When you sit all day in a wheelchair or scooter, comfort becomes a big issue. Poor posture can lead to back pain and other problems, and an uncomfortable chair is a big detriment to productivity. Areas that are under constant pressure can also develop painful sores. Because of this, many people make use of wheelchair cushions to improve the fit of their chairs. If you already have one of these problems, cushions can be part of the healing process.
Many different types of wheelchair cushions are available, including gel filled models, foam cushions, air-filled ones, and even sheepskin. There are also attractive covers available, so that you can personalize your chair. Back support cushions are also sold for those who find that their chairs don't provide adequate lumbar support. For people whose weight makes long term sitting a problem, bariatric cushions may provide the support to reduce this issue.
It's important to make sure that a cushion for your chair is comfortable. Otherwise, it could cause as many problems as it solves. Some specialty cushions are available for people who want something unusual. These include swivel seat cushions, which turn three hundred and sixty degrees and make getting in or out of a chair much easier; contour cushions made from foam and intended for those who can perform independent weight shifts; portable wheelchair cushions, and very firm models.
No one material is right for everyone. Becoming familiar with the types of cushions can help you choose the correct one for you, however. Here's some information about the major kinds of wheelchair cushion materials.
Foam or flexible matrix – this is a flexible, lightweight material used in making support surfaces.
Visco elastic foam – similar to regular foam, this variety is more elastic. It's commonly called memory foam, and is used in some mattresses and pillows. This material was originally invented about forty years ago by NASA.
Non-deforming foam – this material is usually used in the bases of cushions, since it remains firm under pressure. It's also used in very sturdy cushions.
Bonded foam – this refers to different kinds of foam glued together. The cushion may or may not state what types.
Air cushion – inflatable cushions made of air-tight membrane.
Water cushion – made from an impermeable membrane and containing water, these cushions feel something like a water bed.
Gel or solid elastomer – relatively difficult to compress, but soft, these wheelchair cushions contain a very firm gel
Segmented cushions – the surface of these cushions are divided into distinct segments, allowing each portion of the cushion to move separately.
Convoluted cushion – a type of wheelchair cushion with protrusions and depressions. Similar to egg-crate foam.
Contoured cushion – These are shaped to fit the form of the lower body. Many bariatric cushions are in this design.
Cutout cushion – areas of these wheelchair cushions have been removed in order to provide more appropriate support.
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