Careflex Hydroflex Chair

CareFlex HydroFlex Complex Specialist Seating Chair

The CareFlex HydroFlex is a highly adaptable specialist seating chair designed for adults and children with complex postural and pressure-management needs. It combines extensive positioning capabilities with integrated pressure care to provide individualised support for users with challenging neurological, musculoskeletal and postural presentations.

Designed for conditions and presentations including stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis and motor neurone disease, the HydroFlex can also support individuals experiencing muscle weakness or paralysis, abnormal muscle tone, poor sitting balance, reduced head control, pelvic instability, scoliosis and increased thoracic kyphosis.

Key features include Tilt-in-Space, Back Angle Recline, an articulating back and head section with adjustable wings, CareFlex WaterCell Technology®, adjustable seat depth and an independently elevating channel leg rest with integral footplate.

Available in Small and Medium sizes, with maximum user weights of 100 kg and 150 kg respectively, the HydroFlex provides a comprehensive specialist seating platform for users whose requirements extend beyond conventional supportive seating.

Specialist Seating for Complex Postural Needs

CareFlex categorises the HydroFlex for complex seating needs. The chair has been developed to address situations where an individual may require simultaneous management of:

• Pelvic stability
• Trunk position
• Complex spinal posture
• Head position
• Abnormal muscle tone
• Lower-limb positioning
• Pressure redistribution
• Fatigue and energy management
• Reduced sitting balance
• Reduced voluntary movement

The extensive adjustment available means the chair can be configured around the individual's presentation rather than relying on diagnosis alone.

A comprehensive specialist seating assessment is strongly recommended.

Tilt-in-Space

The HydroFlex incorporates Tilt-in-Space (TiS). Tilt-in-Space changes the reclining angle of the seat and back together without altering the relationship between the user's hip and knee angles.

This can help:

• Improve pelvic stability
• Redistribute pressure
• Support postural alignment
• Manage fatigue
• Conserve energy
• Provide periods of rest
• Change orientation
• Maintain support during positional changes

For users spending prolonged periods sitting, regular positional changes can form an important part of their pressure and postural management programme.

Back Angle Recline

The HydroFlex also features Back Angle Recline (BAR). Back Angle Recline adjusts the angle between the seat and backrest, changing the user's hip angle. This can provide a more comfortable hip position and gives clinicians and carers an additional positioning function alongside Tilt-in-Space.

The combination of Tilt-in-Space and Back Angle Recline provides considerable flexibility when configuring supported sitting and resting positions.

Articulating Back and Head Section

One of the most important features of the HydroFlex is its articulating back and head section. The back can be specifically profiled to accommodate more complex head positions and spinal presentations, including increased thoracic kyphosis. This is particularly important because changes in spinal posture frequently affect the position of the head. Rather than attempting to force the user against a conventional straight backrest, the HydroFlex can be configured to provide support around the individual's presentation.

Adjustable Head-Support Wings

The HydroFlex incorporates adjustable wings around the upper back and head-support area. These can be adjusted inwards or outwards to provide individually configured support. When used with the articulating back section, the wings can help establish a more stable and comfortable head position.

This can be particularly valuable for people with:

• Poor head control
• Altered head position
• Increased thoracic kyphosis
• Neurological conditions
• Muscle weakness
• Abnormal muscle tone

The exact position should be established during specialist assessment.

Accommodating Increased Thoracic Kyphosis

The HydroFlex is specifically designed to accommodate increased thoracic kyphosis. A pronounced thoracic curve can significantly affect the relationship between the pelvis, trunk, shoulders and head.The articulating back allows the seating system to be profiled around this spinal presentation, while the adjustable upper wings can then be positioned to provide appropriate head support.This provides greater flexibility than a conventional fixed-profile backrest.

CareFlex WaterCell Technology

The HydroFlex incorporates CareFlex WaterCell Technology as part of its standard pressure-management system. The seat cushion combines WaterCell Technology with Vapour Permeable upholstery to provide continuous pressure redistribution. This is particularly important for people with limited independent movement or those spending prolonged periods in specialist seating.

Pressure management should always be considered as part of a wider individual care plan rather than relying on the chair alone.

Flat Back Rest with WaterCell Technology

The HydroFlex backrest also incorporates CareFlex WaterCell Technology. The flat backrest provides conforming support to the lower back while the user is sitting upright or positioned in Tilt-in-Space. This combination is intended to provide long-term comfort alongside pressure redistribution.

Adjustable Seat Depth

The HydroFlex incorporates adjustable seat depth. Correct seat depth is fundamental to effective specialist seating because it helps ensure that the pelvis remains appropriately positioned towards the rear of the chair.

Correct adjustment can help:

• Maximise thigh support
• Encourage appropriate pelvic alignment
• Improve weight distribution
• Reduce unsupported areas
• Avoid excessive pressure behind the knees
• Reduce the tendency towards sacral sitting
• Improve overall postural stability

Seat depth should be configured specifically for the individual user.

Independently Elevating Channel Leg Rest

The HydroFlex features a full-width independently elevating channel leg rest. This provides substantial support beneath the lower limbs and allows their position to be altered independently of the main seating system.

The channel design assists with maintaining:

• Lower-limb alignment
• Stability
• Comfortable positioning
• Appropriate support
• Consistent positioning during elevation

Lower-Limb Elevation

The HydroFlex leg rest can elevate the lower limbs above hip level. This provides additional positioning flexibility and may help with the management of lower-leg swelling where elevation has been identified as appropriate for the individual. Leg elevation should be used according to the person's clinical requirements rather than as a substitute for assessment or treatment of an underlying condition.

Integral Footplate

An integral footplate works with the channel leg rest to support the feet and lower limbs. Appropriate foot support is important because the position of the feet can influence:

• Pelvic stability
• Lower-limb alignment
• Pressure distribution
• Overall sitting posture
• Comfort

The footplate should therefore be adjusted as part of the complete seating setup.

Angle-Adjustable Fold-Down Footplate

The HydroFlex has an angle-adjustable, fold-down footplate. CareFlex uses a single-side release for the footplate angle-control mechanism, allowing the carer to lower, adjust and stow the footplate from one side of the chair. This can simplify everyday operation for carers and support staff.

Detachable Footplate Pad

A Detachable Footplate Pad is available as an accessory. This can provide additional padding where the user's foot-support requirements make a softer contact surface desirable.

Extended Footplate

An Extended Footplate is also available. This provides an additional option where the standard footplate dimensions do not adequately support the individual's feet or lower-limb position.

Ergonomic Push Handle

The HydroFlex incorporates an ergonomic push handle. It has been designed with the user's support network in mind and provides carers with a practical position for handling and manoeuvring the chair.

Appropriate moving-and-handling procedures should always be followed when portering an occupied specialist chair.

Four Fully Braked Castors

The HydroFlex is fitted with four fully braked castors. The castors incorporate sealed-bearing hubs to provide increased durability and smoother manoeuvrability. Each castor can be fully braked to prevent rolling when the chair needs to remain stationary.

Fixed or Loose Cover Options

The HydroFlex is available with a choice of Fixed covers or Loose covers. Fixed covers provide a straightforward surface for routine cleaning, while loose covers can offer additional flexibility where the chair may need to be adapted for different users.

Loose covers may therefore be particularly useful within:

• Community equipment services
• Hospitals
• Rehabilitation services
• Multi-user environments
• Equipment loan services

Small and Medium Size Options

The CareFlex HydroFlex is available in Small and Medium sizes. This enables the chair to accommodate both children and adults, subject to appropriate body dimensions and individual assessment.

The maximum user weight differs according to size.

• Small HydroFlex: Maximum User Weight: 100 kg
• Medium HydroFlex: Maximum User Weight: 150 kg

These limits should be applied to the correct chair size rather than using a single universal weight capacity.

Suitable for Adults and Children

The HydroFlex has been developed for both adults and children. Its Small and Medium configurations and extensive postural adjustment allow it to address a broad range of body dimensions and complex seating requirements.

For children, regular seating review is particularly important as growth can alter seat dimensions and positioning requirements.

Suitable for Stroke

The HydroFlex may provide an effective specialist seating solution following a stroke, particularly where the individual experiences:

• Reduced trunk control
• Muscle weakness
• Paralysis
• Altered muscle tone
• Pelvic instability
• Reduced head control
• Postural asymmetry

The exact configuration should be determined according to the individual's presentation and rehabilitation objectives.

Suitable for Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury is specifically identified as one of the potential applications for the HydroFlex. People with acquired brain injuries may present with combinations of abnormal muscle tone, poor sitting balance, asymmetrical posture and reduced head control. The HydroFlex's adjustable positioning system can be configured around these individual requirements.

Suitable for Spinal Cord Injury

The HydroFlex may also be considered for people with a spinal cord injury. Depending on the level and presentation of the injury, specialist seating may need to address trunk stability, pelvic positioning, pressure risk and reduced independent movement.

Individual assessment remains essential.

Suitable for Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is another condition specifically identified for the HydroFlex. Users may present with complex combinations of:

• Altered muscle tone
• Postural asymmetry
• Pelvic instability
• Reduced head control
• Scoliosis
• Limited independent repositioning

The HydroFlex provides multiple adjustment points to support an individually configured seating solution.

Suitable for Multiple Sclerosis

The HydroFlex may be appropriate for people with multiple sclerosis, particularly where the condition affects strength, endurance, balance or postural control. Tilt-in-Space and Back Angle Recline can provide different supported positions throughout the day and may help with fatigue and energy management.

Suitable for Motor Neurone Disease

The HydroFlex may also be considered for individuals with motor neurone disease.

As physical requirements can change over time, the adaptable nature of the HydroFlex can be particularly useful where seating needs require regular reassessment.

Suitable for Muscle Weakness or Paralysis

CareFlex identifies muscle weakness or paralysis as one of the postural presentations for which the HydroFlex may be suitable. The chair provides support around the pelvis, trunk, head and lower limbs for users who may have difficulty maintaining their position independently.

Suitable for Abnormal Muscle Tone

The HydroFlex may be considered where abnormal muscle tone affects the user's seated posture. The appropriate setup will depend on whether the individual presents with increased tone, reduced tone, fluctuating tone or a combination of factors.

Specialist assessment is particularly important in these circumstances.

Suitable for Poor Sitting Balance and Head Control

Poor sitting balance and reduced head control can make conventional seating unsuitable.

The HydroFlex addresses these requirements through:

• Pelvic support
• Tilt-in-Space
• Back Angle Recline
• Adjustable seat depth
• Articulating back support
• Adjustable upper wings
• Lower-limb positioning

Together, these features provide a stable foundation from which the head and trunk can be supported.

Suitable for Pelvic Instability

Pelvic instability is specifically identified as an application for the HydroFlex. Correct seat depth and Tilt-in-Space can help support the pelvis, while appropriate back and lower-limb positioning provide additional stability.

Suitable for Scoliosis

The HydroFlex can also be considered for individuals with scoliosis. The highly adaptable back and positioning system provides flexibility when supporting asymmetrical spinal presentations.

The objectives of seating should be individually established, including whether the posture is flexible or fixed and whether the aim is to accommodate, support or influence the spinal position.

Dynamic Air Cushion Option

A Dynamic Air Cushion is available as an alternative seating option. This provides an additional pressure-management solution where the standard WaterCell seating system does not meet the individual's assessed requirements.

Pressure cushion selection should consider:

• Pressure risk
• Skin integrity
• Posture
• Stability
• Movement
• Comfort
• Functional requirements

Key features

• Articulating Back
• Flat Backrest with CareFlex WaterCell Technology®
• Elevating, Channel Legrest
• Angle Adjustable, Fold Down Footplate
• Adjustable Wings
• Four Fully Braked Castors
• Vapour Permeable Upholstery to all Contact Areas
• Adjustable Seat Depth
• Back Angle Recline
• Tilt-in-Space
• Hoist friendly

Client Groups

• Semi-ambulant & Non-ambulant
• Cerebral Palsy (Particularly young adult) 
• CVA 
• EMI Associated Conditions 
• Motor Neurone Disease 
• Multiple Sclerosis 
• RTA and Spinal Cord Injury 
• Rehabilitation

Environments

• Domestic / Homecare
• Nursing & Residential homes
• Specialist wards (Stroke rehab, brain / spinal injury, ITU)

Options

• Fixed Covers
• Loose Covers
• Extended Footplate
• Deep Laterally Contoured Backrest
• Transfer Arms(s)
• Manual or Motorised Actuation
• Pro-control Actuation (Only TiS & legrest motorised)
• AutoTilt (Fully motorised or Pro-control actuation)

Accessories

• Adjustable Laterals (Small / medium / kidney; Regular or wide setting)
• Groin Harness
• Pelvic Strap
• Padded Pelvic Strap
• 4-Point Padded Pelvic Strap
• Pommel
• Anterior Knee Strap
• Seat Wedge
• In Line Headrest
• Profiled Soft Headrest
• Shallow / Deep Headrest

HydroFlex vs MultiAdjust Advance

Both the HydroFlex and MultiAdjust Advance are designed for users requiring advanced specialist seating, but their configurations provide different approaches to postural management.

HydroFlex

The HydroFlex is classified for complex needs and places particular emphasis on:

• Articulating back and head profiling
• Adjustable upper wings
• Complex head positioning
• Increased thoracic kyphosis
• WaterCell pressure management
• Channelled lower-limb support
• Neurological presentations
• Poor sitting balance and head control

MultiAdjust Advance

The MultiAdjust Advance is designed for moderate to complex postural needs and uses the highly adjustable MultiAdjust platform, with features including:

• Articulating head section
• Integral seat-width adjustment
• Integral seat-depth adjustment
• Integral arm-height adjustment
• Multiple back-support options
• Elevating and negative-angle leg rest

Selection between the two should therefore be based on an individual assessment rather than assuming one chair is universally more appropriate.

HydroFlex and Pressure Management

The HydroFlex approaches pressure management through several complementary elements.

• WaterCell Technology® and Vapour Permeable upholstery provide continuous pressure redistribution at the seating surface.
• Adjustable seat depth maximises the supported area beneath the thighs and helps maintain pelvic position.
• Tilt-in-Space enables the user's loading pattern to be changed without altering the hip and knee relationship.
• Back Angle Recline provides additional positional flexibility.

An optional Dynamic Air Cushion provides an alternative where the user's pressure-care requirements indicate a different support surface.

This combination allows pressure management to be considered alongside posture rather than treating the two requirements separately.