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Wheelchairs Cushions Mobility Accessories
You or a loved one may need a wheelchair at some point in your life. There are different manual wheelchair models in various sizes, with various levels of comfort.
As you delve into the world of wheelchairs, you'll quickly find that there are many varieties of chairs, each built for a different purpose. For example:
Transport wheelchairs can only be pushed by an assistant.
Reclining wheelchairs increase user comfort and help to avoid pressure sores.
Standing wheelchairs provide an entirely different positioning.
You may find that you have very specific preferences for what you want in your wheelchair, and that's okay—many chairs feature certain customizable options. For example, you may find different styles of foot pads and leg supports available, and many of them swing away for easy access to the chair. Some supports are removable so that you can decide what support you want and need, and many chairs offer various wheel positions for improved handling and ease of use.
Choosing the Right Wheelchair Options for You
We provide a wide selection of wheelchairs to choose from to fit your individual needs. Here’s a closer look at our most popular varieties.
Types of Manual Wheelchairs
Self-propelled manual wheelchairs are either pushed by a caregiver or maneuvered with the individual’s own upper body strength. The user will use his hands on the wheels to move and steer. These are commonly seen as regular wheelchairs, as they are rather basic in comparison to powered wheelchairs. The following are some of the types of self-propelled wheelchairs available:
Folding: While most manual wheelchairs fold for easy transport and storage, some can be more compact than others. Folding manual wheelchairs are easier to manage since they feature lightweight construction, and are sized in a way that makes folding an easy process.
Lightweight: Lightweight wheelchairs offer users the ability to maneuver with less effort. Users and caregivers are able to fold them quickly and easily for storage and transport. Take note that lightweight frames may not be suitable for bariatric use. One should ascertain before use whether or not the wheelchair can accommodate the required weight.
Bariatric: Bariatric manual wheelchairs often have a more durable frame, as well as a wider seat width to accommodate bariatric patients. These chairs may weigh more due to the extra-heavy construction material which is needed for durability.
Shower Wheelchairs: Shower wheelchairs make hygiene maintenance easier for those with mobility issues due to injuries, aging, or medical conditions. These waterproof chairs can be positioned in the shower so the user can shower while sitting.
Reclining Wheelchairs: As the name implies, reclining wheelchairs can be reclined to provide additional comfort. It’s common for these chairs to be capable of reaching a nearly full recline, and most feature leg support and footrests.
Wheelchair Accessories
In addition to choosing the right wheelchair, it’s worth taking the time to review common chair accessories to help you customize your experience. One of the most frequently purchased accessories is a wheelchair cushion.
Why Wheelchair Cushions Are Necessary
Some people don’t mind not having a cushion during short transport or just short-term daily use. But such prolonged use can lead to many discomfort and pressure-related problems if a user is confined to the wheelchair frequently throughout the day or in it for long-term use. Whether the patient uses a power wheelchair or transport chair, a cushion can greatly help users be not only more comfortable but also safer and healthier.
More than Just Comfort
Wheelchair cushions provide extra padding that keeps the user happy and comfortable, but there are many more practical uses for different types. Medical seating cushions are made to enhance certain things that elderly or handicapped people can’t really control as much, from moisture absorption to pressure relief, bedsore relief, and sore prevention. They also offer exceptional positioning stability for improved posture. Therefore, it’s important to choose the medical cushion that a person actually needs. Here are some wheelchair cushion types that are on the market:
Air Cushions
Air cushions are one of the more advanced medical cushions. They are very adaptable and offer alternating pressure, or even just standardized adjustable pressure to target areas while allowing pressure points to get the most relief. Air cushions can be costlier, but part of the reason for this is that their niche is specialized.
Back Cushions
Back cushions are specially shaped cushions that provide spinal and posture relief or correction. If the head, neck, and lower back aren't properly positioned, sitting for extended periods can create discomfort, pain, and even injury. For those with spinal issues, a back cushion for your wheelchair may provide the best support
Coccyx Cushions
Coccyx Cushions are designed to support the tailbone area while alleviating pressure on the spine and buttocks. These wheelchairs cushions are perfect for those suffering from lower back pain or sciatica and can be used in wheelchairs, office chairs, and cars.
Pommel Cushions
Pommel cushions provide support through a bumper at the anterior portion of the wheelchairs cushion. This sciatica cushion for a chair provides proper hip positioning by keeping your knees separate. Its wedge design helps prevent the patient from sliding forward and improves posture. This wheelchairs cushion helps reduce pressure on the tailbone, lower back, and surrounding tissue.
Wedge Cushions
Wedge cushions are designed to provide an inclined surface for the seat of your wheelchair, allowing a more comfortable sitting posture. The angled incline supports the lower back, which helps reduce pressure on the tailbone and sciatica nerve.
Bariatric Cushions
Bariatric wheelchair cushions provide extra support and comfort for larger individuals with up to a 600-pound weight capacity. These wheelchair cushions are specifically designed with high-density foam or gel, allowing users to sit in a wheelchair for longer without experiencing discomfort.
Inflatable Cushions
Inflatable wheelchairs cushions are designed to treat and prevent soft tissue or skin breakdown, as well as pressure ulcers, pressure sores, deep tissue issues, and surgery or other wounds. Inflate the sides to different levels, or change the front and back angles to conform to the needs of each patient. The air moves with the body, and it can be adjusted to match the body shape of each patient or their personal skin condition needs.
Regular Cushions
Regular wheelchairs cushions are ideal for those looking for a more simple wheelchairs cushion that provides basic support and comfort. These wheelchairs cushions provide a good amount of padding and can be easily adjusted to fit wheelchairs of various sizes. They have various height profiles, 2", 3", and 4".
Read our blog 7 Types of Wheelchair Cushions to learn more.
Whether you're choosing a wheelchair, walker, or you just need a wheelchair cushion you can find the products that fit your needs at ProHeal Products. We carry the best supplies from the best brands such as Medacure, Pride Mobility, and ProHeal.
Need more help finding what you need, check out our Product Finder
Frequently Asked Questions
Many users have a lot of questions regarding Hospital Beds & Mattresses for the home.
Do I Need a Wheelchair Cushion?
Wheelchair cushions provide extra padding that keeps the user happy and comfortable.
Should I Get a Wheelchair Alarms for Dementia Patients?
Using a chair sensor pad or all-in-one alarm can keep your patient or loved one safe from falling or walking away.
How Fast do you Ship?
We pride ourselves on our fast shipping times. Any product over $50 can be expected to deliver within 3-5 Business days FREE, and some even deliver within 2 days!