Twenty miles southeast of St. Louis in Illinois lies the village of Freeburg. As are many towns in southern Illinois, it is home to several small businesses and light industry, including Star Cushion Products, Inc. They specialize in the design and manufacture of therapeutic cushions. Customers with mobility issues use them for support, positioning, and prevention of pressure ulcers.

Star Cushion started in 1995 in Belleville, Illinois. Thanks to their fast turnaround time in filling custom orders as well as a high degree of satisfaction from health care professionals and clients, their business quickly grew.  Ten employees became twenty, and they moved to a larger, more efficient manufacturing facility in Freeburg in 2001.

In 2000, they began manufacturing the inserts for the InvaCare Air Infinity line. Currently, they are expanding into the global market while making forays into furniture design using their cushions to provide comfort for the everyday consumer. They intend to continue to deliver cushions made with leading edge technology to their original market, the health care providers and their clients.

Rehabmart carries several products from Star.  Among them are the:

        The Star Standard Contour Air Cell Wheelchair Cushion lets the user sink in for comfortable use. The design features 4 inch air cells. It's available with up to four air valves for adjustment to individual preferences and pelvic variances.

        The STAR CXR Air Cell Wheelchair Cushions were designed for users who need extra protection for their coccyx (tailbone) area. It has dual valves for customizing to individual sitting pressures, a nest of 2 inch air cells in the back to protect the coccyx while preventing friction, and 4 inch cells over the rest of the cushion for a comfortable custom ride. 

        Galaxy Air Cell Wheelchair Cushion won the Medtrade Merit Award in 2008. The innovative design includes air cells ranging from 2 inches to 4 inches arranged to accommodate the shape of the buttocks and thighs along with a pommel (like the ones on saddles) to keep the knees positioned comfortably. The design helps to relieve pressure and friction on the coccyx and perianal areas, preventing skin ulcers.
 
The cushions weigh about three pounds and are made with flameproof latex-free Neoprene rubber designed to prevent friction and lessen the chance of pressure ulcers. They are available in pediatric, adult, and bariatric sizes.  Each one comes with a repair kit and pump; a fitted cover; and a 24-month manufacturer's limited warranty.  The Standard and Galaxy cushions have an optional rigid base made from Lexan polymer. Other accessories include incontinent covers and Starlock replacement covers.

Fran Jablway,
Medical Consumer Writer
and
Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Team Leader & CEO