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It’s no secret pressure wounds are notorious for happening to people with spinal cord injuries. One of the worst of these pressure-related areas is the tailbone which can incredibly hard to heal. Because of this, we’ve created a list of cushions and pressure-relief strategies (from people with spinal cord injuries themselves) to help anyone out there who may be suffering from this incredibly frustrating pressure wound.
And one of the most important things to remember when trying to heal a tailbone pressure wound is that absolutely ZERO pressure is key. Although this can be difficult to achieve in bed, when in your wheelchair, there are several cushions on the market that can make it possible so that your tailbone literally floats in air whenever you are seated. See below.
Do you have any additional questions? Feel free to reach us at info@spinalpedia.com
Roho Hybrid Select
Made by Roho, one of the most well-known companies that makes wheelchair cushions that prevent pressure wounds, the Roho Hybrid Select has an optional cut-out in the tailbone area thanks to ischial tuberosities air inserts that creates an open space for the tailbone to be placed without any pressure on it.
Ride Designs Java Cushion
When looking at the Java Cushion with it’s cushion cover removed, you can see a large hole in the tailbone area where the cushion was modified. Providing a large hole, this cushion makes it possible for the tailbone to float seamlessly.
Isch Dish Cushion
Another factory-made cushion with tailbone area cut out, this particular cushion is preferred by active wheelchair users, which essentially means anyone who is able to transfer in and out of their wheelchair throughout the day.
“If using a ROHO, tie off some bubbles under the boney parts.”
If all you have is a basic Roho cushion and you need to get an appropriate tailbone cushion asap, a fast DIY idea is tying off the Roho bubbles that are literally under the area of the tailbone on the cushion itself, which can relieve a massive amount of pressure from that area.
Blister Band Aid
A band-aid like bandage, this can reduce rubbing and friction if placed on the tailbone
Using the “Recline” or “Tilt” Wheelchair Feature to Remove Pressure
A common way to relieve pressure from the tailbone for those with fancy powerchairs is to figure out the best placement for the tilt and recline functions on your power wheelchair (if you have these features). Many people will tilt their wheelchair back significantly whenever in their wheelchair to help with healing pressure wounds that may be on this area. If you are unsure of the best placement, consider getting pressure mapping done and test out various positions to see which is best.
Jay 2 Cushion
A popular cushion among people with SCI, this Jay cushion has butt cut-out.
Custom Roho Idea
The 3 cells in the middle by the back row keep 2” as opposed to the rest that are 3”. They are on a separate valve and you can keep them deflated.
Customized Seating
And last but not least, consider getting a custom-made cushion from your nearest seating clinic. Many people will get a custom wheelchair seat made (which is covered by Medicare/Medicaid) and it can be a literal life-safer. These cushions also feature a cut-out in the tailbone area and a removable cushion cover that can be washed as needed. See photos below.
ideas@spinalpedia.com
