Padding the seat of a wheelchair reduces ischial pressure and improves sitting comfort.

In this study, we aimed to examine whether a wheelchair cushion placed directly atop a sling seat or deflection of the sling seat compensated by a pad along with the placement of a wheelchair cushion changed sitting pressure. Additionally, we examined whether these additions changed sitting comfort. For twenty healthy adults who consented to participate, measurements were taken for three types of cushions, each with and without padding, under six conditions.

Stability of ischial pressure with 3D thermoplastic elastomer cushion and the characteristics of four types of cushions in pressure redistribution.

Wheelchair cushions are recommended to be used with wheelchair and can protect the buttocks from pain and injury by relieving interface pressure for wheelchair users. However, further investigations are required for proper use in response to the development of new types of wheelchair cushions. The objective of this study was to evaluate physical characteristics of wheelchair cushions by comparing pressure redistributing effects of four types of cushions.