There are many types of wheel chair cushion that will help to
make sitting in the wheel chair more comfortable. With each type
there are numerous suppliers that provide these cushions. It is
important to spend time reading some of the reviews for all
these different types.
There are four main types of cushions, each with their own
features, which people can choose from. The choice of the
cushion will depend on the type of wheel chair you use, the
amount of time spend in the chair, the stability of your posture
and how much you move around in the chair.
Air Flotation Wheel Chair Cushion
A typical example here is the Roho cushion. This cushion
contains a number of rubber balloons that are interconnected and
set in rows. The pressure is spread evenly against the skin and
because it is a closed system it won’t flatten like other
cushions might do.
For people with pressure sores balloons in specific areas can be
tied off to prevent the cushion from touching the area. People
who move around a lot in their wheel chairs might find the air
cushion somewhat unstable, but manufacturers are constantly
working on new designs. Although the balloons used in these
cushions are made from quality rubber, punctures do occur,
occasionally. It is, however, a quite simple process to fix it.
It does need some regular maintenance but it has the advantage
that it is waterproof and can be used in a bath or inside a
boat.
Foam Wheel Chair Cushion
Foam is lightweight and comes in a variety of densities and
qualities. Foam manufacturing has come a long way and the new
types of foam are of a much higher quality than before. Multiple
layers are used to assist with pressure relief which will
prevent pressure sores. Foam is inexpensive and easy to work
with. It is, however, not that durable as it eventually wears
out and looses its shape. When the foam in foam cushions
compresses it has the danger of forming pressure points. Because
foam is inexpensive many users are not too concerned about this.
With the advancement of technology and new designs you might be
able to “upgrade” your foam cushion every time you buy a new
one.
Gel Wheel Chair Cushion
Gel is normally used in combination with foam for pressure
relieve. The cushion conforms to the pressure placed on it and
is very comfortable. Gel cushions are mostly a bit heavier than
air or just foam cushions. Unfortunately gel cushions can
sometimes leak and it can be problematic if the leak is at one
of the seams. Gel is also more temperature sensitive and this
should be taken into consideration if you live in an area with
extreme temperatures. Most of the cushions come with a guarantee
and waterproof covers are common features.
Urethane Honeycomb Wheel Chair Cushion
This is the most recent development in wheel chair cushions and
they are extremely lightweight with no chance of leakages. It
resembles the structure of a natural honeycomb and the tiny
perforations together with the structure allow for air
ventilation than can help in preventing skin irritation and heat
build-up.
Because of the overwhelming variety in types and designs, as
well as price difference, it is not that easy to choose the
right cushion. The first consideration should be the medical
need of the person. Other important things would be comfort,
prevention of sores and affordability.
