of the skin and soft tissues deteriorates, pressure damage is more likely to occur. Hence, a full understanding of a patient’s conditions, and immediate environment, including anything that may cause the patient’s skin to increase in temperature or moisture should be considered.