A reclining wheelchair is specifically designed for use by people who have undergone complete hip and knee replacement surgery. The main purpose of this device is to allow the patient to move around in a reclined position, much like a reclining ergonomic chair, but with the additional benefit of being able to move around using both their arms and legs. Many osteotomy patients are often in need of both support and comfort when they are moving around in their new and difficult-to-manage position. A special type of mattress called a Compress Wheel mattress offers both and can greatly improve your overall quality of life while being able to stay comfortable. This type of mattress has been shown to significantly reduce pain and swelling caused by an osteotomy, reducing the need for more invasive surgery in the future.
The first step of the process of converting a patient to a reclining wheelchair is to ensure that the patient’s hips, back, and ribs are in proper positions. Once these parts are in place, the medical professional will then install cleat plates on the bottom of each leg, one at a time, so that the wheelchair can lock into place properly. These devices will also keep the wheelchair level, allowing the patient to just step up onto the platform and begin using it. The orthotic device will then be fitted over the patient’s current regular wheelchair, and adjustments can be made to accommodate any possible changes that need to be made. The doctor may also recommend an appropriate leg rest for the patient, which is specially designed to provide additional support and comfort as needed.
Some orthotic devices are made to also provide therapeutic benefits while the patient is using their new mobility aid. The most common orthosis devices used for this purpose include power stretchers, stability boards, and compression braces. Patients who have recently undergone an osteotomy are particularly vulnerable to pain from their hip area, knees, back, and neck, and using a device like a compression brace can help to reduce and sometimes eliminate the pain they experience during the day. Other devices have proven to be especially effective in osteotomy patients, including orthoses that contain various cushions designed to redistribute pressure and decrease discomfort.