Are you sitting comfortably..? Why is a good sitting position important?
For people who spend a large part of their day sitting in wheelchairs or easy chairs, remaining in one position for a long time can lead to a number of problems. These problems can happen so slowly that you hardly notice them but it is often difficult to undo some of the damage that poor posture can cause once it is done.
Poor posture in sitting can lead to:
- muscle shortening - this can happen when muscles are held in one position for long periods; over time, loss of muscle length can become permanent and is then called a contracture
- pressure ulcers (sores) - weight or pressure concentrated in one area of the body can cause damage to the skin. This damage begins as a red area which can quickly lead to a pressure ulcer (sore)
- pain - caused by tension in the joints, muscles and ligaments
- increased spasticity or spasms - excessive tightness in the muscles or sudden uncontrolled movements of the legs or body
- increased ataxia - shaking, uncoordinated movements which can be made worse if you are not feeling well balanced or supported
- swallowing, talking and breathing difficulties - if your chest is slumped and unable to expand
- loss of balance - you may find everyday tasks more difficult to do if you feel unsupported or unbalanced in your chair
- problems keeping your head upright - if your back is very curved in the chair it may be difficult to lift your head up fully