Wheelchair Back Cushions Overview
Wheelchair back cushions are essential accessories designed to enhance the comfort and support of wheelchair users. These cushions are specifically crafted to provide additional lumbar support, relieve pressure, and promote proper posture while seated. Typically made from materials like foam, gel, or air, they help reduce discomfort and the risk of pressure sores, making long periods of sitting more manageable. Some back cushions are adjustable and feature contoured designs to fit the natural curve of the spine, offering targeted support where it’s needed most. Whether for added cushioning, improved posture, or pressure relief, wheelchair back cushions play a crucial role in ensuring a more comfortable and supportive sitting experience
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Guide to Top Wheelchair Cushions for Maximum Comfort
Guide to Wheelchair Cushions and Support Accessories for Elderly
Back Cushions Comparison
Compare our best-selling back cushions side by side on measurement, material, best for and who it suits. Specs are the manufacturers’ listed figures. Call 585-505-6665 if you want us to check a model against your needs before you order.
Swipe the table sideways to see every spec. Product names stay put.
| Product | Measurement | Material | Best For | Who? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| McKesson Seat Back Cushion (22″W x 19″D) | 22″W x 19″D | Foam | Wide wheelchair users needing firm, supportive cushioning | Ideal for individuals seeking reliable back support with a broad seating surface. |
| Permobil Acta-Back Deep 7 Cushion | 18″W x 16″-20″H | Foam | Individuals needing deep lateral support | Suitable for those who require additional postural control and comfort. |
| Permobil Visco Back Cushion | 16″-20″W x 16″-20″H | Viscoelastic Foam | Users requiring pressure relief and comfort | Ideal for those who prioritize comfort and pressure redistribution. |
| McKesson Seat Back Cushion (20″W x 19″D) | 20″W x 19″D | Foam | Users needing moderate support in a standard-width chair | Great for individuals requiring balanced support and comfort in standard-width chairs. |
| Vive Health Full Wheelchair Cushion | Full Seat and Back Coverage | Foam with Gel Inserts | Complete cushioning for seat and back | Suitable for those seeking all-around comfort and protection from pressure sores. |
| Vive Health Sheepskin Wheelchair Seat & Backrest Pads | Seat: 18″W x 16″D | Synthetic Sheepskin | Users needing soft, warm cushioning | Ideal for those who need extra warmth and softness, especially in colder environments. |
| Karman Foam Back Cushion (Contoured) | 18″W x 16″H | Contoured Foam | Contoured support for improved posture | Best for individuals requiring enhanced posture support with a contoured cushion design. |
What are the benefits of using a wheelchair back cushion?
A wheelchair back cushion provides enhanced support and comfort, helping to improve posture, reduce pressure on the spine, and alleviate pain. It can also help prevent pressure sores by evenly distributing weight and minimizing friction.
How do I choose the right size back cushion for my wheelchair?
To select the right size, measure the width and height of your wheelchair’s backrest. It’s important that the cushion fits snugly within these dimensions to provide optimal support. Many cushions are available in various sizes to accommodate different wheelchair models.
What materials are commonly used in wheelchair back cushions?
Wheelchair back cushions are typically made from foam, viscoelastic foam, gel, or a combination of these materials. Each offers different benefits, such as pressure relief, support, or comfort. Some cushions also feature contoured designs for improved posture.
Can I use a back cushion with any wheelchair?
Most wheelchair back cushions are designed to be compatible with standard wheelchairs. However, it’s important to check the product specifications to ensure it fits your particular model. Some cushions are designed for specific chair sizes or types.
How do I clean and maintain a wheelchair back cushion?
Cleaning and maintenance depend on the cushion’s material. Many cushions come with a removable, machine-washable cover. For foam and gel cushions, spot cleaning with a mild detergent is usually recommended. Always refer to the manufacturer’s care instructions to ensure proper maintenance.
Proactive Medical Protekt Seat and Back Wheelchair Cushion – One-Piece Channel-Cut Foam Seat and Lumbar Back Combo, 16" to 26" Wide
$50.00
- Seat and Back Cushion in One
- Channel Cuts Redistribute Pressure
- Contoured Back for Lumbar Support
- Breathable, Fluid-Resistant Cover
- 16" to 26" Wide
- 250–500 lb by Size
Proactive Medical Protekt Adjustable Tension Back Cushion – Strap-Adjustable Wheelchair Back Support for Kyphosis and Lumbar Support, 16" to 26" Wide
$43.00
- Strap System Adjusts Support
- Accommodates Kyphosis
- Adds Lumbar Support
- High-Density Foam
- Breathable Nylon Cover
- Handy Storage Pocket
Proactive Medical Protekt Wheelchair Back Cushion – Lumbar Back Support with Stabilizing Board Insert, 16" to 30" Wide
$27.00
- Supports the Lumbar Region
- Stabilizing Board Stops Sling-Back Sag
- Improves Seating Posture
- Adjustable Safety Straps
- Breathable, Fluid-Resistant Cover
- 16" to 30" Wide, 18-Month Warranty
Karman BKF Foam Wheelchair Back Cushion – Contoured Foam Back Support for Wheelchairs, 16" to 20" Wide
$79.00
- Foam Back Support
- Firmer Than a Sling Back
- 16x17, 18x17 & 20x19 Sizes
- Made by Karman
- Light, Simple Upgrade
- Pairs with Karman Seat Cushions
McKesson Bariatric Foam Wheelchair Back Cushion, 22" W x 19" D | Board Insert, Washable Cover, Each or Case of 4
$39.00
- McKesson foam wheelchair back cushion is 22" W x 19" D high-density foam with a stabiliz…
- Sized for 22" Wide Wheelchairs
- 22" W x 19" D High-Density Foam
- Board Insert Stops Sling Hammocking
- Low-Shear Stretch Nylon Cover
- Adjustable Straps Hold It in Place
McKesson Foam Wheelchair Back Cushion 20" W x 19" D – Stabilizing Board Insert, Washable Stretch Cover, Each or Case of 4
$35.00
- Sized for 20" Wide Wheelchairs
- 20" W x 19" D High-Density Foam
- Board Insert Stops Sling Hammocking
- Low-Shear Stretch Nylon Cover
- Adjustable Straps Hold It in Place
- Each or Case of 4, Latex Free
McKesson Foam Wheelchair Back Cushion 16" W x 17" D – Stabilizing Board Insert, Washable Stretch Cover, Each or Case of 4
$35.00
- Sized for 16" Wide Wheelchairs
- 16" W x 17" D High-Density Foam
- Board Insert Stops Sling Hammocking
- Low-Shear Stretch Nylon Cover
- Adjustable Straps Hold It in Place
- Each or Case of 4, Latex Free
McKesson Foam Wheelchair Back Cushion 18" W x 17" D – Stabilizing Board Insert, Washable Stretch Cover, Each or Case of 4
$35.00
- Sized for 18" Wide Wheelchairs
- 18" W x 17" D High-Density Foam
- Board Insert Stops Sling Hammocking
- Low-Shear Stretch Nylon Cover
- Adjustable Straps Hold It in Place
- Each or Case of 4, Latex Free
Permobil Comfort Visco Back Wheelchair Back Support – Visco Foam Top Layer Contours to the Body, Aluminum Shell, 16" to 24" Wide
$360.56
- Visco Foam Top Layer Contours to You
- Three-Layer Foam Construction
- Durable Aluminum Shell
- Compass Hardware Adjusts Height, Depth, Angle
- Quick-Release 2 pt or 4 pt Options
- 400 lb Maximum User Weight
Karman CU-ERGO Memory Foam Wheelchair Back Cushion – Contoured Ergonomic Back Support with Waterproof Cover, 16" to 20" Wide
$209.00
- Karman CU-ERGO memory foam back cushion is contoured with a waterproof washable cover in…
- Contoured Memory Foam
- Waterproof, Washable Cover
- Made for Karman Ergo Chairs
- Fits Any Same-Width Chair
- 16", 18" & 20" Widths
Permobil Comfort Elements Back Support – Folding Tension-Adjustable Wheelchair Back for Kyphosis and Lumbar Support, 15"–21" or 22"–25" Wide
$237.59
- Folds With the Wheelchair
- Adjustable Tension Strapping
- Accommodates Kyphosis, Adds Lumbar Support
- Installs Over the Canes, Steel D-Rings
- 15" to 21" or 22" to 25" Wide, 16" High
- 300 lb Maximum User Weight
Permobil Comfort ACTA-BACK Deep 5" Wing Wheelchair Back Support – Angle and Width Adjustable Wings, Moldable Stays, 12"–24" Wide
$502.73
- 5" Deep Side Wings
- Wings Adjust in Angle and Width, Up to 2"
- Patented Moldable Aluminum Stays
- Three-Layer Foam With Visco Top
- Compass or Power Mount Hardware
- 12" to 24" Wide, 400 lb Max User Weight
Permobil Comfort Acta-Back Contour 8 Wheelchair Back – 8" Lateral Depth, Moldable Aluminum Stays, 16" to 24" Wide
$525.54
- 8" Lateral Depth Trunk Support
- Patented Moldable Aluminum Stays
- Three-Layer Foam, Visco Top Layer
- Lower Thoracic Support, Free Upper Trunk
- Compass Quick-Release Hardware
- 16" to 24" Wide, 16" to 22" High
Permobil Comfort ACTA-BACK Deep 7" Wing Wheelchair Back Support – Angle and Width Adjustable Wings, Moldable Stays, 12"–24" Wide
$502.73
- 7" Deep Side Wings
- Wings Adjust in Angle and Width, Up to 2"
- Patented Moldable Aluminum Stays
- Three-Layer Foam With Visco Top
- Compass or Power Mount Hardware
- 12" to 24" Wide, 400 lb Max User Weight
Permobil Comfort ACTA-BACK Deep 3" Wing Wheelchair Back Support – Angle and Width Adjustable Wings, Moldable Stays, 12"–24" Wide
$502.73
- 3" Deep Side Wings
- Wings Adjust in Angle and Width, Up to 2"
- Patented Moldable Aluminum Stays
- Three-Layer Foam With Visco Top
- Compass or Power Mount Hardware
- 12" to 24" Wide, 400 lb Max User Weight
Permobil Comfort Acta-Back Contour 5 Wheelchair Back – 5" Lateral Depth, Moldable Aluminum Stays, Quick-Release Hardware
$514.50
- 5" Lateral Depth Trunk Support
- Patented Moldable Aluminum Stays
- Three-Layer Foam, Visco Top Layer
- Lower Thoracic Support, Free Upper Trunk
- Compass Quick-Release Hardware
- 16" to 24" Wide, 16" to 22" High
Permobil Comfort ACTA-BACK Wheelchair Back Support – Moldable Aluminum Stays, Positioning Back Cushion, 12" to 24" Wide
$358.00
- Moldable, Removable Aluminum Stays
- Shapes to Spinal Curves on the Spot
- Durable Aluminum Shell
- Three-Layer Foam Construction
- Compass Hardware Adjusts Depth and Angle
- 400 lb Maximum User Weight
Permobil Comfort ACTA-Relief Wheelchair Back Support – BOA Dial Fit System, Open Frame Offloads Spinal Deformities, 14" to 20" Wide
$580.43
- BOA Dial for a Precision Fit
- Open Frame Offloads Spinal Deformities
- Allows Immersion Through the Shell
- Supports Lower and Upper Thoracic Areas
- Compass Hardware Adjusts Depth and Angle
- 300 lb Maximum User Weight
Permobil Comfort ACTA-BACK LTS Wheelchair Back Support – Lateral Trunk Supports, Moldable Stays, 12" to 24" Wide
$590.45
- Lateral Trunk Supports in 4 Sizes
- Moldable Aluminum Stays
- Side-to-Side Trunk Stability
- Durable Aluminum Shell
- Three-Layer Foam
- 400 lb Maximum User Weight
Permobil Comfort ACTA-Relief LTS Wheelchair Back Support – BOA Dial Fit, Open Frame and Lateral Trunk Supports, 14" to 20" Wide
$724.26
- BOA Dial for a Precision Fit
- Open Frame Offloads Spinal Deformities
- Lateral Trunk Supports in 4 Sizes
- 14" to 20" Wide, 12" to 22" Tall
- Compass Hardware Adjusts Depth and Angle
- 300 lb Maximum User Weight
Permobil Comfort Embrace Wheelchair Back Support – Adjustable Integrated Wings, Moldable Stays, Positioning Back, 10" to 24" Wide
$429.54
- Integrated Wings Adjust Angle, Height and Width
- Moldable Stays for Spinal Curves
- Two-Layer Foam, Updated Cover
- Chest Harness Strap Guides Built In
- Pre-Drilled for BodiLink Head Support
- 400 lb Maximum User Weight
Permobil Comfort Embrace LTS Wheelchair Back Support – Lateral Trunk Supports with Moldable Stainless Steel, 10" to 24" Wide
$589.21
- Lateral Trunk Supports Included
- Moldable Stainless Steel Laterals
- Up to 8" Width and 1.5" Depth Adjustment
- Four Pad Sizes: XS, S, M, L
- Fixed Lateral Hardware Standard
- 400 lb Maximum User Weight
Out of stock
Comfort Company Comfort Back Wheelchair Back Cushion – Dual-Density Foam, With or Without Lumbar Support, 14" to 20" Wide, 450 lb
$119.00
- Works With the Existing Wheelchair Back
- With or Without Built-In Lumbar Support
- Dual-Density High-Resiliency Foam
- 14", 16", 18" or 20" Wide x 18" High
- 450 lb Weight Capacity
- One Year Limited Warranty
Need further guidance and assistance navigating?
Explore Additional Resources
Guide to Top Wheelchair Cushions for Maximum Comfort
Guide to Wheelchair Cushions and Support Accessories for Elderly