A Wedge Cushion is an air-filled cushion that when sat on tilts the pelvis forward slightly, enhancing the inward curve of the lower back and encouraging the user to sit more upright. This encouragement to sit properly and correctly reduces strain on the body’s joints and ligaments which in turn helps the proprioceptive sense (sense of body awareness). By improving posture and encouraging “active” sitting with a wedge cushion children can sit and stay focused for longer. As body awareness is improved, the need to fidget is reduced.
A wedge cushion can be beneficial to children who shift around or rock in their seat. The wedge cushion has raised dimples on the surface for tactile input – or can be turned over if this is not required. Wedge cushions are normally used on a chair, such as a classroom or dining room chair.
Wobble cushions (sometimes called disc cushions or instability cushions) are small round inflatable cushions, strong enough to sit or stand on. When sat on, the inflated cushion creates instability (a wobble!) encouraging the user to engage their back and core muscles. The cushions can be used on a chair or on the floor.They are strong enough to be stood on to build core strength and practice balance.
Sitting on a wobble cushion is similar to sitting on a therapy ball – only smaller, portable and more convenient. The instability engages the core muscles improving posture and core stability. The wobble effect makes sensory seeking children focus on how they sit, reducing fidgeting and helping to improve focus on the task at hand.
The Sensory Direct wobble cushion is smooth on one side and has raised dimples on the other for additional sensory input. Wobble cushions are not meant to be too comfortable. They are meant to be unstable and slightly uncomfortable to make sitting down a physical exercise – they will never be as comfortable as slouching.
