Tilt-in-space technology has been used globally for many years, providing significant functional and clinical benefits to wheelchair users who are unable to reposition themselves independently. Whether in a manual or powered wheelchair, this feature is a game-changer for managing pressure, promoting comfort and improving quality of life.
Why Do People Move in Their Seats?
Most people shift their weight up to 30 times an hour while seated, it’s something we do naturally to stay comfortable and avoid pressure build-up. However, people living with conditions such as cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries or muscular dystrophy may lack the ability to make these movements. This puts them at a higher risk for pressure injuries, pain and postural issues.
Tilt-in-space addresses these risks by enabling the whole seating system to tilt backwards in one smooth motion, keeping the body in alignment while redistributing pressure.
The Clinical Benefits of Tilt-in-Space
1. Pressure Redistribution and Skin Integrity
Tilt-in-space shifts weight from the seat and pelvis to the backrest, relieving pressure from vulnerable areas like the ischial tuberosities and sacrum. A tilt of just 20 degrees can significantly reduce shear forces, while 45 degrees or more can virtually eliminate them. This promotes blood flow and supports skin health.
2. Improved Comfort and Sitting Tolerance
With pressure more evenly distributed, users are often able to sit for longer periods without discomfort. This reduces the need for frequent transfers in and out of the chair, helping to minimise carer strain and increase user independence.
3. Postural Stability and Safety
Tilting the seat backwards increases stability and can reduce the sensation of falling forward, especially when navigating slopes or uneven surfaces. This is particularly important for users with reduced trunk control or balance.
4. Oedema and Circulation Support
When paired with elevating leg rests and recline, tilt-in-space can assist in managing lower limb oedema by lifting the legs to heart level, supporting circulation.
5. Respiratory and Digestive Benefits
Some users benefit from a reclined or tilted position to support breathing and digestion, particularly if they are at risk of aspiration, reflux or postural hypotension.
⚠️ Note: For individuals with swallowing difficulties, or those who require trays or catheter setups, tilt-in-space may not always be suitable. Always consult with an experienced assessor.
How Tilt is Applied
Tilt-in-space can be:
- Manual – adjusted by a caregiver using push handles.
- Powered – operated by the user (or attendant) with a joystick or switch.
For best clinical outcomes, tilt should be used every 15–20 minutes to offload pressure and reduce the risk of shear.
Key Benefits at a Glance
- Enables safe and effective weight shifts
- Reduces pressure injury risk
- Helps reduce migration into posterior pelvic tilt when combined with supportive seating
- Enhances user comfort and reduces pain
- Supports improved sitting tolerance
- Allows lower seat-to-floor height for better access under tables and easier stand transfers
- Improves outdoor safety by preventing footplate contact with kerbs and gutters
- Promotes better positioning for respiratory and digestive function
- Lowers the risk of shear-related skin damage
- Reduces carer load by minimising transfers
Explore Our Tilt-in-Space Wheelchair Solutions
We have a wide range of tilt-in-space solutions for both adults and children, across manual and powered platforms.
Paediatric Tilt-in-Space Manual Wheelchairs
- Little Wave Arc – Lightweight and highly adjustable
- Flexx Adapt – Easy-to-use paediatric option with customisable features
- Kidevo Prime Tilt – Durable with spring-loaded footplates
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Kidevo Mini Tilt – Compact and great for early childhood use
Adult Tilt-in-Space Manual Wheelchairs
- Karma VIP2 – Folding frame with adjustable tilt
- Ki Mobility Focus CR – Centre of gravity tilt for precision positioning
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Ki Mobility Liberty FT – A transportable tilt-in-space option
Tilt-in-Space Powerchair Option
From rear-wheel to 4x4 drive, our powered chairs support tilt-in-space functionality to meet varying clinical and lifestyle needs.
Tilt-in-Space Powerchairs Include:
- Quantum R-Trak
- Pride Jazzy J623 2.0
- Quantum Edge 3
- Edge 3 Stretto
- Quantum Q6 Edge HD
- Quantum 4Front 2
- Quantum 4Front 2 HD
- Quantum Q1450
- Quantum Outback
To compare all tilt-in-space options side-by-side, view our:
👉 Tilt-in-Space Solutions Chart
👉 Complex Powerchair Solutions Chart
Let’s Talk
Not sure which solution is best for your client? Our team of Technical Product Specialist and Customer Care Specialists are here to help. Whether it’s a paediatric setup or a complex powered configuration, we’ll support you to find the right fit.
📞 Call us on 0800 31 61 81
💬 Or get in touch online