A Wheelchair Cushion Can Provide Comfort, Save Your Life

A wheelchair cushion provides more than just a comfortable place to sit. If you spend a lot of time in a wheelchair, power wheelchair, or scooter because of limited mobility, the right cushion can make a real difference to your quality of life and even save you from life-threatening complications.

Cushions range in price from as little as $30 for a basic seat to a few hundred dollars for a more advanced design. A variety of technologies are available for varying levels of comfort and support. Cushions are designed to correct posture and also to relieve pressure on sensitive areas of the body, reducing the risk of pressure sores, which can lead to fatal infections if not detected and treated.

Basic cushions are made of polyurethane foam or a similar material with a waterproof covering. This is an economic, comfortable seat ideal for people with limited mobility but who don't spend as much time in a wheelchair or are not at risk of developing pressure sores. The same material can be molded to an ergonomic design, adding postural support.

Other designs include gel or air-filled cells which provide extra protection against pressure sores by conforming to the user. Different designs place cells of varying sizes and shapes in different positions to combine support with pressure relief.

Multi-layer cushions combine different technologies to correct posture and prevent and treat pressure sores at the same time. These cushions may have a metal base and may contain layers of foam of varying density, air sacs, and gel or fluid.

Wheelchair backs are also available to help correct posture and provide comfort and cushioning. They are made of foam or have a multi-layer design, with a metal frame or panels to add extra support to specific parts of the body, such as the thorax.

Power-base wheelchairs come with a variety of seats with varying levels of comfort and support. They are ergonomically designed and look similar to office chairs or car driver seats (these are referred to as "pilot" seats). The most versatile choice, especially for someone who may be at risk for pressure sores, is a power wheelchair. These wheelchairs have a similar design to that of a manual wheelchair, and the user can choose a cushion and wheelchair back combination which meets their comfort and support needs.

If you spend a lot of time in a wheelchair or suffer paralysis, you need to be very careful to avoid pressure sores. Always check for these sores and seek immediate attention if you find one. Ask your doctor or physical therapist what kind of wheelchair cushion you need to support good posture and prevent sores. Medicare or insurance may cover the cost of buying a cushion for your wheelchair if your doctor gives you a prescription.