OFF-LOADING PRESSURE RELIEF WITH FOAM CUT OUT CUSHIONS: EXPERIENCES FROM RANCHO LOS AMIGOS NATIONAL REHABILITATION CENTER

This paper investigates the effectiveness of using foam cut out cushions to relieve pressure on bony areas while sitting, especially for elderly wheelchair users who are prone to developing pressure injuries. This study delves into the historical background of foam cut out cushions and emphasizes their relevance in addressing the needs of modern patients. The findings underscore the importance of adopting the cushion fitting technique to reduce pressure-related health risks, making it a valuable approach for enhancing the comfort and well-being of aging wheelchair users.

• 1
  Foam cut out cushions (FCCs) are effective in preventing pressure injuries, particularly for users with tissue atrophy in the pelvic region, as they completely alleviate pressure from high-risk areas.
• 2
  Customization options offered by FCCs address other prominences (such as the pubic ramus, trochanter, and posterior femur) and asymmetries (such as the development of heterotrophic ossifications, scoliosis, and pelvic obliquities) that affect positioning and seating.
• 3
  Recent research confirms FCCs’ benefits and applicability through pressure mapping and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques.