Electric wheelchairs increase mobility and help people who need it. But, there are things to consider when it comes to using an electric wheelchair carefully. It is important to sit straight and in a good posture in an electric wheelchair. A good posture reduces unwanted stress on the body and maintains your comfort. It can also increase the maneuverability of the wheelchair and reduce the risks of injury.
The proper posture requires that each part of your body is in the right position. It is a must for your body from head to toe. Each part of your body affects another part. Thus, it is important to ensure that you sit well in your wheelchair. So, you can maintain a good posture for each part of your body.
You may be wondering the right ways to maintain a good posture. In an electric wheelchair, this is especially important. To learn more about acquiring a good posture in an electric wheelchair, you can read our blog. Here, we have gathered three tips for a better posture.
Stabilize the Position of Your Hip Bone
Your hip bone is the foundation of a good posture. Make sure that your wheelchair seat supports and strengthens your hip bone. Check the seat size. The right depth will allow you to sit back up. This way, your weight will spread evenly along your hips, too. The correct width prevents your hip bone from sliding or bending to one side. This is important as it can change the position of your spine. The seat angle can sometimes be adjusted. You can reduce the risk of sliding forward in this way. You should provide more support if the seating balance is poor.
Always make sure that you are using the right wheelchair pillow. Also, check that it is in good condition. This is important because an incorrect pillow can undo the posture support of a good seat.
Fix the ‘S’ Shape in Your Spine
Our spines have 3 natural curves that provide the most balanced position for your back. Sometimes these curves are not properly supported. This can cause abnormal positions, discomfort, and possible long-term damage.
You should stand up straight and bring your shoulders back. Also make sure that you are not leaning on one side. If you cannot maintain this position, the back of the electric wheelchair may not provide adequate posture.
Make sure that the height and width of the back are correct, as it supports the lower curve of your back. Back tension and back angle may also need to be adjusted to provide posture support. For those who have difficulty even in a well-measured chair, an additional back support system may still be required to properly align your spine.
Support Your Feet
Your feet support some of your weight and provide additional support for your hip bone. Insufficient foot support can take your body out of the wanted posture. You should check if the height and position of the footrest are correct. The elevation should place your hips and knees at right angles and ensure that your weight is evenly distributed. If your feet are too far forward, this will tilt your hip bone and cause pressure or damage risk of bending. If they are stuck too far back, this will push your hip bone in the other direction and change the normal curves of your back.
