Headrest Systems

A headrest supports the head and neck in a wheelchair, and on a tilting chair it is not optional: once someone tilts back, the head has to go somewhere.

It is two parts, and both matter

A headrest system is a pad and the hardware that holds it. They are chosen separately, and one does not automatically fit the other.

The pad is what touches the head. Sizes run from around 6 to 14 inches, and the shape decides how much control it gives.

The hardware is the mounting arm and slide bar. It determines how far the pad can be positioned forward, back, up and down, and how easily it adjusts. Quick-release and flip-away arms let the headrest swing out of the way for transfers and put it back in exactly the same position, which is what stops it being left off.

Choosing the pad

A flat or lightly contoured pad simply gives the head somewhere to rest. It suits someone with good head control who tilts occasionally.

A curved or hugging pad wraps around the back and sides of the head, giving lateral control for someone whose head drifts to one side.

A deeply contoured or multi-axis system supports a head that cannot be held up at all, and the multi-axis hardware lets every angle be set independently, which is what makes a difficult head position achievable.

Custom moulded headrests are made to the individual where nothing off the shelf fits, usually alongside a custom seating system.

Why position matters so much

Head position affects far more than comfort. It determines whether someone can see the room and make eye contact, whether they can swallow safely, and whether they can breathe without effort.

A head that falls forward or to one side restricts the airway and makes eating and drinking harder and riskier. A headrest set an inch out of position can undo the benefit entirely, which is why these are fitted rather than simply supplied.

Get it set by someone who knows

Where an occupational therapist or seating specialist is involved, bring their recommendation and we will supply and fit exactly what they specified. We carry Matrx, Whitmyer, Permobil, Ki Mobility and Future Mobility, which are the systems most often prescribed in Ontario.

If no one has assessed it yet and the person's head is falling forward, ask for an assessment before buying hardware. Getting this wrong is uncomfortable at best and unsafe at worst.