Tue Jun 24 00:30:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the text, suitable for publication in The Hindu:

**News Article:**

**New Mattress Design Could Revolutionize Bedsore Prevention**

**Los Angeles, June 24, 2025** – Researchers at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) have unveiled a revolutionary mattress design that could dramatically reduce the incidence of pressure ulcers, commonly known as bedsores. Departing from conventional approaches that focus on minimizing pressure, the new design strategically alternates pressure points to improve blood flow and tissue health.

Published in the journal *Science Robotics* on June 18th, the study details the development of a full-sized research bed equipped with 1,260 electric rams. These rams create a dynamic surface of alternating “hills” and “valleys,” effectively shifting pressure and preventing prolonged compression of specific areas of the skin.

Using an anatomically correct dummy and pressure-mapping technology, the research team discovered that patterns with higher peak pressures, when coupled with significant pressure differences, were surprisingly effective at reducing the total area of skin subjected to damaging compression. The optimal configuration involved a 12-13 cm gap between hills and a 2.5 cm difference in height between hilltops and valley bottoms.

The team then created a functional prototype mattress using flexible plastic panels and metal strips. A spring-assisted mechanism allows for easy switching between two stable surface configurations, requiring minimal force (around 85 N) to operate.

Compared to a standard hospital foam pad, the new mattress design reduced the area under critical pressure by a factor of 34. Furthermore, its performance remained consistent across a range of individual pressure sensitivities, suggesting its applicability to a wide range of patients.

“Our findings challenge the conventional wisdom surrounding pressure ulcer prevention,” said lead researcher [Researcher’s Name – Not provided in source]. “By strategically alternating pressure, we can promote blood flow and significantly reduce the risk of tissue damage.”

The researchers believe their innovative mattress design holds significant promise for improving the quality of life for bedridden patients and reducing the burden of bedsores on healthcare systems. The simple design would be easily operated by healthcare workers to improve patient care.

Read More