Wheelchair Cushions...You Deserve a Soft Seat

Wheelchair cushions give comfort to those who have to sit in a wheelchair for long periods of time. I'm sure there are other applications where they'd be very useful, but we won't cover those in this article.

The main function of a wheelchair cushion is to prevent pressure sores. We who are not confined to a wheel chair, probably don't think too much about it. But, did you know while sitting, only one third of our bodies surface area supports our entire body weight?

So obviously, if there's inadequate cushioning, pressure remains static in one place or spot on the body and pressure sores develop. Not good.

Cushions also help to support proper posture. I don't have to tell you why that's good. Many of us, since we were children have been hearing: "sit up straight", "don't slump in your seat". etc.

Now, in case you we're one of the lucky ones who didn't have to hear that all the time. Here it is: maintaining proper posture is essential for proper spinal cord alignment and helps prevent many future problems in your back, neck, and head.

Where was I?...there are different types, shapes and manufacturers of wheelchair cushions. You need to select and use the most suitable for you.

There are three main types of cushions.

They are:

1. gel

2. foam

3. Air flotation

Each of these types are different and useful in their own way. While each have their advantages and disadvantages, you have to identify the relative utility and comfort level of each and ask yourself how you'll use it and how much money you have to spend.

Among the different wheelchair cushions, foam cushions are the least expensive. Your physical therapist (or you), can cut them into a suitable shape to fit your wheelchair. Although foam cushions have a shorter life span, their low cost still make them a popular item. Their cost: starting as low as $20 for a basic piece of 2" thick foam to over $300 for a shaped, new type memory foam.

Gel wheelchair cushions contain specially engineered gel fluids in cells or pouches usually attached to a foam base. Gel cushions are very comfortable due to their ability to distribute pressure. Their disadvantage is they weigh more.

I guess this can make them a little more difficult to move, lift and carry. Most (not all), gel cushions use a combination of foam and gel. The gel cells are usually set inside a layer of foam or foam shell. Their cost: starting as low as $35 to as high as $400.

Air flotation wheelchair cushions provide support through air filled chambers usually with many separate air cells. These cushions provide even pressure of air against your skin. Their main disadvantage is the possibility of air leakage because of a puncture, etc. They are very comfortable but also the most expensive. Their cost: starting at $200 up to about $400.

So, which wheelchair cushion is best for you? Obviously, you'll have to decide that.

After all, it's your backside trying to find all day comfort.

Owner of AssistiveLivingMobility.Com , Mr. Rougeaux has written various articles about mobility equipment and assistive living