Stuart Mobility

If you have read any of our blog posts over the last few weeks, we have been trying to not only keep you mobile and active, but also look after your rest and recovery. We spend our waking hours worrying about keeping our customers comfortable, and that quite often leads to a little snooze (or a long nap!). This will aid your body in more ways than you might think, when so much of the population doesn’t get enough sleep - what benefits are they really missing out on?

Productivity, Concentration And Emotions

This is the most obvious benefit from getting enough sleep, we’ve all felt the headaches and cloudy thoughts from a sleepless night. Every part of thinking is affected due to the body not having enough time to repair itself and process all the input from the previous day. Research suggests that one night of reduced sleep can cause up to 36% more errors in tasks, and affect you as much as alcohol intoxication.

Mental health issues are also strongly associated with reduced sleep. There are numerous opinions over the correlation or causation between the two factors, however people that suffer with serious sleep disruption report far higher levels of depression. Couple this with the fact lack of sleep impacts on your motivation to interact socially and even recognise expressions on other people, and you have serious issues that are plaguing society.

Eating A Better Diet

If you don’t get enough sleep, it is far more likely that the scales will feel it as well as your brain. In short people that shave even a few hours off the recommended levels of sleep are far more likely to weigh more. With adults 55% more likely to become obese due to sleep being essential for maintenance of hormones and its effect on motivation.

So you’re much less likely to get the exercise you require, be it seated or otherwise, and you’re much more likely to eat more than you should be. Not getting your head down for long enough interrupts hormones that deal with appetite suppression, making it far more likely for you to over indulge. Even if you do manage to keep a lid on the snacking, your insulin response and metabolism can be hugely affected, leading to an increased likelihood of diabetes for regular light sleepers.

Keeping Healthy

Not only is your brain going to suffer, along with your friends, and also your diet - your body is going to go through a pretty rough time too. If your systems don’t have enough time to repair themselves, issues with mobility and muscles are going to appear.

There are also strong links to inflammation throughout the body, so joints are going to feel much stiffer and you simply won’t be able to do as much as you can when well rested. Inflammation in the body also affects digestive issues such as bowel diseases and even Crohn’s. Many studies have compared the rates of strokes and heart diseases, finding huge increases for people not getting 7-8 hours regularly.

For a truly relaxing experience you can speak to us about any of your seating requirementsand we will make it our duty to find you the best seating solution.

When you are shopping for your first riser recline chairs it can feel like a mine field. Shop assistants may as for all sorts of information about you, and it might seem like they bombard you with questions. These all come with good reasons attached and you should worry if these types of questions are not asked. Find out your usage and requirements will mean you receive better recommendations, and find a chair which is both comfy and does what you need it to.

When browsing through your options, you may come across a few differences, colour and fabric options included, but these will include options for different motor configurations - so what exactly is the difference between a single and a dual motor chair?

Single Motor Chairs

Unlike many things in the mobility industry, a single motor riser chair has exactly what it says it does - one single motor that powers all parts of the chairs movement. This single unit controls the backrest, foot rest and also rises the chair to standing.

Single motor chairs are often less expensive than dual motor ones, but in a good quality chair this is a motor that is large enough to cope, so there are no issues here. The only difference you will have as a user is the fact there are only one set of buttons on your handset, and this may restrict your comfort slightly. For example when reclining the backrest, your feet will have to also be raised into a preset position.

Due to having only a single motor there is much less adjustability. For example they have not ability for you to only raise your feet.

Dual Motor Chairs

In contrast dual motor riser chairs have two motors powering different parts of the movement. Due to the increased complexity these, chairs are often more expensive, but by less than you may think. One thing to remember is that dual motor chairs are no more reliable or trust worthy than single motor options, this is often miss understood in shops that do not specialise in seating.

One motor will control the backrest while the other will take charge of the footrest, shown by two separate sets of buttons on your handset. Users are able to recline the back of their chair, or raise their feet independently of each other. Meaning there are more options available for seating positions, often leading to better comfort levels.

We will quite often have a chair to fit into your budget and also your seating requirements, so if you are debating on a single or dual motor chair then get in touch and we will talk you through your options.

Each and every manufacturer claims to select the very best materials for their chairs. When they use marketing terms to make them feel unique and better than all the rest, it can be difficult to know what to choose. Unfortunately this is made worse by the advantages and benefits of each material. All on top of deciding the best colours to match in with your decor.

Some manufactures will have a wide range of different finishes, colours and also textures, and may even differentiate this further with options for home and also healthcare chairs. However in simple terms there are three basic options to consider - with a few variants underneath. We will always guide you through the process and potentially the best options for your situation - but please speak to us before ordering your chair.

Leather

Leather is often the most expensive option, and is often the default option for those looking for wipe clean. Often this is linked to issues with incontinence, however in many situations it may not be the best choice. Leather will become slippery when wet, and therefore more difficult to stay seated. Vinyl would be a much better choice, in this situation so have a look at all of your options. Ultra leather is also a possibility, and often a better alternative as it is much harder wearing and very soft.

Fabric

Regular fabric is much more breathable and stretchy than either leather or vinyl and is the most popular choice for home and healthcare chairs. Fabric is also extremely breathable which makes temperature control much easier, and sitting for lengthy periods much more comfortable.

Unfortunately it is not as simple as they name suggests, there is a huge range of fabric variations to chose from. If pressure relief is one of the requirements, VP fabrics are worth considering as they offer 4 ways stretch, and are extremely flexible - making it a perfect match with mouldable cushioning.

Vinyl

Vinyl is a good choice for those looking to stop fluid ingress, but using it for the seat itself should be avoided in some situations. Although some types of vinyl are stretchier than others, they still shouldn’t be used for pressure relief as they are much thicker and can feel had when sat on.

Fabric Protection

Another mine field can be protecting your chair, there are loads of different products, policies and companies around that will all try and sell you extra add ons. The most important thing to consider is what you are trying to protect from, if you have chosen the correct fabric then things like staining and wear will be avoided as much as possible.

So a spray on fabric protector or other solutions may not be needed. If the worry is rips and tears then an insurance based policy is the best solution. We offer a range of policy options, so get in touch for more information.

There is nothing quite like sitting down in your favourite chair and relaxing. Perhaps you’ve been running around after kids all day, perhaps you’ve been walking mountains, or perhaps you’re just enjoying some down time. Whatever the reason, our mission at Stuart Mobility is to make you as comfortable as possible.

Our chairs are brilliant, and will help to relax your body but they can only go so far. Here is a practice that goes hand in hand with our comfy chairs that will help quieten the mind - our guide to seated meditation.

To begin with select your nice comfy chair and try and use this spot each time. Your mind will begin to relate this space with relaxation, aiding your body each and every time you sit down. Make sure the chair allows you to sit upright but relaxed, many mediation teachers call this sitting with the posture of royalty. Place your hands comfortably in your lap, trying to relax as many muscles as possible.

After a few minutes of calm sitting, close your eyes slowly and begin to feel the contact you have with the chair. Feel where your body meets the chair and the different levels of pressure in different areas. Concentrate on the internal feelings of your body and mind for a few minutes and feel the messages it is giving you. Start at the top of your body and ‘scan’ down to your toes, bring your attention to each area in turn and take note of any discomfort or tension you feel.

Once you complete this step, calmly and slowly bring your attention to your breath and focus on the rising and falling of your chest. Make this the sole thought in your mind. It is natural for your attention to drift onto other things. However as soon as you realise, simply bring your attention back to your breath again. Letting all other thoughts fade away.

It is very normal to have to do this many times, and perfectly natural for thoughts to come and go in your mind. As soon as you realise this, simply let the thought go and return to the rising and falling of your chest. If it helps you can count the breaths in and out up to 10, and then start again at zero. You can sit like this for as long as you wish, but just 10 minutes a day can make a huge difference to your mental health and also your motivation.

With a little practice you will find your mind much quieter and you can focus on tasks much better. As with everything, you will need the best tools available to you. If you feel uncomfortable or are concerned with the pressures you feel while sitting - get in contact with us and see if we can help get you more comfortable.

In recent posts we’ve discussed how to combat back pain, sit comfortably and also maintain your mobility. On quite a few occasions the answer is to keep mobile and exercise, but what if that simply isn’t possible? Like many of our customers, what if you simply can’t clad yourself in lycra and head down the gym - here are some simple chair exercises to get you moving.

Before you start it is vitally import that you use a suitable chair, not only for your comfort, but also one that is nice and sturdy. If you’re in any doubt over your old chair get in contact and we can talk you through your best options.

The sit-and-stand

The most simple of all the exercises, because you may already do it numerous times a day. However these are even more beneficial if you use a rise and recline chair because you can move the chair to a position that is comfortable to stand up from. You won’t be doing a squats just yet, but the rise mechanism will provide an adjustable starting point.

• When seated plant your feet firmly on the floor at a distance that is comfortable and about hip width apart.
• Try to use your hands as little as possible and concentrate on using your leg and the core muscles in your stomach.
• Push down into your feet evenly and whilst using those core muscles, push yourself to standing. If standing all the way up is an issue go to the highest point you can without too much discomfort.
• As slowly as possible, bend your knees and lower yourself back down to a sitting position.

You aren’t aiming to set any records here, but do as many as you can in sets of 3-5. If you feel light headed at all, or out of breath stop and sit down in your nice comfy chair and relax.

Torso Twists

This is a great exercise to engage your tummy muscles and maintain some spinal mobility. You won’t be able to do this if your chair is too small or if you have high sides, so bare that in mind.

• With a straight back, sit with your feet flat on the ground hip width apart.
• If your mobility allows, interlock your fingers behind your head with elbows pointing outwards.
• At all times keep your hips and pelvis steady, exhale and slowly twist your torso to the right as far as you can without straining.
• Inhale as you turn back to the centre. After a small pause repeat this to your left.
• Be mindful of any pain or discomfort and complete 6-8 on each side.

Ankle Rolls

This is by far the easiest exercises to do, but a vital one for not only maintaining mobility but also circulation. Doing this simple action may also help with balance issues and make walking easier.

• Whilst sitting in your chair plant your feet on the floor at a comfortable distance apart.
• Whilst sitting still, concentrate on maintaining your posture and keeping your tummy muscles tight. Try not to sit back against your chair.
• One leg at a time, point and flex your ankle whist curling and straightening your toes. Do this 10 times on each foot
• Then very carefully roll your ankle to the outside and then the inside, don’t place any unnecessary pressure on the joint. Complete this 10 times for each leg.

Seated Row

This very simple movement will help to strengthen many of your upper body muscles including your arms, shoulders and back.

• Whilst siting comfortably engage your core tummy muscles with your feet flat on the floor.
• Hold both arms out in front of you at shoulder height with your thumbs pointed towards the ceiling and elbows slightly bent.
• Bring your upper arm in line with your body by bending your elbows and squeezing your shoulder blades together.
• Straighten your arms back out again and complete this 8-10 times

Whilst doing all of these exercises concentrate on sitting correctly and keeping your core muscles tight and steady. This will give you almost a whole body workout and help to maintain your joint mobility. All whilst seated in your own riser chair, in your own home.

From the very first day you enter into the world you begin ageing. You can try and hold it off as long as possible, but we are all on a relentless journey that inevitably begins to take its toll on our bodies. The ability for us to move around begins to take much more effort than it used to. Muscles and joints begin to simply not be able to do the things they once did.

It might be due to illness, injury or simply old age, but when you have no choice but to slow down it can affect more than you think. Your mobility is vitally important and here are a few things you can do to try and maintain it.

Keep Moving

As little as 10 minutes moving a day can improve your mobility and also bring lots of other benefits. If you’re not in a position to peel on the lycra, an accompanied walk around the neighbourhood will get your joints moving and stretch your muscles. There are also a huge range of simple exercises you can do, many of them seated in a suitable chair. Make sure your chair fits you correctly and is stable enough before you start - give us a call if you’re unsure.

Eat Right

For people that can’t move as much as they once did, diet is extremely important. The calorie count needs to be much lower to account for the energy you are not burning any more. The nutrition gained from the food you eat becomes much more important in order to make sure your body is able to look after itself. A good diet is the key to maintaining strength in your muscles, the suppleness of your joints and also increasing your energy levels and digestion.

If you’re not in a position to start cooking all your meals from fresh ingredients, it may be worthwhile talking to a health food store or your doctor and they may be able to advice on suitable supplements.

Think

There are two main issues with brain function as your mobility may be declining, the most important of which is how you cope with things. It’s natural to feel upset and down about your declining health, but being positive is much more beneficial to your longevity. Admittedly that is easier said than done, but the first step may be simply investing in some mobility aids. Simple things like walking sticks, stair lifts and riser chairs will help you maintain independence without the stress and strain.

Engaging your brain may also be extremely beneficial to maintaining your mobility. If your mind is active and healthy then you will feel like doing more things and feel like being active more often. Puzzles and reading will help, but it can be as easy as simply spending time with friends and family, engaging in conversation and doing something you enjoy.

If company isn’t abundant, you may be interested in keeping a journal, writing down your memories as a child or simply joining a local group to meet some new people. You can find your local support groups or organisations on the government website.

Since man first sat in a chair, their elders have been berating them to do it properly. School teachers and parents tell us to “sit up strait” and “don’t slouch” but its not always as easy as they think. In fact during a study in the 1950’s anthropologist Gordon W. Hewes found one hundred variations of common sitting positions. So how exactly are you expected to know how to sit correctly and still be comfortable?

The thing is - if you don’t get it right, poor posture can cause a whole range of health complications that run much deeper than you might think. Pain in your back, hips, legs, shoulder or neck could only be the start. Loss of motion, weakness in muscle groups, headaches and even loss of brain function are often caused by poor posture that is amplified whist sitting down. So here are a few things to considering when buying your next chair.

Seat Width

If you’re squeezing up against the sides of your chair, there is more to worry about than loosing a few pounds. Your seat should always provide you with enough room to sit comfortably and move a little, but not too much that you don’t make use of the arm rests. Initial comfort may feel fine, but a chair being too wide or too narrow can affect the way you sit over long periods of time and cause health issues going forward.

Seat Depth

Arguably this is one of the most important attributes to get right when buying a chair. The chair should support the whole length of your thighs. A seat that is too deep and your muscles will stain due to leaning back against the chair, and also cause your bottom to slide forward. If your chair is too shallow you risk restricting circulation in your legs and also rubbing the inside of your knees on the fabric.

Seat Height

The second very important fitting to get the most from your chair is the height of your seat (measured from cushion to floor). This will ultimately determine how easy it is for you to use your chair, and also ensure you’re sitting in the best position. Standard fitting chairs can vary widely and won’t fit many people well enough to be comfortable. A high chair will be much easier to stand up from, however one that is too tall will mean your feet are unable to touch the floor. This might seem harmless but it will place a huge strain on your legs, reducing circulation and also making it much harder to sit up correctly. Sit in one too low and this will strain your hips and knees as well as make it much harder to stand up from seated.

Other considerations

Rise and recline chairs can help mediate many issues with the comfort of your chair and make it much easier to stand up. However there are many more things that you need to take into account when buying the most comfortable riser chair. Things that many people overlook such as types of fabric, arm rest heights and shape of the chair back. That’s why it is vital you try out as many as possible and get some expert advice. To speak to the experts reach out through our website, or give us a ring on 01283 704 071.

According to The Back Care Charity, simple back pain costs the UK economy £37million a day. Its not all slipped discs and spinal fractures that are the issue, millions of people suffer everyday in what they refer to as “the ticking time bomb”. Even though it’s the most important part of your body many people simply don’t take good enough care of their back. Thankfully there are some really simple things that you can do to improve your spine and keep away from the doctors office.

1. Exercise Correctly

“Everyone knows that exercise is good for us, and it’s hugely beneficial to your spine health,” says Stewart Tucker, a consultant spinal surgeon at The Wellington Hospital. By moving around you allow your discs to exchange fluid and receive the nutrition it needs. Don’t slap on the weight lifting gloves just yet - because exercise as simple as keeping mobile and walking around is a huge benefit.

This will not only get your spine moving and help your mobility, it will also get your heart pumping and your muscles working, improving your circulation and also your mood - it’s a win win situation.

2. Increase Calcium Levels

Every parent encourages their children to drink lots of milk “because it will make your bones strong - and that’s more than an old wives tale. Calcium is essential to keep your bones in good stead, and dairy products are a huge source of dietary calcium. The truth is without calcium your bones may become softer, meaning your body will suffer in the long run.

They may be a little bias but The Dairy Council has a great guide on the importance of Calcium from dairy produce. Yet milk isn’t the only source so if you’re dairy free make sure your diet contains lots of leafy vegetables and fresh fish such as salmon.

3. Drink Plenty Of Water

We’ve all heard the health information, we all know what we are doing, yet the levels of dehydration in the general population is huge. “Water is necessary for the body to digest and absorb vitamins and nutrients. It’s also key to proper digestion; it detoxifies the liver and kidneys, and carries waste away” said Grace Webb, Assistant Director for Clinical Nutrition at New York Hospital. So there is little point working hard to eat well if you’re not drinking enough.

Even a mild decrease in hydration levels puts more stress on your body, increasing muscle fatigue and boosting pain levels. The little muscular soreness you had in the morning will be agony by evening without downing plenty of water. If you cannot stomach the taste there are a wide range of foods that will help hydrate you - including cucumber, salad greens and grapefruit.

4. Sit Correctly

The fact is our bodies simply are not designed to sit for long periods of time. Modern lifestyles seem hellbent on getting us to sit for as long as possible at the office; or enticing us into watching the TV. However there are many factors that may mean we are sitting including driving, injury or ill health. Thankfully there are many ways we can combat the stresses of sitting, and make sure we do it comfortably.

Sitting in the same position for a long time with bad posture, slouching over a keyboard, can cause compression on the discs in your spine and lead to premature degeneration, which results in chronic pain.” - Stewart Tucker, consultant spinal surgeon at The Wellington Hospital

Posture whilst sitting is essential. Things such as an incorrect desk or simply a poor quality chair are a leading cause of bad posture while seated. The condition referred to as ‘text neck’ that is plaguing individuals with excessive mobile phone use can also affect those with incorrect seating and TV placement. Looking down for long periods of time will stress the natural curves in your spine causing pain and some times lasting damage to your back.

Sitting in a better position will reduce wear and tear on your joints, maintain your balance and improve your spine health tremendously. It is important that the chair fits you, the seat height and depth is correct for your body shape and it gives you the correct range of motion. Universal chairs fit very few people, so a correctly fitted chair is essential if ill health keeps you sitting down.

A good chair is one of the best health benefits you can invest in. Rise and recline chairs are not just designed to help you get up - although that helps relieve pressure on your joints. They are also a great way to sit comfortably and correctly, decreasing your likelihood of health complications later. We can supply a wide range of chairs, in an even wider range of colours and fabrics - so feel free to get in contact and we will help you find the perfect seat.