A pressure cushion is a specially designed seat cushion that spreads your body weight more evenly, so no single spot bears too much pressure for too long. It's one of the most practical tools available for reducing the risk of pressure sores. For anyone spending long hours seated, it can make a real difference to comfort and skin health.
Here's what you need to know to choose the right one.
- A pressure cushion redistributes body weight to protect skin and tissue during long sitting periods.
- They're used by elderly Australians, wheelchair users, post-surgery recoverees, and people with limited mobility.
- The three main types are foam, gel, and air. Each suits different needs and budgets.
- "Pressure relief cushion", "anti-bedsore cushion", and "pressure care cushion" all refer to the same thing.
- If there's an existing pressure injury, or you're unsure about risk level, speak with a GP, physio, or OT first.
Jump to a section:
What a pressure cushion does •
Who uses them •
The main types •
Are they all the same thing? •
When to see a professional
What a pressure cushion actually does
When you sit for long periods, your body weight concentrates on a small number of contact points: mainly your tailbone, sitting bones, and thighs. That sustained pressure restricts blood flow to the skin and underlying tissue. Over time, this can lead to pressure injuries, also known as pressure sores or pressure ulcers.
A pressure cushion works by increasing the surface area supporting your weight. That spreads the load more evenly, keeps blood flowing, and protects your skin.
How it's different from a regular cushion
A standard foam cushion adds comfort, but it's not built for pressure redistribution. Pressure cushions use specially engineered materials designed for what's called immersion and envelopment: the cushion moulds around your body rather than just sitting beneath it. That difference matters most for anyone spending four or more hours seated each day.
Who uses pressure cushions?
Pressure cushions suit a wide range of people, not just wheelchair users. The common thread is spending long stretches seated without being able to shift weight regularly.
- Elderly Australians who spend most of the day in a chair or recliner
- Wheelchair users, including both manual and power chair users
- People recovering from surgery or illness, where mobility is temporarily reduced
- Those with incontinence issues, where skin is more vulnerable due to moisture
- People with limited sensation who can't feel discomfort building before damage occurs
If your parent or loved one has come home from hospital with reduced mobility, a pressure cushion is often one of the first things a discharge nurse or OT will suggest.
The main types: foam, gel, and air
Most pressure cushions fall into one of three categories. The right fit depends on risk level, budget, and day-to-day lifestyle.
Foam cushions
Foam is the most common starting point. High-density foam or memory foam conforms to body shape and redistributes weight passively. These cushions are lightweight, low-maintenance, and well suited to lower-risk situations, such as someone who can still reposition themselves regularly. Convoluted foam (the "egg-crate" style) adds extra pressure relief through its surface pattern.
Gel cushions
Gel cushions flow around the body to equalise pressure more effectively than standard foam. They also help keep things cooler, which is useful for anyone who finds foam gets warm with extended use. Gel is a practical step up for moderate pressure risk, or when someone is seated for most of the day.
Air (alternating pressure) cushions
Air-filled and alternating pressure cushions offer the highest level of pressure redistribution. Alternating pressure models inflate and deflate sections in a cycle, mimicking the natural weight-shifting that keeps blood flowing. These are usually recommended for higher-risk individuals, including those with existing skin fragility or a history of pressure injuries.
For a full side-by-side comparison of all three types, see our guide: Preventing Pressure Ulcers with Wheelchair Cushions.
Are "pressure relief", "anti-bedsore", and "pressure care" cushions the same thing?
Yes. These terms are used interchangeably across Australia. They all describe the same category of product: a cushion designed to reduce the risk of pressure injuries during seated use.
You may see them listed under any of these names:
- Pressure cushion
- Pressure relief cushion
- Pressure care cushion
- Anti-bedsore cushion
- Pressure-reducing cushion
- Pressure-redistributing cushion
The terminology varies between suppliers, hospitals, and aged care providers. When you're comparing products, focus on the materials and the intended risk level rather than the name on the label.
When to see a professional before you buy
For most people, choosing a pressure cushion is fairly straightforward. A foam or gel option from a reputable supplier will give good everyday protection. In some situations, though, it's worth getting professional advice first.
Speak with a GP, physiotherapist, or occupational therapist if:
- There is already a pressure injury present (even a small, early-stage one)
- The person has very limited or no ability to reposition themselves
- There is reduced or absent sensation in the seated area
- The person has had a pressure injury before
- They've recently been discharged from hospital and their skin condition is unknown
An OT can assess the exact risk level and recommend the right cushion for it. In some cases, this is funded through the NDIS or other programs. We recommend speaking with your healthcare provider when the situation is complex.
For lower-risk situations where you're looking to add comfort and basic protection, our pressure cushion range covers foam, gel, and air options across a range of sizes and price points. If you're unsure which type is right, our team is happy to help.