More than anyone, wheelchair users understand the importance of a comfortable and supportive seat cushion. A study in the Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development found that full time wheelchair users spent an average of 10.6 hours (plus/minus 3 hours) in their wheelchair per day (Sonenblum et al., 2016). For a seating surface of such high importance, how do you ensure that you’ve picked the right one? Enter wheelchair cushion pressure mapping—a transformative tool that takes the guesswork out of the equation. In this post, we’ll delve into five compelling reasons to get pressure mapped on your wheelchair seat cushion.
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1. Shield Yourself From Pressure Sores
Without a doubt, the top reason to pressure map is pressure sore prevention. Pressure sores are a common concern for wheelchair users, and the most critical prevention tool lies in selecting the right cushion. Pressure mapping acts as a preventative shield, identifying high-risk areas before they become a problem. During the process, you’ll sit on a pressure sensor mat placed over your cushion while the live image displays on a screen. Your partnering clinician will point out where the highest pressure points are and how significant they may be. Pressure points are usually on the tailbone or sit bones. By selecting the most appropriate cushion based on this data, you can ensure that your skin stays healthy.
Pressure mapping image. The two blue dots within the black rectangle represent someone’s right and left sit bones2. Discover the Most Effective Pressure Relief Techniques for Your Body
No two bodies are alike, so effective pressure relief techniques can vary. Pressure mapping reveals your body’s unique pressure points, allowing you to compare various pressure relief techniques while using the live image as biofeedback. Think leaning forward strategically or using specific positioning tools like repositioning assist bars or power seat functions. These insights can make a huge difference in your comfort and well-being. Armed with this information, you can tailor your pressure relief techniques and routines, promoting improved comfort and healthy tissues.
Power wheelchair users with power seating functions can trial various types of pressure relief while being pressure mapped to determine the most effective techniques.3. Determine if Your Wheelchair Parts Need to Be Adjusted
Think of pressure mapping as a pit stop for your wheelchair, ensuring all components are perfectly aligned to your body for maximum support. Pressure mapping can indicate if any adjustments are needed to your footrests, backrest, or other parts. Adjusting these parts will affect pressure distribution on the seat cushion, either negatively or positively depending on how they’re repositioned.
A highly configured power wheelchair and seat cushion
Highly configured wheelchair seat cushion4. Perfect Your Posture With Pressure Mapping
Good posture habits are essential for overall well-being, and your wheelchair cushion plays a vital role in achieving this. Pressure mapping reveals areas of uneven pressure that may reflect posture. By addressing these areas, you can enhance your alignment at the spine and pelvis to improve your comfort and reduce the risk of future issues.
Contoured wheelchair backrest and cushion for postural support5. Informed Skin Checks
Regular skin checks are vital for wheelchair users to detect potential issues early on. Pressure mapping pinpoints areas of your body that are most susceptible to skin breakdown. Armed with this knowledge, you can focus your skin checks on these specific areas, allowing for proactive measures to prevent complications.
Redness over a person’s right ischial tuberosity (sit bone) caused by too much seated pressureHow To Get Pressure Mapped In Your Wheelchair
Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Provider
There are two main pathways for wheelchair users to get pressure mapped. One is to contact your local Durable Medical Equipment (DME) provider. Before you book an appointment, ensure that they have a pressure mapping system and an Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) available to assist you. ATP’s have advanced training in customized seating and positioning systems.
Outpatient Therapy Clinic
The second pathway is to schedule an appointment at an outpatient physical and occupational therapy clinic that offers wheelchair fittings. These clinics are often associated with inpatient rehabilitation centers. You’ll want to schedule your visit with a physical or occupational therapist who is trained in seating and positioning. If the clinic doesn’t have a pressure mapping system on site, they can coordinate with a DME provider to join the appointment. If you’re in need of a new seat cushion or other parts, this pathway assures that a therapist can assist with writing a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) for insurance coverage.
Summary
Pressure mapping your seat cushion is a proactive step towards preventing pressure sores and optimizing your seated comfort. By taking the guesswork out of the equation, you can empower yourself with informed decisions about your wheelchair setup.
Reference
Sonenblum, S. E., Sprigle, S. H., Martin, J. S., & PE (2016). Everyday sitting behavior of full-time wheelchair users. Journal of rehabilitation research and development, 53(5), 585–598. https://doi.org/10.1682/JRRD.2015.07.0130
