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Treatment for Bed Sores on Buttocks – What to Know and Look Out for

Reviewed by NYC Wound | October 7, 2025

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Bed sores, also known as pressure sores, pressure ulcers, or pressure injuries, are wounds that develop when prolonged pressure reduces blood flow to the skin and underlying tissues. They most often occur in areas where bones are close to the surface, making these spots more vulnerable to damage from constant pressure.
The buttocks are one of the most common areas for bed sores because this region bears a significant amount of weight when sitting or lying down. People who are immobile, use wheelchairs, or spend extended periods in bed are particularly at risk. Friction, moisture, and lack of movement can make the buttocks especially prone to skin breakdown.
Early recognition and proper care are critical to preventing serious complications. Identifying changes in skin color, texture, or sensitivity before a sore worsens can make treatment more effective and reduce discomfort. At NYC Wound, licensed Wound Care Specialists provide personalized in-home care, making it easier for patients to manage and prevent bed sores without the stress of traveling. With expert attention and timely intervention, many bed sores can be effectively managed or even prevented altogether.
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Pressure Ulcers

Pressure ulcers are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue that occur when continuous pressure limits blood flow to a specific area. Without proper circulation, the skin and tissues do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, leading to damage and breakdown over time. These wounds can range from mild redness on the surface of the skin to deep injuries affecting muscles and bones.
They usually form when a person remains in one position for too long, such as sitting in a chair or lying in bed without shifting weight. The constant pressure compresses small blood vessels, preventing normal circulation and causing the skin to weaken. Friction and moisture can make the damage worse, especially in sensitive areas.
Pressure ulcers commonly develop in areas where bones are close to the surface and cushioning tissue is limited. The most frequent locations include:
  • The buttocks and tailbone area, especially in people who sit or lie down for long periods
  • The heels, where pressure from resting in bed is concentrated
  • The hips, which bear weight when lying on one side
Understanding how and where pressure ulcers form is the first step in preventing them and ensuring proper treatment when they occur.
How to treat Pressure Ulcers
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Pressure Sores

Pressure sores are another term used to describe the same condition as pressure ulcers. They occur when skin and underlying tissues are damaged due to ongoing pressure, friction, or shear. The name “sore” is commonly used because these wounds often appear on the skin’s surface and can be painful, especially as they progress.
On the buttocks, pressure sores may begin subtly but can quickly become more noticeable if left unchecked. Visible signs to look for include:
  • Redness that does not fade after relieving pressure
  • Tenderness, pain, or discomfort in the affected area
  • Swelling or warmth around the skin
  • Open wounds, blisters, or areas where the skin has broken down
Sores on the buttocks can worsen rapidly because this area experiences frequent pressure from sitting and lying down, often combined with moisture and friction. If untreated, what starts as minor redness can progress to deeper wounds that are difficult to heal and may lead to serious infections. Prompt attention to the earliest signs of pressure sores is essential to prevent complications and protect overall health.
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Pressure Injuries

The medical community increasingly uses the term “pressure injuries” instead of “pressure sores” or “ulcers” to better describe the damage that occurs beneath the skin. The word “injury” reflects the fact that these wounds are not just superficial but can involve deeper layers of tissue and pose serious health risks if untreated.
Pressure injuries can affect several levels of tissue, including:
  • Skin – the outermost layer, where early signs like redness or irritation appear
  • Fat – the layer beneath the skin, which provides cushioning but can become damaged with prolonged pressure
  • Muscle – deeper tissue that is highly vulnerable because it requires consistent blood flow
  • Bone – in severe cases, injuries may extend to the bone, creating a high risk of infection and long-term complications
One of the challenges with pressure injuries is that the damage can progress beneath the skin before it becomes visible on the surface. In some cases, the outer layer of skin may appear intact while significant tissue breakdown is happening underneath. This makes regular monitoring and early intervention especially important, particularly for individuals who are at high risk of developing pressure-related wounds.

Stages of Pressure

Pressure sores, also known as pressure injuries, are categorized into stages that indicate how far the damage has progressed. Each stage reflects the depth and severity of the wound, which helps caregivers and medical professionals determine the right treatment approach.
The four stages of pressure sores include:
  • Stage 1: The skin is red and irritated but not broken. The area may feel warm, tender, or firm compared to surrounding skin. Early detection at this stage is critical because it can often be reversed with proper care and pressure relief.
  • Stage 2: The damage extends beyond the surface, appearing as an open sore, blister, or shallow crater. The surrounding skin may look discolored, swollen, or feel painful. Prompt wound care and protection are needed to stop the sore from worsening.
  • Stage 3: The wound deepens and reaches the tissue beneath the skin. At this stage, fat may be visible, and the sore has a crater-like appearance. Healing becomes more difficult, and the risk of infection increases significantly.
  • Stage 4: The most severe stage, where the wound extends into muscle, tendons, or even bone. These injuries are very serious, often requiring advanced medical treatment, long healing times, and sometimes surgery.
Knowing the stage of a pressure sore is essential for effective treatment planning. Each stage requires a different level of care, ranging from simple repositioning and skin protection in early stages to intensive wound management and medical intervention in advanced stages. Proper staging ensures timely care and improves the chances of healing while reducing the risk of serious complications.

Risk Factors

Not everyone has the same level of risk for developing bed sores on the buttocks. Certain individuals are more vulnerable due to their health conditions, age, or mobility limitations. Recognizing who is most at risk can help caregivers and patients take preventive measures before sores develop.
Those who are especially at risk include:
  • People with limited mobility or who use wheelchairs – Remaining in one position for extended periods increases continuous pressure on the buttocks, making sores more likely.
  • Older adults with fragile skin – Aging skin tends to be thinner, less elastic, and more prone to tearing or breaking down under stress.
  • Patients with chronic illnesses, poor circulation, or poor nutrition – Conditions like diabetes, vascular disease, or malnutrition reduce the body’s ability to heal and protect itself from tissue damage.
Lifestyle and care-related factors also play a major role in the development of bed sores. Spending long hours sitting without repositioning puts added pressure on the buttocks, while poor hygiene can increase skin irritation and the risk of infection. Inadequate hydration, lack of proper cushioning, and unaddressed incontinence issues can further raise the chances of sores forming. Addressing these factors early on can significantly lower the risk and promote healthier skin.
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Skin Care

Proper skin care is essential for preventing bed sores on the buttocks. Daily attention to the skin can help maintain its integrity, reduce pressure, and lower the risk of developing painful wounds.
Some daily prevention tips include:
  • Repositioning frequently – Changing positions at least every two hours when lying down or every hour when sitting helps relieve pressure and improve blood flow.
  • Using cushions or padding – Soft cushions, foam pads, or specialized mattresses can reduce pressure on the buttocks and protect sensitive areas.
  • Regular skin checks – Inspecting the skin daily for redness, irritation, or early signs of breakdown allows for prompt intervention before a sore develops.
Maintaining clean and healthy skin also plays a key role in prevention:
  • Moisturizing – Keeping the skin hydrated prevents dryness and cracking, which can make it more susceptible to injury.
  • Cleaning properly – Gently cleansing the skin after sweating or incontinence helps prevent irritation and infection.
  • Keeping skin dry – Excess moisture weakens the skin, so it is important to thoroughly dry the area after washing or in cases of incontinence.
Consistent skin care, combined with pressure relief and monitoring, can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing bed sores and support overall skin health.

Treating Pressure Sores

Treating pressure sores on the buttocks requires proper wound care, pressure relief, and sometimes medical intervention, depending on the severity. Early and consistent treatment can prevent complications and promote faster healing. NYC Wound provides expert in-home care for pressure sores, bringing licensed Wound Care Specialists directly to patients to manage and treat these wounds effectively.
General treatment approaches include:
  • Cleaning and dressing wounds – Keeping the sore clean reduces infection risk and supports healing. Appropriate dressings protect the wound while maintaining a moist healing environment.
  • Relieving pressure – Using cushions, specialized mattresses, or frequent repositioning helps reduce stress on the affected area and prevents further tissue damage.
  • Medical treatments – Severe cases may require debridement to remove dead tissue, antibiotics to treat infection, or advanced wound care therapies to promote healing.
Seek professional medical help immediately if:
  • The sore does not improve or worsen despite home care
  • There are signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, swelling, or pus
  • The wound is deep or exposes underlying tissue or bone
  • The patient experiences increased pain, fever, or other systemic symptoms
By contacting NYC Wound, patients receive prompt, professional care that reduces complications and supports faster recovery from pressure sores.
Preventing and treating bed sores on the buttocks relies on early intervention, regular monitoring, and consistent care. Individuals at risk should check their skin daily for changes and take steps to relieve pressure. NYC Wound provides expert in-home care, offering licensed Wound Care Specialists who guide patients through proper treatment, skin care, and pressure relief. Consistent cleaning, moisturizing, and using cushions can significantly improve healing and reduce complications when supported by professional care.

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