13 December 2023
Written by Hannah Ownsworth
Sitting in a wheelchair for long periods of time can potentially cause some discomfort in your back and legs if your posture isn’t quite right. If you live with mobility issues and rely heavily on a wheelchair to get around your house and outdoors, you’ll likely benefit from Complete Care Shop’s guide on the importance of wheelchair posture. Continue reading to find out more about adjusting your posture in a wheelchair.
Having good wheelchair posture is incredibly important for individuals who rely on wheelchairs as a mobility aid. Proper posture contributes to enhanced physical comfort but it also has a significant impact on a person’s health. Poor posture leads to pain, aches and other issues, so here are a variety of reasons why having good wheelchair posture is important:
Having a good posture while sitting in a wheelchair helps to prevent overall discomfort and pain. Good posture also allows for even weight distribution and reduces the risk of developing ulcers and sores, which can be quite serious for wheelchair users.
Good wheelchair posture helps to maintain muscle tone and function, with poor posture leading to muscle imbalance and weakness.
Having good posture while sitting in your wheelchair also ensures that blood circulates effectively throughout the body. This reduces the risk of developing blood clots and other circulatory problems further down the line.
The respiratory system can also be affected by poor posture in a wheelchair. Slouching will compromise your breathing. If you sit properly, it allows for the proper expansion of your chest and lungs.
Maintaining an upright wheelchair posture can also help with digestion by allowing internal organs to function without being compressed. This helps to prevent issues like acid reflux and constipation. If you’ve found that you’re struggling with health issues like this and you slouch in your wheelchair, consider adjusting your posture.
Sitting properly in your wheelchair can also aid with your mental well-being. Some people with mobility limitations struggle with poor mental health because of the situation they’re in. If they then feel pain and discomfort while using the wheelchair because of poor posture, it can only worsen their mental well-being.
To achieve and maintain good wheelchair posture, it’s essential to have an appropriately fitted wheelchair, along with regular adjustments, if needed. Occupational therapists can play a crucial role in helping people establish a healthy posture in their wheelchairs.
Adjusting posture correctly in a power chair is essential for a person’s comfort, health, and overall well-being. Here are some steps you can take to achieve good wheelchair posture:
Did you know that you can get a free home wheelchair assessment from Complete Care Shop? If you are in need of a wheelchair or wheelchair accessories and you’re not sure what you need, or you need assistance with choosing the right living aids for your home, this service is ideal for you.
If you require any more assistance, contact us now for help and advice.
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