Sitting Support Orthosis (SSO)

A custom Sitting Support Orthosis (SSO) is a molded polypropylene shell mounted in a lightweight but rigid base. It’s covered with fabric and vinyl. An SSO is custom-made and specifically designed to meet each person’s needs. The shell’s anterior support (which could be a chest strap, shoulder straps or a vest) and the pelvic belt help keep people correctly positioned in the SSO, providing maximum support.

The SSO fits securely into most mobility bases and can be used with laptrays and communication devices.

For more detailed information about the SSO, see Using and Caring for a Custom Gillette Seat.

To schedule an appointment call 651-290-8707.

A Custom-Molded Seat and Back Cushion 

Model Numbers:  

- Custom-molded seat cushion No. 9048

- Custom-molded seat back cushion No. 9560

The fitting process involves a 3- to 4-day appointment. Usually, this is done on consecutive days; however, if this isn’t possible,
we are able it do the fitting on single days that span over a longer period of time. The following describes an example of an SSO fitting schedule.

Appointment 1

(1 to 2 hours)

During this appointment, the seating practitioner will do an evaluation and discuss any physical limitations and the seating goals. Once completed, a model of the patient will be taken. This process is done with the patient being seated or lying on his or her stomach in order to achieve the best sitting position.

Note: Your confirmation letter states that this is an 8-hour appointment; however, you will only need to be at the clinic for 1 to 2 hours. The rest of the time is for the fabrication of the SSO by your seating practitioner.

Appointment 2

(8 hours)

This appointment includes the initial fitting and the attachment of the SSO into the wheel-chair. First, the SSO is positioned into the wheelchair and safely secured. Then, the SSO is trimmed to the proper height under the arms and legs.

Foam is added to the front of the seat bottom in order to support the legs. A pelvic belt is attached along with an anchoring strap,
anterior thoracic support, and head support. The footrests and armrests are adjusted to proper height.

The patient will be put into in the SSO many times during the day. When the patient is sitting in the SSO, the practitioner will complete pressure mapping or a pressure check to evaluate pressure management. At the end of this appointment, the seating practitioner will discuss the plan for the third day.

It is important to remember that this is an 8-hour appointment. Please bring medicines, extra clothing, lunch and any other items you might need (i.e. supplemental oxygen).

Appointment 3

(Up to 8 hours, as determined by your seating practitioner.)

During this appointment, the final fitting and fabrication of the SSO will be completed. We will discuss transferring, positioning, preventing pressure sores, and caring for your seating system.

This might be an 8-hour appointment, depending on how much work needs to be done. Please bring medicines, extra clothing, lunch and any other items that you might need (i.e. supplemental oxygen).

Appointment 4

(If necessary, as determined by your seating practitioner)

If a fourth appointment is necessary, the final fitting and fabricating will be completed on this day.