Summary of our success
In the 1980s, Action Medical Research funding helped develop a unique posture support system. Twenty-five years on, this has benefited tens of thousands of disabled children and adults, and is still helping people today.
People with severe physical disabilities typically need posture support, such as a specialised seat, to perform daily activities like eating. But this can be expensive and may cause painful pressure sores. With funding from the Charity, researchers at University College London took their answer – the ‘Matrix' seating system – from prototype through development and clinical trials to commercial use internationally.
Their award-winning design can be fitted closely to body shape, averting pressure sores and so easing considerable distress. Remarkable for its versatility, a Matrix seat's shape can be changed as needed by adjusting the links making up the web-like structure. This was not possible before and is particularly beneficial for growing children, saving money as seats do not need regular replacing.
This innovative work has made a significant impact, with worldwide fittings of over 30,000 Matrix seating systems during the past 25 years. The Matrix is still in use today, and recent modifications mean it may even be able to help correct spinal deformity. Following the Charity's origins in helping develop the first British polio vaccine and our work as ‘Action Research for the Crippled Child', Action Medical Research are proud to look back on our achievements and maintain our commitment to fighting disabling conditions.
