Pressure relief cushions are an important tool for helping individuals required to sit in wheelchairs for long periods of time. They help to maintain the health of the skin by distributing pressure in a variety of ways. They also help give postural stability and prevent shear force.
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.
A cushion has to be selected according to individual requirements. A clinical professional is best able to decide on what is most suitable for a particular individual. Factors such as spinal problems and incontinence must be considered as well as how much time is spent in the chair and how much mobility there is.
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 and it comes in a range of densities and varying degrees of memory. If the foam is cross cut, contoured or convoluted, it allows greater conformity so that the surface moves with the user. As it is relatively inexpensive and easy to cut, a therapist can experiment with shapes without incurring too much expense. On the downside it does wear down more quickly than other materials, losing its shape and becoming compressed.
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.
Sores and ulcers are more likely to develop when skin is damp, so a cushion that wicks moisture away from the body is a good idea, especially for people who tend to get hot easily. Gel is useful for this reason and it is also comfortable, conforming well to body shape and providing good weight distribution. One disadvantage is that it is heavy, making it unsuitable for users who need a light weight for easy portability.
Pressure relief cushions vary in cost, depending on materials used and complexity of construction. Various facts need to be considered when making a purchase including durability, ease of cleaning, comfort and effectiveness. A more expensive item may be more cost effective in the long term.
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.
A cushion has to be selected according to individual requirements. A clinical professional is best able to decide on what is most suitable for a particular individual. Factors such as spinal problems and incontinence must be considered as well as how much time is spent in the chair and how much mobility there is.
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 and it comes in a range of densities and varying degrees of memory. If the foam is cross cut, contoured or convoluted, it allows greater conformity so that the surface moves with the user. As it is relatively inexpensive and easy to cut, a therapist can experiment with shapes without incurring too much expense. On the downside it does wear down more quickly than other materials, losing its shape and becoming compressed.
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.
Sores and ulcers are more likely to develop when skin is damp, so a cushion that wicks moisture away from the body is a good idea, especially for people who tend to get hot easily. Gel is useful for this reason and it is also comfortable, conforming well to body shape and providing good weight distribution. One disadvantage is that it is heavy, making it unsuitable for users who need a light weight for easy portability.
Pressure relief cushions vary in cost, depending on materials used and complexity of construction. Various facts need to be considered when making a purchase including durability, ease of cleaning, comfort and effectiveness. A more expensive item may be more cost effective in the long term.
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