Choosing the right wheelchair cushion
When choosing a wheelchair cushion to suit the needs of yourself, a patient, or a friend or loved one who is disabled, it helps to take a look at the various types, shapes, and styles of wheelchair cushions. There are so many types of wheelchair cushions that it might seem overwhelming at first, but once you narrow down to your needs, the choice may be much easier. Among the things you should consider when looking for a wheelchair cushion, other than the size of the wheelchair, is the level of risk involved in the client. These can include factors such as skin integrity, positioning needs, and the client's preferences. Any particular issues they have, such as incontinence, functioning problems, and activity problems should also be taken into consideration when choosing that wheelchair cushion. Two major developers of wheelchair cushions include the ROHO group, who manufacture the ROHO cushions, and Sunrise Medical, manufacturers of the Jay cushions. Please note that many of these considerations should be discussed with the client's physician, and any other issues, such as Medicaid or insurance covering the wheelchair cushion, should be discussed.
What would anyone need wheelchair cushions for?
When we sit, blood flow is restricted. This is an even bigger issue with clients who have spinal cord injuries, blood flow is further limited by decrease in cushioning muscle. Another risk is pressure sores that result from sliding around and creating shear. Cushion developers, such as Jay and ROHO cushions, have spent many years researching and testing to create the perfect wheelchair cushion to reduce and eliminate these risks. ROHO group developed a technology called DRY FLOATATION® in their ROHO cushions, which acts as water in a dry environment. Jay cushions employ a similar technology called Jay Flow®. Each, in their own way, support the client to reduce these risks. Postural stability is another important issue when it comes to wheelchair cushions. Many cushions can be custom adjusted to support a client's spine correctly and prevent further damage.
The advancing technology wheelchair cushions can offer to us.
Wheelchair cushions use many different methods and materials to help support the client. Among these, foam cushions are the least expensive. Foam is easy to cut, and can be custom-shaped for the client's needs. Foam wheelchair cushions, however, do wear out easily, and can compress allowing pressure sores to occur. Be sure to replace them when the time is right. Gel wheelchair cushions, which are developed by companies such as Jay cushions, are specially engineered gel-filled pockets that conform to the shape of the user, providing comfort and accurate pressure distribution. Jay cushions has helped to make these usually heavy wheelchair cushions lightweight for easier portability and mobility. Air or dry flotation cushions, such as those developed by ROHO cushions, employ a series of interconnected air-filled balloons that evenly distribute pressure among the surrounding balloons, providing comfort and protection. Many of the ROHO cushions allow you to inflate or deflate balloons to customize to the client's needs.
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