Vacuum Supports

Vacuum Supports for Bespoke Postural Positioning & Pressure Care

Vacuum support systems provide a highly adaptable seating and positioning solution for children and adults who require personalised postural support. At John Preston, we offer a comprehensive range of vacuum supports from leading manufacturers including Stabilo, Burnett ReMould and Bodymap, helping individuals achieve safe, comfortable and clinically effective positioning across a wide variety of environments. Unlike traditional moulded seating, vacuum supports can be quickly reshaped and adjusted to accommodate changing postural needs, making them an ideal solution for long-term care and rehabilitation.

Designed using thousands of lightweight microbeads contained within a durable airtight cover, vacuum supports mould precisely to the user's body before air is removed to create a firm, supportive shape. This unique technology provides exceptional pressure distribution, stability and comfort while reducing unwanted movement and promoting optimal posture throughout the day.

Flexible Positioning for a Wide Range of Clinical Needs

Vacuum positioning systems are suitable for individuals with complex seating and postural requirements, including those living with neurological conditions, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, acquired brain injury, spinal injuries and other conditions affecting posture and mobility.

Our range includes solutions for:

• Specialist seating and postural support
• Wheelchair positioning
• Home and community seating
• School and educational environments
• Therapy and rehabilitation
• Bathing and personal care positioning
• Head, neck, trunk and limb support
• Pressure care and positioning cushions

Because vacuum supports can be re-moulded as needs change, they provide an excellent alternative to permanent moulded seating for many users.

Customised Support That Adapts to the Individual

Every individual has unique positioning requirements. Vacuum supports allow clinicians and carers to create a bespoke seating solution within minutes, helping improve posture, enhance comfort and encourage greater participation in everyday activities.

Many products within our range can be used independently or alongside specialist seating systems, wheelchairs, bathing equipment and therapy programmes, providing versatile support across multiple care environments.

Expert Assessments & Clinical Advice

Selecting the correct vacuum support system requires careful assessment to ensure the right level of postural support and pressure management. At John Preston, our experienced seating specialists work closely with occupational therapists, physiotherapists, healthcare professionals, carers and families to recommend the most appropriate solution.

We also offer professional seating assessments and product demonstrations, helping ensure every vacuum support system is correctly configured to maximise comfort, function and independence.

Why Choose John Preston for Vacuum Supports?

• Wide range of adaptable vacuum positioning systems
• Trusted brands including Stabilo, Burnett ReMould and Bodymap
• Solutions for seating, wheelchairs, therapy and bathing
• Re-mouldable designs that adapt to changing postural needs
• Expert seating assessments and personalised advice
• Supporting healthcare professionals, care providers and families throughout Northern Ireland, Ireland, Scotland and across the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vacuum Supports

What are vacuum supports?

Vacuum supports are specialist positioning products that can be shaped around an individual and then made firmer by removing air from the support. This allows the product to retain a configured shape for positioning or support, depending on its intended application.

How does a vacuum support work?

A vacuum support typically contains small beads within an airtight outer structure. While air is present, the support can be shaped. Air is then removed using a compatible pump or valve system, causing the contents to become more stable and retain the selected form.

What are vacuum support systems used for?

Vacuum support systems can be used for specialist seating and positioning applications. Their exact intended uses vary by manufacturer and product, so they should be selected and configured according to individual requirements and manufacturer guidance.

What is a vacuum positioning cushion?

A vacuum positioning cushion is a mouldable support that can be shaped around part of the user's body before air is removed to maintain the configuration. Different sizes and shapes are available for different positioning applications.

Are vacuum supports the same as conventional cushions?

No. Conventional cushions generally have a fixed shape or material structure, whereas vacuum supports can be moulded and then stabilised into a particular configuration. Their specialist nature means appropriate selection and setup are important.

Can vacuum supports be reshaped?

Many vacuum positioning products can be returned to a mouldable state by allowing air back into the support. They can then be reshaped and the vacuum reapplied. Always follow the instructions for the individual product.

Are different sizes of vacuum supports available?

Yes. Vacuum supports are available in different dimensions and shapes for various seating and positioning requirements. Selection should be based on the intended application and individual user's measurements rather than size labels alone.

Can vacuum supports be used with specialist seating?

Some vacuum supports are designed for use as part of specialist seating or positioning arrangements. Compatibility with the chair, seating system and other components should be established before use.

Can vacuum supports be used in wheelchairs?

Certain vacuum positioning products may be intended for compatible wheelchair or seating applications. Appropriate fit, stability and compatibility with the wheelchair and its other seating components should be assessed carefully.

What is a Stabilo vacuum support?

Stabilo is a range of specialist vacuum positioning products available in different shapes and configurations. Individual Stabilo products have specific intended applications and sizing, so specifications should be reviewed when selecting a support.

What is a BodyMap vacuum support?

BodyMap products are vacuum positioning supports designed for specialist positioning applications. Different models and sizes are available, and selection should reflect the user's requirements and the intended seating or positioning environment.

Do vacuum supports require a pump?

Vacuum supports generally require a compatible method of removing air through their valve system. The pump or equipment required depends on the manufacturer and product, so check what is supplied and which accessories are compatible.

How do I choose the correct vacuum support?

Consider the intended positioning application, user's measurements, product dimensions and compatibility with other equipment. For complex requirements, assessment by an appropriately qualified professional is advisable.

How should a vacuum support be maintained?

Care and cleaning requirements vary by product. Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding covers, surfaces, valves, cleaning products, inspection and storage. The support should also be checked regularly for damage or loss of vacuum.

Should vacuum positioning supports be professionally assessed?

Professional assessment is advisable where vacuum supports form part of a complex seating or positioning system. An occupational therapist, physiotherapist or other appropriately qualified professional can help establish requirements and appropriate configuration.

Where can I buy vacuum supports?

John Preston Healthcare supplies vacuum support systems and specialist positioning products from manufacturers including Stabilo, BodyMap, Burnett and Jonvac. Customers and healthcare professionals can explore available products online or contact the team regarding demonstrations and specialist requirements.