What is known about pressure injury prevention and management approaches among individuals with mobility impairments participating in disability sport? A scoping review

Abstract

Introduction

Pressure injuries are a significant health concern for individuals with mobility impairments, impacting participation and quality of life. Sport is a meaningful leisure occupation for many but poses unique occupational, physical, and environmental challenges which increase the risk of pressure injuries. Occupational therapists can support those with mobility impairments in balancing pressure injury risk and participation in sport; however, little is known about effective management in sport. This scoping review aimed to map existing evidence on pressure injury prevention and management approaches among individuals with mobility impairments participating in disability sports.

Methods

A systematic search of six databases, grey literature, policy documents, and guidelines was conducted in August 2025. Sources were included if they addressed individuals of any age, participating in sports using adaptive equipment and reported prevention or management approaches for pressure injuries. Findings were synthesised using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework.

Consumer and community involvement

Consumers and community members were not involved in this scoping review.

Results

Ten sources met inclusion criteria, with representation from eight disability sports: seven quantitative studies, one mixed methods study, one position statement, and one clinical guideline. Owing to the immaturity of the field, both the clinical guideline and position statement drew on minimal evidence specific to sport, limiting their applicability.

Conclusion

Evidence on pressure injury prevention and management in disability sport is largely focused on the body functions and structures domain, with limited consideration for activities, participation, and environmental factors that influence risk. The evidence base remains underdeveloped, limiting occupational therapists' access to evidence-informed strategies for pressure injury prevention and management in this population. Future research should prioritise occupational analyses of sports participation, mapping tasks, environments, and equipment interfaces across different sports and athlete groups. Generating sport-specific evidence will enable robust guidelines and occupation-based interventions that align with athletes' real-world experiences.