Biomechanics of seating for the spinal injury patient

Pressures under the ischial tuberosities have been measured using a specially adapted seat in which the footrest length and backrest position can be adjusted so as to allow spinal injury patients to sit in a position identical to sitting in a wheelchair. The information on the area and values of underseat pressures are used in monitoring the effect of surgery, as a feedback device to obtain the optimum posture whilst sitting in a wheelchair and the design of wheelchair cushions to relieve pressures under the ischial tuberosities.