Pressure relief cushions are important for those who spend their time sitting in wheelchairs. These long periods of sitting cause compression of skin and tissue between bones and the surface of a chair, resulting in circulation problems. Use of these products can help to keep the skin healthy, reduce shear force and help with stability.
When skin and tissue are compressed between bone and the chair, the blood cannot circulate properly and oxygen and nutrient supply to the cells decreases. Weight bearing bones near the skin surface, like the buttocks, are particularly at risk. This may result in ulcers that can be very serious, leading to hospitalization and surgery. Shear force occurs when the skin and tissue are pulled in different directions, such as when an individual slides down in the chair.
Each and every individual will have different requirements when it comes to choosing a cushion. A clinical professional will be able to assist with making the right choice. Specific factors such as how much time is spent in a chair, how much the user moves around, stability of posture and nature of a disability must all be taken into consideration.
The size and construction of the wheelchair must be taken into consideration when purchasing a cushion. This will help to determine what depth and size of cushion is required. Once the user is sitting on the cushion, the armrests should be at the correct height.
Different materials like air, foam and gel are used in the manufacture of these products. These materials are used because they conform to the shape and movement of the body, allowing for distribution of pressure. Qualities like weight, heat conduction, stability, durability and cost vary from product to product.
A foam cushion is one of the least expensive options but it wears down quite quickly and can become compressed. There are many different densities available today, some of which are more resilient than others. Memory foam that allows conformity is the most effective. The fact that foam is easier to cut and cheaper than some of the other options affords therapists the opportunity to try out different shapes.
An air floatation cushion supports the body with air. For example, it may consist of rows of small rubber balloons or it may channel air via pathways. A cushion like this is relatively lightweight and waterproof. There is also an air alternating variation that works with a pump, allowing cells to deflate and inflate. These products require regular maintenance to ensure proper inflation.
A gel cushion conforms well to body shape and movement, providing good weight distribution. It is also suitable for those who often feel hot and sweaty as it helps to keep the skin feeling cool. However, it is heavy in weight which makes it unsuitable for users who often have to be lifted in and out of the car or the wheelchair.
The cost of pressure relief cushions can vary considerably, according to the materials with which they are made, covers, size and depth. It is worthwhile to purchase a product with proven performance over time. This may not be the cheapest option but durability, comfort and effectiveness should take precedence over cost.
When skin and tissue are compressed between bone and the chair, the blood cannot circulate properly and oxygen and nutrient supply to the cells decreases. Weight bearing bones near the skin surface, like the buttocks, are particularly at risk. This may result in ulcers that can be very serious, leading to hospitalization and surgery. Shear force occurs when the skin and tissue are pulled in different directions, such as when an individual slides down in the chair.
Each and every individual will have different requirements when it comes to choosing a cushion. A clinical professional will be able to assist with making the right choice. Specific factors such as how much time is spent in a chair, how much the user moves around, stability of posture and nature of a disability must all be taken into consideration.
The size and construction of the wheelchair must be taken into consideration when purchasing a cushion. This will help to determine what depth and size of cushion is required. Once the user is sitting on the cushion, the armrests should be at the correct height.
Different materials like air, foam and gel are used in the manufacture of these products. These materials are used because they conform to the shape and movement of the body, allowing for distribution of pressure. Qualities like weight, heat conduction, stability, durability and cost vary from product to product.
A foam cushion is one of the least expensive options but it wears down quite quickly and can become compressed. There are many different densities available today, some of which are more resilient than others. Memory foam that allows conformity is the most effective. The fact that foam is easier to cut and cheaper than some of the other options affords therapists the opportunity to try out different shapes.
An air floatation cushion supports the body with air. For example, it may consist of rows of small rubber balloons or it may channel air via pathways. A cushion like this is relatively lightweight and waterproof. There is also an air alternating variation that works with a pump, allowing cells to deflate and inflate. These products require regular maintenance to ensure proper inflation.
A gel cushion conforms well to body shape and movement, providing good weight distribution. It is also suitable for those who often feel hot and sweaty as it helps to keep the skin feeling cool. However, it is heavy in weight which makes it unsuitable for users who often have to be lifted in and out of the car or the wheelchair.
The cost of pressure relief cushions can vary considerably, according to the materials with which they are made, covers, size and depth. It is worthwhile to purchase a product with proven performance over time. This may not be the cheapest option but durability, comfort and effectiveness should take precedence over cost.
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