The Effect of Posterior Support Cushions for the Pelvis on Sitting Posture

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between posture and posterior support cushions for the pelvis. [Subject] The subjects were 11 healthy young males and 9 wheelchair users. [Method] We measured spinal curvature, and the sternum and pelvic lines in the sagittal plane under two test conditions: conventional and specialized posterior support cushions. [Result] Use of the specialized posterior support cushions resulted in a significant decrease in angles of spinal curvature, and the sternum and pelvic lines in the sagittal plane. [Conclusion] These results show that the specialized posterior support cushion is one method of controlling posterior inclination of the pelvis in wheelchair sitting.