Pressure relief cushions can be of great help to individuals confined to wheelchairs. Sitting for many hours causes problems and these products can help to address these issues. They help to redistribute weight and prevent shear force, keeping the skin healthy. They are also an important tool for postural 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.
A number of different factors must be taken into consideration when choosing the right cushion. It is important to have the input of a clinical professional in making the decision. How long the user spends in the chair, how much moving around takes place and other factors like incontinence and posture problems must all be considered.
The proper combination of cushion and wheelchair is also important as there are various depths and sizes of cushions for purchase. The size of wheelchair, position of armrests and height of chair back all matter when it comes to choice. An individual does not want to sit too high or too low in the chair.
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.
Static air cushions use air-filled balloons or pathways for channeling the air. An air alternating cushion works with a pump that allows rows of air cells to inflate and deflate. The main drawback of an air cushion is that it requires regular maintenance to ensure the correct degree of 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.
A number of different factors must be taken into consideration when choosing the right cushion. It is important to have the input of a clinical professional in making the decision. How long the user spends in the chair, how much moving around takes place and other factors like incontinence and posture problems must all be considered.
The proper combination of cushion and wheelchair is also important as there are various depths and sizes of cushions for purchase. The size of wheelchair, position of armrests and height of chair back all matter when it comes to choice. An individual does not want to sit too high or too low in the chair.
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.
Static air cushions use air-filled balloons or pathways for channeling the air. An air alternating cushion works with a pump that allows rows of air cells to inflate and deflate. The main drawback of an air cushion is that it requires regular maintenance to ensure the correct degree of 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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