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The Essential Guide For The Most Comfortable Wheelchair Cushion
mobility


 
Wheelchairs are a central and essential part of many people's lives. In fact, approximately 3.6 million people over the age of 15 in the United States use a wheelchair. All of its parts should be suited to its user, from the wheelchair backrests to its tires, and especially the cushions. Before committing to an uncomfortable cushion that impacts your mobility, read up on the different possibilities of wheelchair cushions.

Cushion Types


  1. Foam: The most basic cushion, foam cushions are low maintenance and come at a minimal cost. They are lightweight and a very stable seating option. Some cushions come in a single density and are very firm, while others have contoured bases with multiple layers of foam, assisting with enhanced pressure management and positioning.
  2. Gel: Gel cushions are also low maintenance, but offer more pressure relief than foam cushions because they immerse one's pressure points into a gel pack. This relieves pressure greatly while still giving a very stable base and allowing advanced positioning. However, gel cushions are often more expensive and weigh more.
  3. Air: Filled with air, these cushions allow users to essentially customize their firmness as they adjust the air pressure. Air cushions are optimal for pressure relief as pressure points can sink perfectly into the cushion. Being filled with air does mean that these cushions offer less stability and a reduced ability to control positioning than foam or gel cushions. These cushions require slightly more maintenance as you need to keep an eye on the air levels and leaks can develop.



Cushion Features


Once you've determined the material you would like the cushion to be made out of, you can start looking into additional cushion features to enhance your comfort.

  1. Coccyx Cutout: For those with limited mobility who are sitting for long periods of time, a typical cushion can create an immense amount of pressure on the coccyx (aka tailbone). A coccyx cutout relieves pressure by specifically contouring cushion material in that area.
  2. Waterfall Front Cushion: An addition to the front of the cushion, this feature reduces pressure behind the knees and thighs. It essentially gives more support at the front of your wheelchair's seat.
  3. Pommel: A pommel is a large cube of cushion material that sits between your legs towards the front of the wheelchair's seat. The pommel assists with leg abduction--keeping your legs more at a hip-width distance--as well as making transfers in and out of the wheelchair easier. For those with limited mobility, the pommel also helps prevent sliding out of the chair.

When you want to lead an active lifestyle by regularly going out in your wheelchair, you will need a wheelchair cushion that perfectly comfortable for you. Pick the right one for your needs and your comfort will be well cared for.


Product Code: -988-POST-09-17-2018
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Product Summary
 
Wheelchairs are a central and essential part of many people's lives. In fact, approximately 3.6 million people over the age of 15 in the United States use a wheelchair. All of its parts should be suited to its user, from the wheelchair backrests to its tires, and especially the cushions. Before committing to an uncomfortable cushion that impacts your mobility, read up on the different possibilities of wheelchair cushions.

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