The saddle seated wheelchair was developed by ARCOS director Kay Coombes, and has been described as 'revolutionary', winning the International design award in 1994. The saddle seating system is therapeutic; promoting a comfortable, upright sitting position that provides a stable foundation for functional activities. People using a saddle-seated chair receive a great deal of helpful sensation from muscles, joints and skin. This is the feedback information we all need to feel safe and able to move without losing balance. It also encourages normal postural tone (essential tension in muscles). Because the body is supported, but not held in a fixed position, those using a saddle-seated chair have an opportunity to increase body control, be mobile and hence become more independent. In 2006, the wheelchair is being further developed, following motion analysis studies, as demonstrated in the photo below.

 - The position of the pelvis is a key factor in sitting. The saddle seat puts the pelvis in a position where it is both well supported and mobile.

- The firm, but comfortable seat, encourages the spine to extend.

- The upper body (trunk) is supported by flexible padded "wings".

- The shaped table is integral to the design. The padded edge supports the users forearms and gives a secure and stable base for hand-eye activities, encouraging the trunk to come forward and promoting head control.

In summary

• The saddle-seated wheelchair is comfortable and therapeutic, helping the user to develop stability in their own body and to be as independent as possible.
• The stability provided by the chair promotes normal breathing, swallowing, voice production and communication.
• The posture facilitated by the wheelchair helps to prevent deformities caused by spasticity and inadequate seating.

The saddle-seated wheelchair has been met with praise from both users and professionals:

"It is an excellent chair and I would be happy to see this become a standard for chairs in the future" Consultant Orthopaedic surgeon.

" We cannot put a price on the difference this chair has made on our daughter's life and our lives" Father of a client with cerebral palsy

Other users comments include:

"...I thought it was my mind that was unstable but it was my body... my wheelchair is very comfortable... my back is straight.my hips are in the right position and I can see the whole world..."

".I can communicate better, even without words..."

"... people are not frightened of me now..."

"...my new chair was the best for my communication with all people, because people can see my bright eyes..."

"...Yesterday I was so uncomfortable when I was shopping in my crappy old red wheelchair. I felt very disabled again..."