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  • Title: The effect of shaped wheelchair cushion and lumbar supports on under-seat pressure, comfort, and pelvic rotation.
    Author: Samuelsson K, Björk M, Erdugan AM, Hansson AK, Rustner B.
    Journal: Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol; 2009 Sep; 4(5):329-36. PubMed ID: 19565380.
    Abstract:
    AIM: A wheelchair seat and position help clients perform daily activities. The comfort of the wheelchair can encourage clients to participate in daily activities and can help prevent future complications. PURPOSE: This study evaluates how a shaped seat-cushion and two different back supports affect under-seat pressure, comfort, and pelvic rotation. METHOD: Thirty healthy subjects were tested using two differently equipped manual wheelchairs. One wheelchair had a Velcro adjustable back seat and a plane seat-cushion. The other wheelchair had a non-adjustable sling-back seat and a plane cushion. The second wheelchair was also equipped with a shaped cushion and/or a detachable lumbar support. Under-seat pressure, estimated comfort, and pelvic rotation were measured after 10 min in each wheelchair outfit. RESULTS: Peak pressure increased with the shaped cushion compared to the plane cushion. No significant difference in estimated comfort was found. Pelvic posterior-rotation was reduced with the adjustable or detachable back-support irrespective of the shape of the seat cushion. CONCLUSIONS: To support a neutral pelvic position and spinal curvature, a combination of a shaped cushion and a marked lumbar support is most effective.
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