Bed sores are skin ulcers (areas of breakdown of skin) caused by prolonged pressure. Most patients are old and bedridden. Some are paralyzed. If one can avoid persistent pressure, bedsores can be prevented. The effective way to do this is by using a ripple mattress or a ripple bed during sleep, and massages and physiotherapy of the limbs. Chairs, shoes etc should be evaluated for pressure.Established bedsores, if small, can be treated by regular dressings. Large or deep bedsores need plastic surgical techniques.