Development of low-cost wheelchair cushion for pressure sore prevention

Abstract

This study describes the current research in the development and evaluation of low cost cushion for pressure sore prevention with other foam cushions. At each stage, the participants' trials were carried out and evaluated the performance of a low cost cushion (C-01). The C-01 is made from re-bond foam and polyurethane foam. Its durability and pressure-relieving characteristics were compared with the foam cushions. A sample of 10 paraplegic persons tested with the three cushions to evaluate the capacity of the cushions to distribute pressure. The modification from C-01 to C-02 was tested with the 30 paraplegic persons by comparing with the three cushions. The results show that the C-02 cushion provided significantly better pressure distribution than the foam cushion. © 2010 START Centre. All rights reserved. © 2010 START Centre.