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Back Support Types

Adjustable Tension Back Upholstery

Adjustable tension back upholstery is least expensive of all the back supports designed for wheelchairs and it is the least obvious of all the back supports. Some wheelchair manufacturers offer adjustable tension back upholstery as an option when ordering a wheelchair but they are available as an aftermarket product for those who find they need one after purchasing their wheelchair or when ordering a wheelchair that doesn't offer them as an option.

Adjustable tension upholstery is basically wheelchair upholstery that has 5 to 10 adjustable horizontal straps that can be individually adjusted to allow the various heights of the upholstery to be set at different tensions (examples: the lower section can be tight to provide lumbar support while the upper section can be loosened to allow the user to recline back into the back).

Adjustable tension back upholstery looks much the same as regular back upholstery, will allow the wheelchair to be folded and not have to be readjusted unless the user's condition changes.

Contoured Back Supports

Contoured wheelchair back supports are generally moulded from aluminum or a plastic-like material and curve forward at the user's sides to provide some lateral support and comfort. To customize these backs to fit the user a bit more comfortably or add extra support in areas extra pads can often be added to the back under the upholstery.

These back supports are removable to allow folding of the wheelchair for transporting and storage and can usually be mounted at various heights and angles to achieve the maximum comfort possible.

The curved backs are the most generic of the back supports available for wheelchairs and are usually suitable for the majority of users without complicated seating requirements.

Planer Back Supports

Planer wheelchair back supports, often referred to flat backs, are most commonly used for children but are available for adults as well. These backs come as either "flat" or "curved" although you practically have to use a straight edge to actually see the curve. Like the contoured wheelchair back supports the planer backs are removable so then wheelchair can be folded.

The big advantage of the planer backs is they can support many different seating accessories, have several different types of mounting hardware and be ordered in just about any size needed for the user.

Custom Contoured Back Supports

All of the previously mentioned back supports are available as aftermarket products for wheelchairs but aftermarket products do not work for everyone. People with very complicated seating needs will often require a custom seating system created by either an orthotist or seating technician of some sort.

The custom back support is usually part of a total custom seating system and will be made of a combination of foams and other seating products to contour exactly to the shape of the user's body. Adjustments can be made as needed with a custom system and it is not unusual for the user to return for adjustments two or three times following receiving their seating.

 

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.

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