Introduction

How far an individual is able to reach on their wheelchair cushion influences their everyday life significantly. Research shows us that “one inch (2,54cm) increase in reach is considered a meaningful change” [Pedersen, 2020]. That is why a reach study was performed to test the performance of cushions on facilitating downward, horizontal and upward reach.

Method

The data in this study are from participants with a physical disability. Participants were asked to perform a reach test. The Vicair Adjuster O2 and Vicair Vector O2 are compared to competing skin protection cushions. The group of competing cushions contain the following cushion categories: interconnected air cells, compartmented interconnected air cells and foam and gel hybrids. The charts depict the increase in reach compared to a thin foam cushion that was used as baseline.

 

 

 

 

Method

The data in this study are from participants with a physical disability. Participants were asked to perform a reach test. The Vicair Adjuster O2 and Vicair Vector O2 are compared to competing skin protection cushions. The group of competing cushions contain the following cushion categories: interconnected air cells, compartmented interconnected air cells and foam and gel hybrids. The charts depict the increase in reach compared to a thin foam cushion that was used as baseline.

 

Results

The results show a significant difference for downward, horizontal and upward reach when comparing the Vicair wheelchair cushions to all other tested cushions. Most significant is the difference in reach facilitated by Vicair’s Vector O2 compared to other competing Air cushions.

Conclusion

Can you imagine that the cushion in your wheelchair can make the difference between being able to reach that cupboard or not?

The Vicair wheelchair cushions give the largest increase in reach in this test. More than twice as much as what is considered a meaningful change in the horizontal direction on the Vicair Vector O2.

For further inquiries and complete test and data please contact Vicair’s Research and Development department.

 

 

References

Presperin Pedersen, J., Smith, C., Dahlin, M., Henry, M., Jones, J., McKenzie, K., Sevigny, M., & Yingling, L. (2020). Wheelchair backs that support the spinal curves: Assessing postural and functional changes. Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1080/10790268.2020.1760530

Vreede, N. (2018). reach out for stability. (Master Dissertation, The Hague University of applied Sciences). Available upon request.