When thinking about what you need from your active user wheelchair, seating requirements are going to be high on most people’s list or priorities. As seating is so important, I’m going to break it down into two sections – backrests and cushions/seating bases. This way, I can go into more detail on each, including different setting options. I’ll be starting by looking at active user wheelchair backrest options, in terms of the different hardware options available.
Active User Wheelchair Backrest Options: Adjustable Canvas
Canvas backrests usually come as standard on an active user wheelchair. These consist of a number of velcro straps that can be adjusted to create more or less tension for the user depending on their needs. These straps are covered by canvas. A canvas back rest can be a good option for those who don’t need a lot of back support and for those who’s seating needs change frequently.
When my active user wheelchair was ordered, we went for a canvas back rest. There were two reasons for this decision. Firstly, because I needed my wheelchair to be as lightweight as possible and a canvas backrest is the lightest option. Secondly, because I was in the process of coming off my medication to try for a baby. As we didn’t know how pregnancy would affect my posture or the size of my rib cage, it made sense to opt for a backrest that would be adjustable and still suitable with the potential changes to my body that pregnancy could bring.
Adjustable canvas backrests are available in a significant number of heights, so that each user can get the right backrest height for them. If you’re wanting a canvas back rest, it’s worth checking that the wheelchair you’re considering is able to provide the height you need, as the range of options can vary a little between wheelchair manufacturers. For most people, this won’t make a difference, but for those with exact requirements, the difference of millimeters might be an important factor.
Active User Wheelchair Backrest Options: Rigid, Hard Shell
Rigid, hard shell back rests are a great option for those who require more support from their backrest than an adjustable canvas is able to provide.
The two most common rigid, hard shell backrest brands are Jay (Sunrise Medical) and Matrix (Invacare). Within these brands, there are a number of different hard shell backrest models available, which will give different levels of support. Some have more support around the trunk for additional lateral stability and support. Others have less, but give more movement to the user. The majority of rigid, hard shell backrests can have foam inserts added, to create a custom level of support.
Matrix Elite Deep backrest
One of the great things about having a rigid, hard shell backrest is that there are lots of different positioning options available.
It’s worth knowing that it’s possible to add a modesty panel to a rigid, hard shell backrest, so that you don’t end up feeling like your bottom is hanging out between your seat and backrest.
At present, I have a Matrix Elite backrest on my wheelchair. When it was put on by wheelchair service, it was too high and at the wrong angle – it was completely vertical, which meant that I was sitting further forward in the chair and only benefitting from the support of the backrest up to my waist. If I wanted support higher up, the backrest pushed my hips forward and caused a lot of pain. This was clearly not an ideal set up – nowhere close.
With the rigid, hard shell backrests having so many settings available, I was able to lower my backrest and angle it so that I’m supported up to my shoulder blades AND had room for my hips.
Matrix Elite backrest
I will point out that I asked for this to be done during my backrest fitting appointment, but the wheelchair therapist and technician both looked at me as though I didn’t know what I was talking about. Always trust your instincts and what feels right for you when choosing the specification of your active user wheelchair. If it hurts or doesn’t feel right, say so. If you think you know what needs to be done, say so. I dread to think how many people are stuck with a wheelchair that’s not been set up optimally for the individual because a wheelchair therapist or rep hasn’t been told or hasn’t listened to what the wheelchair user needs.
You may find that you can manage a lower back rest if you have additional lateral and/or lumbar support. No two people, even with the same condition, are the same in their seating needs. So it’s worth trying different options to get an idea of what will suit you best.
Active User Wheelchair Backrest Options: Specialist Backrests
Along with adjustable canvas and rigid, hard shell backrests, there are specialist backrest products like the WheelAir, a cooling backrest cushion that can replace a standard canvas backrest or can be added to a rigid, hard shell backrest.
Matrix Elite backrest
Adding WheelAir to my backrest would be extremely useful for me with my PoTS – particularly in the summer. Now that I’m a Mum, I need to be able to get out and about with Elise regardless of the weather. The cooling nature of the WheelAir could be the difference between me being able to sit in my wheelchair in the middle of summer and having to remain lying down to stop my heart rate from skyrocketing.
Active User Wheelchair Backrest Options: Additional Considerations
It’s worth keeping in mind that, on some active user wheelchairs, the type of backrest will affect your choice of push handles. For example, a Kuschall K-Series has the option to be ordered with the following:
– without push handles
– with short fixed push handles
– with long fixed push handles
– with height adjustable push handles
– with foldable push handles
Matrix Elite backrest
However, if ordering a Kuschall K-Series with a Matrix backrest, it’s only possible to have it without push handles or with height adjustable push handles. You can find out more about this by downloading the Kuschall K-Series Aluminium Order Form from the Invacare website. I’ve used the K-Series as an example, as this is the active user wheelchair that my wheelchair service in Warwickshire are able to prescribe.
If you want a type of push handle that isn’t available for order with a matrix back rest, you might be able to order a canvas backrest and have your Matrix backrest fitted retrospectively. This would be something to have a conversation about with your wheelchair therapist or wheelchair rep. They’ll be able to advise on what’s possible and what isn’t for the make and model of the wheelchair and backrest you want/need.
What are your main considerations for your active user wheelchair backrest?
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