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.
Blood needs to circulate freely so that oxygen and nutrients can be delivered to the cells. When blood flow decreases, problems like ulcers can occur and areas like the buttocks and shoulders are particularly vulnerable. Ulcers can cause significant problems, resulting in a need for surgery at times. Shear force is a problem that occurs when the skin outer layer and the inner tissue are pulled apart. This can happen when a person slips 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.
There are many different types of materials used for these products. Foam, air, gel and water are all used for their ability to distribute pressure, allowing blood to circulate freely, limiting edema and enhancing healing. These materials all have different qualities with regard to stability, heat conduction, moisture absorption, weight and cost.
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.
Air filled cushions are comfortable and widely used. Those with pumps that allow rows of cells filled with air to inflate and deflate, thus alternating the point of pressure, are particularly effective. The main disadvantage is that an air cushion has to be checked regularly to make sure that it is properly inflated.
A gel cushion provides excellent weight distribution as it conforms to the shape of the body. It is very comfortable and it helps keep the surface temperature of the skin cool. A disadvantage is its weight as portability is important for users who frequently have to lift in and out of a wheelchair and a car.
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.
Blood needs to circulate freely so that oxygen and nutrients can be delivered to the cells. When blood flow decreases, problems like ulcers can occur and areas like the buttocks and shoulders are particularly vulnerable. Ulcers can cause significant problems, resulting in a need for surgery at times. Shear force is a problem that occurs when the skin outer layer and the inner tissue are pulled apart. This can happen when a person slips 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.
There are many different types of materials used for these products. Foam, air, gel and water are all used for their ability to distribute pressure, allowing blood to circulate freely, limiting edema and enhancing healing. These materials all have different qualities with regard to stability, heat conduction, moisture absorption, weight and cost.
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.
Air filled cushions are comfortable and widely used. Those with pumps that allow rows of cells filled with air to inflate and deflate, thus alternating the point of pressure, are particularly effective. The main disadvantage is that an air cushion has to be checked regularly to make sure that it is properly inflated.
A gel cushion provides excellent weight distribution as it conforms to the shape of the body. It is very comfortable and it helps keep the surface temperature of the skin cool. A disadvantage is its weight as portability is important for users who frequently have to lift in and out of a wheelchair and a car.
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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