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Effect of model design, cushion construction, and interface pressure mats on interface pressure and immersion

Leigh Pipkin, MSPO; Stephen Sprigle, PhD, PT

Figure. Pressure sum ratios across cushion and mats illustrating interaction for rigid and gel buttocks models.

Pressure ulcers remain a serious medical complication for some wheelchair users. One goal of a wheelchair seating evaluation is the selection of a wheelchair cushion that protects skin by reducing and distributing pressure. Interface pressure (IP) mats are a tool used in seating evaluations. This study explored how the presence of an IP mat affects the IP on buttocks models. The results suggest that mat IP values may not be accurate, so clinicians should not rely solely on IP values when prescribing wheelchair cushions.


Volume 45 Number 6, 2008
   Pages 875 — 882

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