If you are just beginning to use a powerchair, it can take a while to get used to maintaining proper posture.
Having the correct posture is important, both for your comfort and health.
Proper powerchair posture helps reduce muscle and joint pain, prevents pressure sores, and enables you to be more independent with the chair by helping you to control it.
It also assists with circulatory function, and enhances your stability while moving around in your powerchair.
Read on as we explore the primary components behind the correct posture for powerchairs.
Powerchair Seating Position
Push your hips to the very back of your chair and keep around 1-2 inches between the front edge of your seat and the back of your knees.
The width of the seat should allow your hips to fit snugly, while offering some room for you to shift around.
To make yourself more comfortable and to prevent sores, consider using pressure-relief cushions. They can be particularly beneficial when you are sitting in a powerchair for a long period of time.
Positioning of Pelvis
The positioning of your pelvis in a powerchair is essential; it essentially serves as the foundation for the rest of your posture and helps keep your spine healthy.
Avoid sliding forwards or tilting back by keeping your pelvis level and slightly forward.
You can use positioning belts for increased stability.
Adjusting the Backrest of Powerchair
The backrest helps keep the spine aligned and also eradicates pressure on your back. For shoulder support, some users may need higher backrests.
Reclining the chair can help with comfort and the alleviation of back pressure further. Just a slight recline of 105° should suffice. It’s important not to slump after reclining.
Lumbar supports can help retain the spine’s natural curve.
Headrests Help Neck Positioning
Keep your head in line with your spine, rather than leaning sideways or forward. This makes it more comfortable to sit in the powerchair for long periods and leads to better breathing and circulation.
Using a headrest helps users keep a neutral neck position, which is ideal for those with reduced neck control.
Feet Should be Flat
Your feet should lie flat on the footplates to ensure comfort, stability, and proper posture.
The optimal position for knees is just below or level with your hips, at an approximate 95° angle.
Pressure under heels and thighs can be relieved through the adjustment of the height and angle of the footrest.
Arm & Hand Positioning
While sitting in a powerchair, your elbows should be resting comfortably at your sides; using a joystick or controls will help your forearms remain supported.
Relax your shoulders to avoid straining and muscle fatigue. This can also help you control your powerchair more effectively.
Don’t Stay Rigid for too Long
Taking breaks and slightly moving your seating position helps prevent pressure sores and stiffness.
Breaks will also help you focus throughout the day by reducing feelings of fatigue.
Around every half an hour, try to shift your position slightly to keep your muscles more flexible. If applicable, consider recline functions in order to relieve pressure.
Final Thoughts
We fully understand that the early stages of powerchair use can be difficult to get used to. However, they are a very effective mobility vehicle that offer ease of movement and enhanced speed and agility.
Understanding and retaining a good posture will make the transition easier and more comfortable.
Here at Thistle Help Irvine, we take great pride in offering tailored mobility solutions, and have a range of powerchairs available to help provide you with the best option for your needs.
Recent Comments