Comfort is one of the key aspects to get right when using a wheelchair for everyday use. After all, you rely on it greatly for your independence and freedom, which is why it’s important to ensure that it fully helps you live your life and not get in the way of it instead. Beyond a better user experience, a comfortable wheelchair also prevents unwanted physical ailments from developing and encourages staying active.
With that said, there’s several factors that can cause aches, pains, and stiffness when using a wheelchair for hours on end. The first thing to look into is whether it’s a new or old wheelchair. In the former case, such a slightly unpleasant experience is perfectly normal as users need their body acclimate to their new PMA in Singapore for at least a few weeks. If it’s the latter, however, feeling noticeable and disruptive pain points to either certain components wearing down or changes in your seating configuration. Below, we take a look at the common culprits of wheelchair discomfort and how to fix them.
1. The Cushion
The wheelchair cushion is the first aspect to look into as it arguably has the biggest effect on overall seating comfort. If this part is made of poor-quality materials or has lost most of its cushioning response due to regular use, it will lead to pain that typically manifests as a sharp pain or dull ache on one’s posterior that grows in severity over time. Additionally, it puts the user at a higher risk of developing pressure sores.
For those switching to a new wheelchair, such as when transitioning from manual to motorised, the pain could stem from not being used to the type of cushion on the latter device. Alternatively, it may simply not have the same level of support required for one’s needs. All in all, if the cushion is truly the source of the pain or a tingling sensation caused by a compromised blood circulation, it’s best to seek advice from the original seller and make changes as soon as possible.
2. Lumbar Support
Lower back pain is one of the most prevalent ailments that come from staying seated for long periods without proper lumbar support. Many new wheelchair models now provide this feature, with some even being user adjustable, but they’re rarely included in older units. Thankfully, this can be easily solved by getting an aftermarket lumbar support cushion should your particular wheelchair not come with one out of the box.
For those seeking enhanced lumbar support, Falcon Mobility offers options like the Black Diamond Electric Wheelchair, designed for superior comfort and adjustability, making it an ideal choice for long-term sitting.
3. Backrest Angle
The backrest angle plays a crucial role in promoting proper posture. If the angle is too upright, it can place unnecessary pressure on your spine, resulting in upper back, neck, or shoulder pain. On the other hand, if it leans back too far, it may encourage slouching, which can lead to lower back pain and discomfort over time. Adjustable backrests are available in many wheelchairs, allowing users to modify the angle to suit their comfort.
4. Armrests
While they may not seem as important, armrests can actually cause pain if they’re not tailored to the user’s needs. If they’re set too high, users may experience tension in their shoulders, while low armrests can lead to slouching and poor posture. Additionally, inadequate cushioning can cause sore elbows or forearms. Adjust the height or padding of the armrests until you find a comfortable position. If these adjustments don’t alleviate discomfort, it might be worth considering replacement armrests or pads for improved support.
5. Footrest
The footrest’s position is critical for maintaining proper posture and preventing lower limb discomfort. If your feet dangle or are positioned too high, it can increase pressure on your thighs, cutting off circulation and causing numbness or tingling. Conversely, if the footrest is too low, it may force your hips into an unnatural angle, leading to hip or lower back pain. Adjusting the footrest height to ensure your feet rest flat with a slight bend at the knee can greatly improve comfort. In some cases, adding foot straps or heel loops can help maintain a stable foot position and reduce unnecessary movement.
Conclusion
Addressing discomfort in your wheelchair is essential for maintaining your physical well-being and quality of life. If the discomfort persists even after making the recommended changes above, seek advice from the original seller or a seating specialist to achieve optimal posture support and fully enjoy your mobility and independence once more.
Should you ever need a new wheelchair or want to transition to a different type of personal mobility aid, look no further than Falcon Mobility (rebranding to ELFIGO). We’re one of the leading providers of mobility solutions in Singapore, specialising in the distribution of some of the highest-quality mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs on the market. Beyond our motorised offerings, we also offer more traditional mobility aids like walking aids, canes, rollators, and much more.