Wheelchair Cushion Selection Guide for 2024

Wheelchair users face many challenges - one of them is the elevated risk of skin problems, including pressure sores. The latest data shows that a vast majority of wheelchair users (85%) suffered from skin problems, with pressure ulcers (54%) being the most commonly reported skin condition.

The most common and perhaps effective way to prevent developing pressure sores is to use the right wheelchair cushion. Choosing the right cushion helps you stay comfortable, manage your health conditions like pressure sores, and maintain the right posture.

In this quick guide, we’ll walk you through different types of wheelchair cushions and what to consider when choosing the right cushion.

4 Types of Wheelchair Cushions

Wheelchair cushions are made from different materials and offer several unique features. When shopping around, focus on four main types to select a cushion quickly and effectively. In the end, your choice will depend on your specific needs.

1. Skin Protection and Positioning Cushions

Also called Combo Cushions, these are designed to provide both skin protection and positioning support. They often use a mix of materials, such as a foam base combined with gel or air inserts, to provide maximum comfort.While the foam base offers stability, the gel or air inserts help redistribute pressure to protect your skin from sores.

These cushions are ideal for those at risk of developing pressure sores because they maintain proper contact skin temperature throughout the seasons. The combination of materials provides customized seating options, keeping your pelvis in a neutral position. That’s how combo cushions can help you maintain comfort and prevent pressure ulcers.

2. Positioning Cushions

As the name suggests, these wheelchair cushions are designed primarily for posture support. They typically feature a high-density molded foam base and a closed-cell posterior support section that keeps your pelvis stable and neutral. The soft foam topper provides you with exceptional comfort throughout the day.

You should invest in this cushion if you need to maintain proper posture during long periods of sitting. These wheelchair cushions can also help correct postural discrepancies before they surface. As they prevent undue stress, these cushions protect you from adopting a position that might strain your spine and hips, leading to chronic pain.

3. Skin Protection Cushions

These cushions provide comfortable seating solutions for those with sensitive skin. Typically, they are made from a mix of materials, including foam, gel, fluid, and air inserts, which protect you from skin abrasions, skin breakdown, and discomfort.

Each wheelchair cushion material has its unique benefits:

• Foam: Provides comfort and support but does little to redistribute pressure and protect your skin.
• Gel: Helps redistribute body pressure evenly and offers exceptional comfort to those with sensitive skin.
• Fluid: Allows better immersion, reducing pressure on specific points and chances of developing pressure sores.
• Air: Offers dynamic pressure relief by adjusting to your movements, reducing the risk of skin breakdown. 

Besides comfortable seating solutions, these cushions also provide better airflow and temperature regulation, which helps keep your skin healthy.

4. General Use Cushions

Although not as specialized as other wheelchair cushions, these offer basic comfort. They are made from foam and offer mild contouring and cutouts for coccygeal and sacral relief. This design helps prevent discomfort when using your wheelchair. However, they aren’t the right choice if you are at high risk of pressure sores or require postural support.

8 Things You Should Consider When Selecting a Wheelchair Cushion

When choosing the right cushion, you have to think about more than just comfort You must also remember that there’s no perfect cushion, just the one that meets your needs. So, when you are looking for cushions, keep the following things in mind:

1. Posture Support

First things first, ensure the cushion provides the necessary wheelchair seat support to maintain proper posture. If you struggle with maintaining an upright position, you may want to invest in a positioning cushion. You might need custom support if you suffer from muscle atrophy.

2. Skin Condition

Next, you should think about your skin condition. If you are prone to pressure sores, you will need gel or air-filled wheelchair cushions to keep your skin from breaking down. But you might want to buy a combo cushion if you have sensitive skin and require postural support.

3. Height

Height matters when choosing the right cushion. Be sure the cushion allows you to sit comfortably in your wheelchair with your feet resting flat on the footrest. This posture should not cause your knee to bend too high or too low. The cushion should also let you move in and out of the wheelchair without stress.

4. Weight

Consider your weight when buying a new wheelchair cushion. The cushion should be able to support your weight without losing its shape or effectiveness. Some cushions are designed to support higher weights and provide more durability. Check with the supplier to make sure the specifications match your requirements.

5. Comfort

Comfort is another factor you will need to think about, especially if you spend most of your day in your wheelchair. You will want to use a cushion that provides corrective support if you suffer from spinal cord injury or muscle weakness.

6. Transfers

If you frequently transfer in and out of your wheelchair, consider how easy it is to slide on and off the cushion. Some cushions are designed with smooth surfaces, which helps you get in and out of your wheelchair without damaging your skin.

7. Maintenance

You will need to clean and dry your wheelchair cushion. We recommend cushions with removable, washable covers as they are easy to maintain.

8. Price

Finally, you’ll have to think about your budget. Wheelchair cushions with a mix of materials, especially combo cushions, can be expensive. However, they do offer more comfort and posture support. Investing in these cushions today can save you from potential health issues down the line.

Conclusion

Choosing the right cushion is necessary for comfort, health, and overall well-being. It helps you sit comfortably in your wheelchair while reducing the risk of pressure sores. But think about your specific requirements when making a choice. The cushion should support your weight, height, posture, and skin condition. It should also be easy to clean.

Build My Wheelchair is the best place to look for a wheelchair cushion. We offer a wide range of mobility aids, including wheelchairs, accessories, and cushions.