IMPROVED SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR WHEELCHAIRS AND METHOD OF SUPPORTING A SEATED PATIENT

摘要

A seated person is supported e.g. in a wheelchair (10) such that varied pressures are exerted on affected body areas adequate to improve blood perfusion thereat. A first, primary resilient support or cushion (30) has an inset opening (32) therein in which a second, inflatable fluid support element (40) is received, the inflatable support element (40) being located beneath the ischial tuberosities and normally being deflated whereby minimal pressures are generated on the body areas above it. Fluid may be supplied to inflate the second support element (40) thereby supporting a greater proportion of the body weight and lowering the pressures on the portions contacting the first support element (30). The inflatable support element (40) is controllably inflated and deflated by a bleed valve, a timer and an air compressor (50), so that cyclic pressure changes are exerted on the affected body areas by the two support elements (30, 40) thereby enhancing blood perfusion, comfort and lessening the likelihood of development of ulcers.