WheelchairJunkie's Guide to Powerchair Seating Basics By Mark E. Smith

Take an able-bodied person, set him in a powerchair, and if he's like many people I've encountered, he will first and foremost give you a dissertation on if the seat is comfortable.   And, indeed, he would be pointing to among the most obvious but complex aspects of a powerchair - the seating, that is.   As users, we're often seduced by a powerchair's torque, power, speed, maneuverability, and ride - all of which are vital - but may gloss over the importance of the seating system.  What's more, with a myriad of seating choices, selecting the right one can be a bit confusing.  However, through understanding basic seating styles, you can have a little more insight into the forms and functions of powerchair seating. Sling Seating

Characterized by reinforced vinyl or nylon upholstery stretched between two seat rails, sling seating is most commonly found on folding powerchairs.  Sling upholstery is very cost-effective, but provides a less-stable seating platform, as the upholstery can stretch and deform over time or during applications involving unconventional seating posture.  Additionally, sling seating may sway a bit along the front edge during transfers.  An add-on seat cushion is most often needed for positioning and comfort.  For a less-involved disability, one where the user doesn't have complex positioning a seating needs, an economical sling seat may serve well. Sling backs are among the most common backrest systems, found on light-use and rehab powerchairs alike.  A properly constructed sling back - consisting of foam sandwiched between the cover material, as well as a taught fit - can be quite comfortable, durable, and affordable.  Sling back upholstery doesn't, however, lend itself well to lumbar and lateral support, so it may not be appropriate for users with advanced back issues. Contoured Seating

Styled similar to automotive seating, contoured seats feature a fully padded seat base and backrest that conforms to the user, just as a "bucket seat" in a sports car.  Contoured seat users appreciate the way the seat and backrest foam keep them snugly in the seat.  What's more, the standard flip-up arms foster quick transfers.  Available in high- or medium back, with headrest and recline options, contoured seats are among the most plush and aesthetically pleasing seating systems, with users commenting that they like the non-medical look.   While contoured seating is very successful for a lot of users, it doesn't offer the pressure-relief protection of advanced rehab cushions, so high-end users at risk of pressure sores should be careful when considering contoured seating (for high-end users, a solid seat pan version is available through some powerchair manufacturers, allowing the use of a rehab cushion with a contoured backrest and armrest system). Rehab Seating

Among the most common seating for full-time powerchair users, rehab seating features a solid seat pan, full-coverage armrests, and a sling or solid backrest.  The hallmark of rehab seating is in its ability to accept specialty components, such as aftermarket seat cushions, backrests, arm pads, and positioning bolsters, adapting to complex seating needs.  Furthermore, several powerchair manufacturers offer rehab seating that is adaptable within itself, allowing dimensional and location changes of components via adjustment holes and track systems for increased tailoring and flexibility.  Of all seating systems, rehab seating offers the greatest ability to adapt to complex needs. While powerchair seating has many options - including power systems, and after-market positioning systems, such as seat cushions and backrests - understanding the three seating basics of sling, contoured, and rehab can assist in minimizing your confusion during selection, and maximize your comfort during use.