Jill
Bad Back - New Chair Advice
#1
Posted 01 October 2007 - 03:49 PM
Jill
#2
Posted 01 October 2007 - 05:59 PM
jorema, on Oct 1 2007, 11:49 AM, said:
Jill
If he gets backaches and leg aches then maybe you should try getting him a new cushion and backrest before getting a new wheelchair. It will be a lot cheaper, he can get it faster, and maybe that will fix the problem. Maybe you should go to a medical supply store, or talk to an OT about what they suggest. A lot of people, including myself use Roho cushions. They are filled with air, and are very comfortable (from what I've been told). If his back is not supported like it should be (if he is slumped etc.) this could be caused by the backrest. Usually you can get backrests and cushions on loan to try out before you buy them. If none of these things work, then you should find out what he needs in a new chair. Good luck.
#3
Posted 01 October 2007 - 10:36 PM
On the little info here I assume he's hemiplegic in which case it's common for that affected side which is no longer supported by its muscles to be uncomfortable. You really need a seating/wheelchair therapist to assess the situation - you'll probably need to try a number of variations before finding what works best. Contact an occupational therapist.
Although I cannot move and I have to speak through a computer, in my mind I am free.
#4
Posted 02 October 2007 - 12:49 PM
nomis, on Oct 1 2007, 11:36 PM, said:
On the little info here I assume he's hemiplegic in which case it's common for that affected side which is no longer supported by its muscles to be uncomfortable. You really need a seating/wheelchair therapist to assess the situation - you'll probably need to try a number of variations before finding what works best. Contact an occupational therapist.
Thanks for your suggestions; and you are right, he does get pain from the paralised limbs. He has seen an OT at the home but due to his inability to communicate as his speech is affected, it is difficult for anyone to understand his needs. I have learnt over the years to ascertain what he is trying to say. He doesn't slump in his chair at all but it is a very basic construction and I don't think it gives him any support at all. He spends many hours in the chair, which is why I would like to get him one with a greater degree of comfort and support - I don't really care what it costs; within reason. He is quite strong in the limbs that arn't affected by the stroke, in fact he often gets into trouble from trying to lift himself out of the chair.
#5
Posted 03 October 2007 - 07:33 AM
Although I cannot move and I have to speak through a computer, in my mind I am free.
#6
Posted 04 October 2007 - 11:50 PM
It's the same for us in manual chairs.
ed
#7
Posted 20 October 2007 - 06:05 AM
jorema, on Oct 1 2007, 11:49 AM, said:
Jill
Jill,
See if you can get him set up in a seating clinic where they have many different wheelchairs there that he can try out. The therapists can work with you and your father to see if they can figure out what makes him comfortable by assessing which muscles are weak and what contoured back supports would give the best support in lumbar and lateral and also in the seating cushion by evaluatin his pelvis to see if he rotates or has anterior tilt or other issues to accomodate for his weaknesses. Let the therapist know before the eval that he is limited in communication and that you want to be able to try out different wheelchairs before the actual eval date so that they are prepared. I hope this is helpful. They also may be able to fit contoured back or seating devices in his current chair. Give it a shot. Be persistent. Let me know how it turns out and if I can be of any further assistance.
Judy

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