Pressure relief training device: the microcalculator.

The use of a commercially available timer/microcalculator as a pressure relief training device for spinal cord injury patients is discussed. The device can be programmed to emit a high frequency tone at the end of a specified time interval, and then reset itself to repeat the cycle as long as is desired. The device's low cost, high reliability, convenient size and attractiveness to patients contribute to high potential as a training device. A rationale for using such a device soon after the onset of disability, rather than after pressure sores develop, is discussed.