Pressure relief cushions are important for those who spend their time sitting in wheelchairs. These long periods of sitting cause compression of skin and tissue between bones and the surface of a chair, resulting in circulation problems. Use of these products can help to keep the skin healthy, reduce shear force and help with stability.

When skin and tissue are compressed between bone and the chair, the blood cannot circulate properly and oxygen and nutrient supply to the cells decreases. Weight bearing bones near the skin surface, like the buttocks, are particularly at risk. This may result in ulcers that can be very serious, leading to hospitalization and surgery. Shear force occurs when the skin and tissue are pulled in different directions, such as when an individual slides down in the chair.

A cushion has to be selected according to individual requirements. A clinical professional is best able to decide on what is most suitable for a particular individual. Factors such as spinal problems and incontinence must be considered as well as how much time is spent in the chair and how much mobility there is.

The size and construction of the wheelchair must be taken into consideration when purchasing a cushion. This will help to determine what depth and size of cushion is required. Once the user is sitting on the cushion, the armrests should be at the correct height.

Different materials such as gel, foam, air and water are used in these products. This is because they are able to conform to the shape of the body, distributing weight and allowing for optimum blood flow. They all have this in common but when it comes to cost, weight, heat conduction and stability there are different advantages and disadvantages.

A foam cushion is one of the least expensive options and it comes in a range of densities and varying degrees of memory. If the foam is cross cut, contoured or convoluted, it allows greater conformity so that the surface moves with the user. As it is relatively inexpensive and easy to cut, a therapist can experiment with shapes without incurring too much expense. On the downside it does wear down more quickly than other materials, losing its shape and becoming compressed.

Air filled cushions are comfortable and widely used. Those with pumps that allow rows of cells filled with air to inflate and deflate, thus alternating the point of pressure, are particularly effective. The main disadvantage is that an air cushion has to be checked regularly to make sure that it is properly inflated.

A gel cushion provides excellent weight distribution as it conforms to the shape of the body. It is very comfortable and it helps keep the surface temperature of the skin cool. A disadvantage is its weight as portability is important for users who frequently have to lift in and out of a wheelchair and a car.

The cost of pressure relief cushions can vary considerably, according to the materials with which they are made, covers, size and depth. It is worthwhile to purchase a product with proven performance over time. This may not be the cheapest option but durability, comfort and effectiveness should take precedence over cost.