Products to help wheelchair users with specific postural issues

Hi everyone, as my last blog was so popular, I've decided to compile another one that highlights how a selection of our products can make life more comfortable if you experience postural issues as a wheelchair user.

Many wheelchair users find that posture can be difficult to maintain, especially with conditions such as kyphosis, hyperlordosis, pelvic obliquity, or scoliosis. The right seating can make a big difference to comfort, safety, and independence. 

Here are some common challenges and the products I have highlighted that I recommend frequently for these conditions. However, it is always best to book a free assessment with us to get the right products for your needs. Contact our friendly team on: 01993 880200 or by clicking here.

Kyphosis

This condition is characterised by the upper back curving forward, making it harder to keep your head upright and look straight ahead. This can cause pain and fatigue. When using a wheelchair, difficulty looking forward can also impact comfort, independence, and safety.

To help ease and slow the development of kyphosis, we can recommend several backrests, such as the Armadillo, part of the NXT range. The Armadillo is a customisable wheelchair backrest designed for individuals with specialist spinal needs. It provides adjustable, modular support to conform to a person's body contours. It features a three-section shell which is adjustable to provide tailored support for healthier postures. The adjustable bottom plate also customises pelvic support for enhanced stability. So, when you add this to all the other features, you'll see why the NXT Armadillo is a proven, effective choice.

Hyperlordosis 

We assist many clients with Hyperlordosis, a condition characterised by an excessive inward curvature of the lumbar spine (lower back), often linked with a pelvis that tilts forward. It can cause discomfort and make it difficult to maintain a stable and comfortable seating position throughout the day, with muscle weakness sometimes contributing to the challenge. Prioritising comfort, adjustability, and even pressure distribution is key. 

I tend to recommend a backrest that is adjustable, such as a Vicair Liberty backrest or a modular Free Form backrest. As a specialist back cushion, the Liberty offers pain relief and gently supports postural or anatomical anomalies. This extremely lightweight addition is easy to transport and can be retained within a folding wheelchair for maximum convenience. For highly individualised support, a modular FreeForm backrest can be configured to match body contours for a tailored fit.

Pelvic obliquity

When a person’s pelvis is tilted to one side, this is known as pelvic obliquity. This can lead to uneven pressure, discomfort, and an increased risk of skin problems like sores.

To help manage pelvic obliquity, we often specify specialist cushions such as the Cloud cushion from Ottobock and the Spex STX from Etac. The NXT backrest range also offers support and stability to complement seating systems for wheelchair users with pelvic asymmetry.

Scoliosis

The final chronic condition I would like to focus on is scoliosis. This is when the spine curves sideways, often forming an “S” or “C” shape. This can cause uneven posture, discomfort, and difficulties with stability. We can provide a range of equipment to help manage scoliosis – a popular choice is the ILSA Wing Backs. 

Wing Backs straighten up wheelchair users and keep them in a healthy seated position. Through adjustments, users can be enabled to maintain an active life and manage daily tasks independently. The Manta is a shoulder-height back support which can relieve pressure and provide support, especially useful for users who need tilt. It has a solid shell with unique built-in lateral trunk supports that are width and height-adjustable to give excellent lateral stability.  

I hope the above product suggestions are of use; however, always bear in mind that postural challenges will vary for everyone. Some people may only require minimal support, whereas others may need complex/advanced solutions. 

For those with complex asymmetrical posture more bespoke options may be more suitable, where the seating system is fully moulded to the client's posture. These systems can support and correct posture to ensure maximum comfort and postural support.

In addition, seating can either be fixed or flexible, depending on the level of postural management required.

Everyone’s posture and needs are different, which means their wheelchair solutions are too. We provide ongoing recommendations from a clinical point of view, either working directly with you (and your therapist if you have one). We understand that postural needs can change over time, so we work with you to ensure you have the optimal equipment for your specific needs.

If you would like to book a free assessment or for further information, please contact our friendly advisors on 01993 880200 or email: info@recare.co.uk