Picking the Perfect Wheelchair Cushion Gone are the days of a "one-size-fits-all" mentality when it comes to wheelchair cushions. Today, there's a cushion to meet every need. Whatever the fabrication, the four primary goals of wheelchair cushions are to improve comfort, aid posture, absorb shock and reduce pressure on tissues.1 Ideally, wheelchair cushions should be purchased at the same time as wheelchairs because the two components work together as a system. When this isn't done, less-than-ideal performance can occur. When selecting a wheelchair cushion, keep the following factors in mind to help you evaluate a cushion's clinical appropriateness1: Distribution of stresses on soft tissues How much stability the cushion provides Whether the cushion allows moisture to accumulate Heat accumulation and loss The cushion and cover's frictional properties Durability and need for maintenance Flammability Each type of wheelchair cushion has its own strengths. We've created the following chart to help you select the best cushion for each of your residents.2

		Type		Strengths
		Foam		Inexpensive Lightweight		Multiple densities Even support
		Gel		Excellent pressure redistribution		Very comfortable
		Gel/foam hybrid		Combines the benefits of foam and gel cushioins
		Air flotation (inflated cells)		Lightweight Even pressure redistribution Will not bottom out if inflated properly Waterproof		Can be modified to relieve pressure sores Can be inflated to resident's specific needs

The following specialty cushions are also available: Lap positioners provide upper torso support and can help assist with upper-body alignment. They also serve as a gentle reminder to residents to stay seated. Abductor (pommel) cushions hold the legs slightly apart to help keep a resident’s hips and knees properly aligned and reduce forward sliding. They can also be used to help prevent hip dislocation following surgery. Wedge cushions offer improved posture and slide control. ProMed stocks a complete collection of wheelchair cushions and positioners. To learn more, click on the link above or give us a call at 800.648.5190. Reference 1 Ferguson-Pell M. Seat Cushion Selection. JRRD Clinical Supplement No. 2: Choosing a Wheelchair System. Available at: http://www.rehab.research.va.gov/mono/wheelchair/ferguson-pell.pdf. Accessed August 7, 2013. 2 Karp G. Choosing a Wheelchair: A Guide for Optimal Independence. O’Reilly Media; 1998.

Labor Day Closure Notice Professional Medical will be closed on Monday, September 2 in honor of Labor Day. All Monday deliveries will be made on Tuesday, September 3. Customers who typically order on Monday for Tuesday delivery will need to place their orders by Friday, August 30. Please contact our Customer Care department at 800.648.5190 if you have any questions or concerns.

Our Embrace gel wheelchair cushion distributes weight effectively and reduces pressure for individuals who need additional support. A low-shear, antimicrobial fabric cover surrounds layers of dense foam and a chambered gel insert to provide lasting ergonomic support. Additional features: High-density foam base Chambered gel insert Low-shear, antimicrobial, fire-resistant fabric Slip-resistant bottom and Velcro straps Fluid- and mildew-resistant

Don't forget to enter code CUSHB5G1 when you purchase five or more qualifying wheelchair cushions or lap positioners to receive one for free! Product pricing is only visible to registered promedsupply.com customers. If you are not yet registered, give us a call at (800) 648-5190 and our Customer Care Professionals will be happy to get you set up.