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

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Aging wheelchair users are at high risk for pressure injuries.
• Existing cushioning methods have limitations in off-loading bony prominences.
• Foam cut out cushions offer a historically proven, yet underutilized, solution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the efficacy of foam cut out cushions for pressure injury prevention.
• To raise awareness of this technique for aging wheelchair users.
• To present customized solutions for patients with specific deformities.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical application of foam cut out cushions.
• Presentation of customized fitting techniques for individual patient needs.
• Analysis of clinical outcomes including pelvic stability, posture, and off-loading.

Main Results:

• Foam cut out cushions demonstrate effectiveness in off-loading bony prominences.
• Successful outcomes include improved pelvic stability and posture.
• Case examples illustrate the technique's value in preventing pressure injuries.

Conclusions:

• Foam cut out cushions are a valuable, customizable option for pressure injury prevention.
• Skilled clinical application is crucial for effective fitting and outcomes.
• This technique should be considered alongside other preventive measures for wheelchair users.