TITLE:
Influence of Wheelchair Cushions Fabricated by Therapists on Stability, Comfort, and Functionality
AUTHORS:
Takeshi Oshikawa, Seigo Koura, Nishikawa Chihoko, Kazuho Nagao, Kentaro Higashi
KEYWORDS:
Wheelchair Sitting, Stability, Cushion, Comfort, Functionality
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Therapy and Rehabilitation,
Vol.8 No.1,
February
28,
2020
ABSTRACT: “Ease of comfort” and “functionality” are important factors that have
been cited to improve wheelchair seating. The ability to maintain balance and
posture while seated in a wheelchair improves stability, comfort, and
functionality and is a prerequisite for daily activities. In this study, the
authors used a sitting position measuring device to scientifically verify
differences in sitting posture, comfort, and functionality depending on the
presence or absence of cushions and the type of cushion in elderly individuals
who used wheelchairs. Results suggested that a cushion fabricated by a
therapist was more useful than a commercially available air cushion. While a
commercially available air cushion was the most suitable, the therapist’s
self-made cushion could be expected to demonstrate the same or better
applicability than an air cushion.