Seating and positioning

Assessment matches the seating system to the body, functional needs, and therapeutic goals.

Good seating supports skin health, posture, comfort, participation, and confidence. Seating tolerance can affect access to work, education, and leisure.

Cushions balance posture, function, and pressure distribution; needs and wear vary. No single material or design suits everyone.

Cushions spread load through offloading, sinking into material, and contouring around the body.

Foam, gel, air, honeycomb, and alternating-pressure designs each involve trade-offs.

Backrest height, contour, and stiffness balance stability with movement. A lower backrest may allow more arm movement but offer less trunk support.

Footrest position affects leg support, posture, and pressure under the pelvis. Incorrect height can encourage sliding or concentrate sitting pressure.

Armrests can support posture, transfers, and redistribution of sitting pressure.

Positioning belts and limb or trunk supports supplement the main seating system. Accessories complement rather than replace an appropriately fitted base system.