Hiya

I'm an old timer and have never had this done before so I would really appreciate some tips. I'd like to know what they do, how I can check they are doing it correctly, and also what sort of results I should expect. Should I take my electric as well as manual everyday chair? What benefit have you found it gives?

I'm not having it done at a spinal unit but at my local wheelchair service people - of whom my past experience has been very poor - mainly because of the low value voucher they were willing to give against the chair they recommended.

I've been waiting for this appointment for 6 months, but wasn't too stressed as it was due in December, and they called late last week to re arrange it for tomorrow.

Many thanks in advance for any feedback.

I xx

Hey Izzi!

First off, let me say I'm very glad to hear your having this important yet simple procedure done. What they do is place a device which is plugged into a computer under you posterior. A grid will appear that shows your pressure zones. They will have you move in different positions to gauge the amount of pressure your body is placing on the seat. This information will be used to ensure you have the correct amount of cushion in the right places. Furthermore, you will know what type of pressure release(s) you should be doing. In my case I was placing the majority of my pressure on my backside. I learned bending forward for a minute every fifteen or so was pertinent to my body. It's been eight years since I've been in a chair and I've never had skin problems. I attribute this solely to the information gained from pressure mapping.

I wish you the best of luck!

Make sure that when you are placed on the mapper that you are in the exact position you want to sit. Just tell them what you want don't be shy...........

Thanks for you feedback!

Amazingly they called this morning and cancelled on me - giving me my usual level of confidence with them. Its booked for a fortnights time.

In 26 years I've not had any real skin/pressure issues on my bum, I've always sat on a high profile roho, so was really intrigued to see what the pressure mapping would tell me when they suggested it.

I'll keep you posted!

I xx

Hi Izzy

My husband also uses a high profile roho. About 4 years ago our local wheelchair services wanted him to use another type of cushion, some kind of air filled pocket type ,I can't remember the name of it . Anyway we resisted as he has never had any problems while using the roho. So we got the spinal unit involved and he had the seat mapping done which was sent to the w/c services in support of him keeping his roho.

He had to sit normaly and then lean forward, side to side..as much as he could. They print it out and it is interesting to see where you are most vulnerable.

If your w/c services are any thing like ours they don't inspire confidence .. just hang onto that roho girl..(IMO!!)

L