Recovery plays a major role in rehabilitation. If it is rushed or a suitable programme has not been put in place, it can delay recovery and be detrimental to a patient’s overall health. Specialist seating helps support these programmes and can greatly improve a person’s quality of life. From a physiotherapist’s perspective, the correct seating will help assess a patient and understand their specific requirements.
What is a Seating Assessment?
A seating assessment reviews the condition and needs of a patient. They are undertaken by a clinically trained seating specialist and usually last approx 60 minutes. The specialist will discuss the patient’s health condition, provide a full explanation of the chosen specialist chair and evaluate the space within the premises to make sure the right solution is being offered. The findings will help support a postural management programme.
What is Postural Management?
Postural management is a term used to help improve a patient’s posture through physio exercises and specialist seating. The correct management can reduce pain and fatigue. The specialist will offer advice on optimal positioning to alleviate pressure and increase comfort.
Why is the right chair important?
Correct seating will help posture management, alleviate issues such as pressure ulcers and will provide comfort and security. It will help distribute the patient’s weight evenly throughout the body and can support movement without overextending which could cause injury and pain. Due to the full body support, the patient can relax and be secure in their position which will improve their confidence and wellbeing. In rehabilitation, conserving energy is crucial to help speed up the recovery process, the specialist chair saves excess energy being wasted by doing the hard work.
Recommended Chair to support Rehab and Physio
We recommend a Careflex Tilt-In-Space Chair, such as the HydroFlex or HydroTilt. It is highly adjustable and provides a modular form of seating. In addition, it is recommended the patient has a footrest to prevent their weight gravitating towards the feet.
For more information on how Premiere Healthcare can support you please get in touch.
