Types of Wheelchair Cushions

Anyone with a mobility issue, whether temporary or long term, understands the value and importance of a wheelchair. With so many options, choosing the right wheelchair for you might be a little complicated. You have to consider all sorts of variables from the user\'s body weight and their specific needs to the area in which you will need to use your chair. It is because of these varied and specialized needs that customized wheel chairs have become so common.

You might think that once you have chosen the wheelchair that best suits your needs, your choices are over, but think again. You should assume that you will be spending a great deal of time in your chair, and for that reason alone you can understand the importance of choosing the right wheelchair cushion. Both comfort and medical / health benefits should be taken into consideration.

For adequate support of the spine, it is recommended that your cushion be no more than three fingers thick. There are four distinct types of wheel chair cushions from which to choose, each with their own individual benefits and drawbacks.

Foam Wheelchair Cushions

Foam cushions are probably the most common and popular of the wheelchair cushions, largely because they have been around for quite some time. They offer a good combination of both comfort and support. To choose the best foam cushion, select one that provides a good level of comfort along with support that conforms to your shape.

On the down side, foam cushions tend to wear out rather quickly and will lose their shape with prolonged and extended use. They will need to be replaced often with long term use.

Gel Wheelchair Cushions

Gel cushions consist of a gel pouch attached to the top of a foam base. They are most often used for patients with muscle atrophy issues. While this does add a level of comfort that foam alone cannot provide, it also adds considerable weight to the wheel chair itself. The gel pouch is also susceptible to leaks, and a certain amount of care will be necessary to ensure their safe and effective use.

Air Flotation Wheelchair Cushions

Air flotation cushions provide support by air inflation alone. While they can be quite comfortable, they are not recommended for patients who tend to move around a lot in their chairs, as the support will not be as stable as other types. As with the gel cushions, leaks are also a potential issue.

Urethane Honeycomb Wheelchair Cushions

These cushions feature a distinct bee hive pattern that allows for increased air circulation and better stability while in use. Urethane cushions are also quite light in weight and offer excellent shock absorbing capabilities.

When deciding on the type of wheelchair cushion that is best for you, it is best to first consult your doctor or other medical professional for their input as to which might be best suited to your particular condition. Comfort is important, considering you will probably be using the chair for some period of time, but it is imperative that you consider stability and spine support as well. Otherwise you might exacerbate a condition without even knowing it.