Wheelchair seating can be as simple as a basic comfort cushion or a very complicated seating system consisting of an expensive cushion and back support with multiple seating accessories.
The amount of seating a user requires is dependent on their physical condition and an improper seating system for a high needs user can not only be uncomfortable but can create physical injury and limit their abilities to perform daily activities.
The seating system will be set up to reduce the chances of skin damage, increase the comfort of the user, accommodate any fixed deformities, correct any non-fixed deformities and provide a stable base for sitting.
Once a wheelchair user has determined the size and type of wheelchair to purchase, the next step is choosing a wheelchair cushion. The cushion is the first step in deciding on a complete seating system. It may be the only step if the cushion provides all the stability, comfort and pressure relief the user needs. However, it is essential to have chosen a cushion before proceeding with other seating system decisions. Without attaining the best possible seating on a cushion, it isn't possible to make the proper decisions as to other seating needs the user may have.
Nowhere is the adage "you get what you pay for" more evident than in wheelchair cushions. You can 
pick up a wheelchair cushion for less than $25.00 or more than $500.00 and there is a huge difference between the two.
A low end wheelchair cushion will be cheaply made, absorb water and the foam will deteriorate very quickly; a high end wheelchair cushion will have a water proof cover, a spare cover in case of accidents, high quality long lasting foams and other other materials.
A low end wheelchair cushion can cause pressure sores; a high end wheelchair cushion can prevent pressure sores, aid in the recovery from pressure sores and help the user maintain a proper posture when seated.
Click here for more wheelchair cushion information.
Wheelchair back supports aren't as important to skin condition as wheelchair 
cushions however they do aid in posture, positioning and stability plus provide a mounting location for added accessories such as lateral supports, headrests, shoulder harnesses etc.
Anyone with any type of spinal curvature, suffers from a muscle condition that makes sitting upright unaided difficult, or balance problems will benefit from a properly fitting back support.
Click here for more wheelchair backrest information.
There aren't a lot of seat accessories for wheelchair 
cushions but there are a couple and they are
intended to keep the user's legs as straight as possible from the hips to the knees without allowing the legs to splay out or pressing together, provide added support to provide a stable level sitting base.
Accessories for back
supports are intended to aid the user in sitting as upright as possible by preventing their leaning forward or to the sides and to help keep the user's head upright and provide comfort. Wheelchair back support accessories can consist of various pads, restraint straps or headrests.
There a few seating accessories that aren't
attached to either the back support or the cushion. These accessories are usually relates to control and comfort of the feet and arms.
Notice: Information on this web site is for informational purposes only and not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by physicians, therapists or other medical professionals. All information is general in nature and may not necessarily apply to everyone as individual needs may vary.
Related Sites:
|
AccessRamps.ca |
Ceilinglift.ca |
Liftchairs.ca |
Patientlift.ca |
Porchlift.ca |
Scooterlifts.ca |
Stairlift.ca |
VanRamp.ca |
Wheelchair.ca |
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