Wheelchair Accessories for Better Posture

Bad posture is a huge cause of back pain, especially among those who aren’t able to move their bodies much. Those who are wheelchair bound have to be particularly aware of posture, but it can be so easy to slump over or slide forward in a wheelchair. Because of this, there have been some wheelchair accessories introduced onto the market specifically to help with wheelchair posture. Many of these products can alleviate back pain on the part of wheelchair patients.

Wheelchair belts are about the most basic accessories that have a surprising effect on posture. Many people choose to use wheelchair belts because they can keep the user firmly in place on the seat of the wheelchair and prevent sliding forward. This, though, has a good effect on posture. When the lower half of the body is securely in the chair, the lower back won’t curve out as much with forward movement. There are lots of different types of wheelchair belts, and many are easy for wheelchair bound patients to use on their own.

There are actually wheelchair accessories out there specifically for postural support, as well. These accessories include shoulder supports that prevent slouching and forward leaning. These padded supports attach to the back of the wheelchair and slide over the patient’s shoulders like a backpack. The supports are then adjustable to fit different patients and to be comfortable throughout the day. They can simply remind patients to sit with their shoulders back, but they can also be helpful for patients who don’t have the strength they need to sit up very straight all day long.

The other option for postural support for wheelchairs is lap products. These products sit in a patient’s lap and keep forward motion from becoming a problem. One foam product sits between the patient and the outer arms of the wheelchair. It keeps the patient from leaning forward, and it also reminds the patient to ask for help when she needs to get out of the wheelchair. Other products simply help elevate the arms and make sitting in a wheelchair more comfortable.

Foot rests are also great for wheelchair posture. If your feet aren’t at the right angle, your back won’t be, either. Some great wheelchair accessories include great foam footrests, which can elevate the feet slightly as well as make them more comfortable on soft footing.