by Nchimunya Mwiinga A Pressure Injury (PI) is a localized area of damage that affects the skin and, potentially, the underlying tissues, usually occurring over a bony prominence. It can manifest as either intact skin or an open wound, and it arises due to sustained pressure applied to that area for an extended period of time (Bharucha et al., 2018). PIs develop as a result of mechanical loads such as friction but usually occur amongst people that spend most of their time sitting like wheelchairs users, patients with Spinal cord Injury and patients bedridden in Intensive Care Unit. A Combination of external forces as well as weight, internal forces and other factors such as bone anatomy, microclimate and tissue thresholds, integratedly lead to either internal deep tissue injury or deformation of cells, which eventually leads to a reduction in blood fall in the loaded areas, which consequently leads to the development of a pressure injury(Grey et al., 2006, Gefen et al., 2022). Statistical data shows that an estimate of between 1 and 3 million individuals in the United States experience pressure injuries each year (Mondragon & Zito, 2024). The incidence rate varies depending on the clinical setting. For instance, the prevalence of pressure injuries among patients admitted to hospitals ranges from 5% to 15%, while the percentage tends to be considerably higher in long-term care facilities and intensive care units. This emphasizes the urgency with which PIs should be addressed (Mondragon & Zito, 2024). While the physiological impact of PIs is well-documented, the psychological ramifications for both caregivers and patients are often overlooked. This blog reviews some of the research work that has been done in analyzing the relationship between pressure injuries and psychological well-being. By exploring this work, we can understand the importance of a holistic approach towards healing and treatment of pressure injuries, emphasizing the importance of mental health for all parties involved. Pressure Injuries and Patient Psychological Wellbeing Patients with pressure injuries often experience a range of psychological effects beyond physical discomfort and pain. They may experience feelings of humiliation, social isolation, and a loss of a sense of autonomy, which can be emotionally and mentally challenging (Qian et al., 2024). Due to the close care required for treatment, patients may struggle with anxiety, which can lead to feelings of helplessness. Social withdrawal could result from stigmas surrounding wounds from people around them, exacerbating feelings of loneliness and desolation. The malodors and leakage associated with pressure injuries have been shown to also contribute to patients' social withdrawal and feelings of humiliation (Charalambos et al., 2018). Harding-Okimoto (1997, as cited in Charalambos et al., 2018) interviewed patients with pressure injuries and found that they often experienced negative body-image perceptions, which can be highly distressing and lead to mental complications such as depression and social anxiety. Further research shows that other factors are likely to affect one's mental well-being regarding having a pressure injury. Qian et al. (2024), in a study examining 215 patients with pressure injuries, found a direct relationship between a patient's level of depression and the progression of the pressure injury stages. Patients with more severe injuries reported higher levels of depression. Additionally, they found an inverse relationship between the length of care and quality of life – the longer the duration of the pressure injury, the lower the reported quality of life scores. Qian et al. (2024) found that patients' anxiety levels increased with age, which may be attributed to mobility and health issues over time, as well as a higher susceptibility to pressure injuries accompanying aging. Pressure Injuries and Caregivers Psychological Wellbeing The psychological consequences associated with pressure injuries do not only exist in the patients but the caregivers as well. Caregivers, whether healthcare professionals, spouses, or relatives, face significant challenges and stressors when managing pressure injuries. Qian et al. (2024) also examined 216 caregivers along with 215 patients and found that caregivers experience higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression compared to patients. They also found that the location, particularly sacral and ischial injuries, of a pressure injury was found to be a significant determinant of more extensive care, placing a heavy burden on caregivers. This implies that caregivers had invested more of their time and emotional capacity to be available and present for their patients. Furthermore, the study revealed a direct correlation between caregiver stress and the progression of pressure injury stages, reflecting the impact of the injury's severity on caregivers' mental well-being. The psychological toll on caregivers is multifaceted. Feelings of stress, anxiety, and burnout can arise from the demanding nature of providing care for patients with pressure injuries. The need for constant vigilance, attending to wound care, and managing pain can be emotionally and physically taxing. These findings highlight the importance of recognizing and addressing caregiver stress and the need for support systems and self-care strategies. Neglecting the emotional well-being of caregivers can lead to burnout, compromised quality of care, and negative patient outcomes. Psychological ramifications experienced by both groups Quin et al. (2024) found a statistically significant correlation between patient depression and caregiver burden, reflecting the patient-caregiver dynamics present when treating pressure injuries. They also discovered that the sleep quality of both patients and caregivers deteriorated as the pressure injury stage became more severe. Patients experienced sleep difficulties due to pain, while caregivers had to provide heightened nocturnal care. Similarly, depression and stress levels increased for both parties as the pressure injury progressed, highlighting the direct correlation between injury severity and psychological distress. Notably, as caregivers' burden increased, there was a significant rise in the probability of patients experiencing high levels of depression. They also found a correlation between the duration or length of care provided and the well-being of both patients and caregivers, with both groups experiencing lower levels of mental well-being as the length of care increased. Integrating Mental Health in Pressure Injury Care: A Holistic Approach The interconnectedness of physical and mental health in pressure injury care cannot be overlooked. Charalambos et al. (2018) suggest that stress can impair the healing process in humans, thereby affecting the treatment of pressure injuries. They discuss how stress can impair the healing process by affecting various biochemicals and hormones essential for wound healing. Ebrecht et al.(2004) found that as perceived stress increased, the speed of wound healing decreased, highlighting the direct impact of psychological factors on physical recovery. To address this, a holistic approach that integrates mental health support is crucial. Incorporating mental health professionals into care teams can ensure that both the physical and psychological needs of patients and caregivers are addressed. Open communication and education about the psychological impacts of pressure injuries can empower caregivers and patients to prioritize their mental well-being. Furthermore, technological innovations like Kalogon's products can play a significant role in alleviating the burden on both patients and caregivers. By promoting autonomy, mobility, and advanced air pressure management, these devices can restore - to some degree - a sense of control and independence for patients, while reducing the caregiving demands on loved ones or healthcare professionals. For instance, products such as the Booster are useful for leak detection in air-based cushions, maintaining pressure in case of a leak, and adjusting to environmental pressure changes, which can reduce the anxiety that deflation may result from unexpected deflation. Meanwhile, products like the Orbiter and Arbiter Med can assist wheelchair users with pressure offloading and pressure control, all of which help patients and ease the burden on caregivers. Collaboration between healthcare providers, mental health professionals, and companies like Kalogon can pave the way for a comprehensive approach to pressure injury care, addressing the multifaceted needs of all parties involved. Conclusion The relationship between pressure injuries and psychological well-being is undeniable. Patients with PIs often experience negative emotions, social isolation, and a diminished quality of life, while caregivers grapple with stress, anxiety, and burnout from the demands of providing care. Neglecting mental health can impede the healing process and exacerbate the detrimental impacts of pressure injuries. To truly promote holistic healing and well-being, it is crucial to integrate mental health support into pressure injury care plans. By acknowledging and addressing the psychological needs of both patients and caregivers, healthcare providers can create a more comprehensive and effective approach to treatment. Additionally, leveraging innovative technologies that restore autonomy and alleviate caregiver burdens can further support a multifaceted approach to pressure injury management. Prioritizing mental health is not only a matter of compassion but also a fundamental aspect of effective pressure injury care and overall well-being. Kalogon is not just concerned about improving the sitting lives of its clients but also their holistic well-being. References Bharucha, J. B., Seaman, L., Powers, M., Kelly, E., Seaman, R., Forcier, L., McGinnis, J., Nodiff, I., Pawlak, B., Snyder, S., Nodiff, S., Patel, R., Squitieri, R., & Wang, L. (2018). A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial of a Novel, Noninvasive Perfusion Enhancement System for the Prevention of Hospital-Acquired Sacral Pressure Injuries. Journal of wound, ostomy, and continence nursing : official publication of The Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society, 45(4), 310–318. https://doi.org/10.1097/WON.0000000000000450 Charalambous, C., Vassilopoulos, A., Koulouri, A., Eleni, S., Popi, S., Antonis, F., Pitsillidou,M., & Roupa, Z. (2018). The Impact of Stress on Pressure Ulcer Wound Healing Process and on the Psychophysiological Environment of the Individual Suffering from them. Medical archives (Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina), 72(5), 362–366. https://doi.org/10.5455/medarh.2018.72.362-366 Mondragon N, Zito PM. Pressure Injury. [Updated 2024 Feb 28]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557868/ Ebrecht, M., Hextall, J., Kirtley, L. G., Taylor, A., Dyson, M., & Weinman, J. (2004). Perceived stress and cortisol levels predict speed of wound healing in healthy male adults. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 29(6), 798–809. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0306-4530(03)00144-6 Qian, L., Yan, S., Ting, S. T., Han, Z. M., & Qi, T. (2024). Complications and psychological impact of pressure ulcers on patients and caregivers. International wound journal, 21(4), e14836. https://doi.org/10.1111/iwj.14836

Melbourne, Fla. (October 30, 2024) - Kalogon, the market leader in smart seating solutions, today announced that its first Medicare-approved product, Orbiter Med, has received a Special Mention in TIME's Best Inventions of 2024 list. This prestigious recognition underscores Orbiter Med's significant impact on improving seated wellness within healthcare, transportation and defense industries. Every year for over two decades, TIME has highlighted the most impactful new products and ideas in TIME’s Best Inventions issue. To compile the list, they solicited nominations and evaluated each contender on several key factors, including originality, efficacy, ambition, and impact. Orbiter Med was selected in a small group of Special Mentions on the list for 2024. Launched in 2024, Orbiter Med is Kalogon’s custom cushion for pressure management and postural support for wheelchair users, pilots, transportation workers and more. Each Orbiter Med cushion features Kalogon’s groundbreaking Advanced Pressure Management System (APMS) clinically proven to improve blood flow and is built to provide postural support customizations designated by a clinician, seating specialist or therapist. APMS uses machine learning and patent-pending air cell technology to analyze pressure points and adjust to prescribed levels in real time to maintain skin integrity and influence posture. "This recognition from TIME is a huge honor for Kalogon and is a direct result of our customers, partners and team," said Tim Balz, CEO and co-founder at Kalogon. "Kalogon doesn’t create products looking for a solution – everything we do is born out of the needs of our customers. To have our first Medicare-approved product recognized by such a reputable publication validates our customer-centric approach and expands the impact we can have in moving the industry forward." For more information on Orbiter Med, contact Kalogon to be connected to you local representative at Kalogon.com. About Kalogon We empower individuals to lead active, seated lives. Kalogon redefines seating through patent-pending technology featuring our advanced pressure management system. Kalogon’s products promote seated tissue health using adaptive customizations, ambient adjustments and personalized settings. Our products are clinically validated to improve comfort and lessen fatigue for those who sit for extended periods, such as wheelchair users, pilots and drivers. Learn more at https://www.kalogon.com. Media contact: Heather Sliwinski Changemaker Communications for Kalogon heather@changemakercomms.com

This past weekend, Team Kalogon participated in the 2024 Troy J Smith Ability Games, an event created to showcase the strength and grit of adaptive athletes working alongside their non-disabled teammates. Hosted by Stay In Step, the Ability Games have been a powerful platform since 2017, giving athletes with and without spinal cord injuries the chance to tackle shared challenges together. Ability Games for Adaptive and Non-Disabled Athletes Alike Held each fall, the Ability Games bring together adaptive and non-disabled athletes, with this year featuring around 20 from each group representing organizations like Stay In Step, Brooks Rehab, and CORE in Orlando. Competing in wheelchair-based challenges, teams of four—two adaptive athletes paired with two able-bodied teammates—pushed each other and themselves to the limit. The gym was packed with about 140 attendees, vendors, and supporters, cheering the 11 teams on throughout the day. For non-disabled participants, the adaptive workouts were a deep dive into the experiences of those who use wheelchairs, leveling the field and building new perspectives on the resilience of adaptive athletes. Team Kalogon Recap Team Kalogon showed up strong, with employees Heather and Jake teaming up with Robin, along with our Kalogon Flyer, David, to compete on the floor. Evan, another Kalogon team member, cheered them on from the sidelines. The entire team enjoyed supporting each other through each challenge, with David and Robin earning well-deserved awards for their hard work and determination. Team Kalogon is already looking ahead to next year, committed to training even harder for the 2025 games. At Kalogon, supporting active, seated lives goes beyond our products to our community who embodies resilience and teamwork. The Ability Games were a chance to connect with people who share that mission, making this weekend an experience we’re proud to be part of.

Observed every November, World Wide Pressure Injury Prevention Day raises awareness about the severe impact of pressure injuries (PIs) and emphasizes the importance of prevention. This year, Kalogon is highlighting findings from its Inaugural Seating & Sitting Survey to contribute to this global conversation. Conducted in late 2023, the survey gathered responses from over 1,300 individuals, including the general U.S. population and wheelchair users, to explore their experiences with sitting, comfort, and pressure injuries. The results are a call to action: pressure injuries affect 2.5 million people annually in the U.S., causing 60,000 deaths and costing up to $151,700 per injury. Among wheelchair users, 51% reported having experienced a PI, underscoring the urgent need for preventive measures and better support for prolonged sitting (Figure 1.) Key insights include: Prevalence of Pressure Injuries: 13% of the general population and half of wheelchair users reported PIs. Demographics Matter: Urban residents, younger adults (25–44), and men showed higher prevalence rates. Pain Awareness: Individuals with PIs often report greater discomfort, reflecting heightened sensitivity to their condition. PIs can develop from prolonged pressure that limits blood flow, particularly in areas over bony prominences like the sacrum and coccyx. These injuries are preventable with better seating solutions, increased education, and early intervention. World Wide Pressure Injury Prevention Day serves as a reminder of the critical need for global efforts to address this issue. Kalogon’s survey reinforces the importance of understanding diverse seating needs and identifying at-risk populations to improve prevention strategies. Together, we can work towards a world with fewer pressure injuries. For more insights and solutions, visit https://www.kalogon.com/research References: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, AHRQ (2014). Preventing pressure ulcers in hospitals. https://www.ahrq.gov/patient-safety/settings/hospital/resource/pressureulcer/tool/pu1.html Agrawal, K., & Chauhan, N. (2012). Pressure ulcers: Back to the basics. Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery, 45(02), 244–254. https://doi.org/10.4103/0970-0358.101287 Zulkowski, D.N.S., RN, D. K. (2015, March). Wound Classification Webinar. Washington, D.C.; Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). https://www.ahrq.gov/sites/default/files/wysiwyg/professionals/systems/hospital/pressure_ulcer_prevention/webinars/webinar6_pu_woundassesst.pdf Kalogon. Inaugural Seating & Sitting Survey. (2024, January). https://www.kalogon.com/research/2024-seating-sitting-survey Saunders, L. L., Krause, J. S., Peters, B. A., & Reed, K. S. (2010b). The relationship of pressure ulcers, race, and socioeconomic conditions after spinal cord injury. The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 33(4), 387–395. https://doi.org/10.1080/10790268.2010.11689717 National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury Facts and Figures at a Glance. Birmingham, AL: University of Alabama at Birmingham, 2023 https://www.nscisc.uab.edu/public/Facts%20and%20Figures%202023%20-%20Final.pdf

At Kalogon, we’re always exploring new ways to share the innovative ideas behind our products and research. Today, we’re introducing a fresh take on our Orbiter White Paper – an AI-generated podcast created by NotebookLM. This podcast offers a thoughtful overview of the key insights from our white paper, presenting complex topics like the impact of pressure injuries and the groundbreaking solutions provided by Kalogon’s Orbiter cushion in a conversational and approachable format. It’s an engaging way to explore the technology and research that drives our mission. As with any AI-generated content, you may notice some occasional quirks or minor errors. Even so, the podcast captures the core themes of the white paper effectively and provides a compelling summary of our work. We encourage you to tune in, explore, and see how Orbiter is transforming comfort and care for wheelchair users. Experience this unique perspective on our research and innovation: full podcast below! Highlights Include: [00:44] The hosts explore the devastating impact of PIs, including tissue damage due to restricted blood flow, with statistics highlighting 60,000 deaths annually in the U.S. alone. [02:38] "Up to 50% of wheelchair users experience PIs, compared to 13% of the general population." [04:15] Existing Solutions: Pressure Offloads and Tilt-in-Space Wheelchairs [05:43] The Challenge with Traditional Cushions [06:59] A breakdown of Orbiter's technology, including its viscoelastic foam layer, dynamically adjusting air cells, and integrated app for customization. [08:27] Clinical Evidence Supporting Orbiter's Effectiveness "Orbiter showed significantly better blood flow than static cushions." [09:53] Case Study: Ms. Z’s Remarkable Recovery "After two years with a stage IV pressure injury, Ms. Z healed completely in 10 months with Orbiter." [11:34] The Broader Impact of Innovative Technology

The annual list recognizes the industry-leading companies that are the best at what they do. Melbourne, FL, December 4, 2024 -- Kalogon is proud to announce its inclusion on the Inc. 2024 Best in Business list in the Small and Mighty (10 – 49 Employees) category. Inc.’s annual Best in Business Awards celebrate the exceptional achievements and contributions of companies that have made a profound impact on their industries and on society at large. Inc.’s Best in Business list recognizes companies that, through exceptional execution, have achieved significant milestones and core business wins, like customer expansion, key product launches, increased market share, and industry-defining accomplishments. Companies from a wide range of industries – such as technology, health care, finance, and retail – have been recognized for their success and their positive influence on the business world. The full list can be found on Inc.com and in the upcoming winter print edition of Inc. magazine. “For over 40 years Inc. has been committed to recognizing America’s most dynamic businesses and honoring the great work they do. These businesses have had a profound impact on their industries, solving important problems, and shaping the future of business in ways that will have lasting effects,” says Inc. editor-in-chief Mike Hofman Inc.’s Best in Business Awards are open to companies of all sizes and types, in all industries and locations. Public, private, nonprofit, subsidiary, U.S.-based, and international companies are all encouraged to apply. Inc. editors and reporters hand-review every application and select Best in Business honorees that, in each of the award categories, have had an outstanding influence on their communities, their industries, the environment, or society as a whole. For more information or to see the complete list, please visit inc.com/best-in-business. View our profile https://www.inc.com/profile/kalogon About Inc. Inc. is the leading media brand and playbook for the entrepreneurs and business leaders shaping our future. Through its journalism, Inc. aims to inform, educate, and elevate the profile of our community: the risk-takers, the innovators, and the ultra-driven go-getters who are creating our future. Inc.'s award-winning work achieves a monthly brand footprint of more than 40 million across a variety of channels, including events, digital, print, video, podcasts, newsletters, and social media. Its proprietary Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since its launch as the Inc. 100 in 1982, analyzes company data to rank the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The recognition that comes with inclusion on this and other prestigious Inc. lists, such as Female Founders and Power Partners, gives the founders of top businesses the opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers, and credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. For more information, visit www.inc.com.

As the year draws to a close, the Kalogon team are reflecting on an incredible 2024 filled with innovation, growth, and meaningful connections. From launching new products to attending industry-shaping events, none of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of our community, partners, and customers. Here's a month-by-month recap of our year and a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been part of our journey. January We kicked off 2024 with a bang, officially delivering Booster, designed to reduce anxiety of using your existing single cell cushion by measuring and maintaining your clinician’s recommendation for pressure in an air cell cushion, and the next step in innovative seating solutions. February Our first journal article was published in the Journal of Tissue Viability, showcasing how our cushion's offload mode improves blood flow and oxygenation in gluteal tissue. CEO and Founder Tim Balz presented at the Florida Venture Forum, sharing Kalogon’s vision for the future in our home state. We hosted a “Love Your Butt” pressure mapping event, giving wheelchair users insights into their seating systems. March Kalogon graduated from the AARP AgeTech Collab cohort, equipping us with tools to disrupt the longevity economy with cutting-edge innovations. We took our mission coast to coast, attending events like the Reeve Foundation, Abilities Expos, and CSUN. We launched additional Orbiter accessories: the XLR charger, extender, incontinence cover, and replacement covers. April Kalogon announced the launch of Orbiter Med, a medicare-approved custom wheelchair cushion for pressure management and postural support. We sponsored Kalogon Flyers’ David Kellam Jr., Dalkin Gomez, and Kenny Menendez who participated in Survival of the Fittest, an adaptive athlete competition at CORE in Orlando. May We announced that Kalogon raised $1.2 million in extended seed funding to expand its line of products built for an active, seated life. Team Kalogon explored how to integrate our solutions into aviation at the Aircraft Interiors Expo with Collins Aerospace. We joined more Abilities Expos and teamed up with Lexi, an Ainsley’s Angel, for the Indy Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. June Kalogon shipped our very first Orbiter Med, opening doors to even greater accessibility and comfort! July The team came together for our first team offsite event, discussing our vision and goals for Kalogon’s future success and endeavors. August Our second journal article was published in the Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology. CEO Tim Balz was invited to pitch at KPMG and Rally Innovation. September Tim Balz attended and spoke at the All Wheels Up Global Forum, addressing innovation in wheelchair materials and accessible air travel. October We were honored to be named among America’s 100 Best and Brightest Small Businesses by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and attended the prestigious CO-100 event. Team Kalogon was on the road for pretty much the entire month, bringing our products directly to communities across the U.S., and were able to stay safe after Hurricane Milton hit headquarters. November Kalogon's first Medicare-approved product, Orbiter Med, received a Special Mention in TIME's Best Inventions of 2024 List. This honor validates our customer-centric approach and expands the impact we can have in moving the industry forward. We welcomed Kelly Waugh, a renowned physical therapist and wheelchair seating expert, as our Clinical Advisor. Her four decades of experience and leadership within the International Organization of Standards have already begun to help us shape the future of wheelchair seating. Kalogon participated in the Troy J. Smith Ability Games, an event created to showcase the strength and grit of adaptive athletes working alongside their non-disabled teammates. Kalogon employees Heather and Jake teamed up with Robin, and Kalogon Flyer David, to compete on the floor. December Kalogon was honored as one of Inc. Magazine 2024 Small and Mighty Best In Business award honorees. We wrapped up the year with our 6th Abilities Expo. Energized and ready for 2025, with some exciting plans already in the works to make next year even better! 2024 was a year of achievements and gratitude. To our partners, supporters, and the incredible individuals who use our products — you are the reason we continue to innovate and grow. As we look ahead to 2025, we’re filled with excitement for what’s to come. Thank you for being a part of our journey, and here’s to making even greater strides together in the year ahead! Happy New Year! —The Kalogon Team

As we celebrate National Engineers Week, we’re inspired by our dedicated team who have driven every breakthrough in our smart seating technology, committed to enhancing comfort and preventing life-threatening pressure injuries for wheelchair users. As we continue to grow in the medical industry, we are now penetrating a variety of markets including aviation and automotive partners, which all involve different seated surfaces and different solutions. Engineering at Kalogon is about tackling complex challenges with a human-centered approach. The development of our products requires expertise in mechanical, electrical, and software engineering, all working in unison to create independence-enhancing features that remove barriers historically excluding wheelchair users from fully participating in work, social life, and recreation. This work is deeply personal to our engineers, who see the direct impact of their designs every day. “I got into engineering to solve real-world problems, and working at Kalogon allows me to see the tangible difference we make in people’s lives,” says Tim Balz, Founder and CEO. A day in the life of a Kalogon engineer is a blend of problem-solving, iteration, and collaboration. Whether refining algorithms, testing durability, or enhancing user experience, every step is crucial to ensuring our products provide real-world benefits. “There’s nothing more rewarding than designing technology that improves mobility and independence for wheelchair users,” says Electrical Systems Engineer Jake. Our engineers’ ability to quickly develop, test, and refine products allows us to stay ahead of industry trends. We use real-time feedback from users to make immediate improvements. Our work with the US Air Force demonstrates this capability, as we rapidly developed and tested new cushions for pilots based on their feedback. We then take those iterations and swiftly introduce changes learned from the DoD into our medical products, and vice versa to form a harmonious cycle. For us, it's all about inclusivity. Our team is driven by the belief that assistive technology should be intuitive and adaptable. By continuously refining our designs, we strive to make every seat smarter, more responsive, and more comfortable. This commitment to innovation ensures that we are keeping pace with advancements while setting new standards in the industry. As we look ahead, the future of seated technology is bright, and Kalogon remains committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Our engineers do more than just build products – they transform lives. Happy Engineering Week to all the brilliant minds making their vision a reality!

At Kalogon, we are dedicated to advancing wheelchair seating technology through innovation and research. We’ve previously shared our Orbiter White Paper AI-Generated Podcast, and have now turned our peer-reviewed study published in the Journal of Tissue Viability into podcast form for an easily understandable and engaging format to learn the information. This study explores the impact of Kalogon’s air-bladder offloading mode on blood flow in the gluteal region. Using high-resolution imaging techniques to assess how our cushion influences blood flow when set to its dynamic offloading mode, researchers hypothesized that the cushion’s ability to redistribute pressure would enhance circulation – reducing reactive hyperemia compared to a traditional static cushion setting. A group of ten non-disabled adults participated in the study, sitting on the cushion in both static and offloading modes while researchers measured blood flow using a laser speckle contrast imaging system. The findings revealed that for seven out of ten participants, the technology’s offloading sequences tended to reduce reactive hyperemia, indicating improved blood flow and potential benefits in pressure injury prevention. Scientific studies can be dense and complex, making it difficult for non-experts to grasp key insights. To bridge this gap, we used AI to generate a podcast that breaks down the findings of this study into an easy-to-understand format. This AI-powered podcast summarizes the study’s core concepts, helping listeners engage with the research in a conversational and accessible way. Of course, as with any AI-generated content, there may be occasional quirks or minor inaccuracies in translation. However, the podcast effectively captures the main themes of the study and presents them in a way that’s both engaging and informative. We highly recommend giving it a listen and exploring how the Orbiter cushion is making a difference in pressure injury prevention and wheelchair seating technology. Listen to the full podcast below! Highlights Include: [00:28] An introduction into pressure injuries [01:45] What makes Kalogon’s cushion and technology different [02:27] The study [03:12] The results [04:45] The impact of using non-disabled participants [05:40] Using Orbiter to personalize your seating experience

We’re excited to share that the updated edition of Seating and Wheeled Mobility: A Clinical Resource Guide is now available – and it includes a chapter co-written by Kalogon’s very own Clinical Advisor, Kelly Waugh, PT, MAPT, ATP, alongside Dr. Barbara Crane, PT, PhD, ATP/SMS. This comprehensive resource, first published in 2018 and now newly revised, brings together thought leaders and subject matter experts across the seating and mobility field. It remains one of the most respected clinical guides in the industry. Kelly and Barbara’s chapter, “Chapter 9: Standardized Measures of the Person, Seating System and Wheelchair,” delivers a detailed look at the essential linear and angular body and equipment measurements used in seating assessments, product specification, and wheelchair fitting. “The goal was to create a common language – shared definitions and measurements that improve communication across the care and development continuum. That clarity leads directly to better fit, better outcomes, and a higher quality of life for wheelchair users.” — Kelly Waugh, PT, MAPT, ATP These standardized measurements are grounded in international standards and terminology developed over the past two decades. This chapter serves as a condensed, accessible version of two highly regarded clinical guides that Kelly and Barbara co-authored: A Clinical Application Guide to Standardized Wheelchair Seating Measures (2013) and the Glossary of Wheelchair Terms and Definitions, Version 1.0 (2013). These manuals were created through a PVA grant to make the content in several relevant ISO wheelchair seating standards more understandable and accessible to clinicians, suppliers, engineers, and other professionals working in the complex rehabilitation technology space. Kelly, who has been a central figure in international wheelchair standards development since 1998, served as Chair of the Wheelchair Seating Working Groups for both RESNA and ISO that developed the standard on seating measures. Her work has played a foundational role in shaping how posture and seating support measurements are understood and communicated globally. While Kelly’s chapter is a standout contribution, the entire book offers an outstanding collection of knowledge from leaders across the field. Each chapter covers a different aspect of seating and mobility – from clinical assessment and pediatric mobility to funding strategies and emerging technologies – making this resource invaluable for anyone in the industry. Whether you're a seasoned clinician, a product designer, or new to the field, there’s something in this guide to elevate your practice and understanding. How to Access These Resources Order the Book: Seating and Wheeled Mobility: A Clinical Resource Guide Save 20% with discount code ESA04 Download the Free Clinical Guides: Clinical Application Guide & Glossary of Terms At Kalogon, we’re proud to have Kelly’s expertise at the heart of what we do. Her leadership in shaping global standards for wheelchair seating continues to influence how we approach innovation and user-centered design.

World Health Day happens every year on April 7 to mark the founding of the World Health Organization (WHO). It's a global check-in – time to look at the biggest health issues affecting people everywhere, and how we can do better. One issue that deserves way more attention? Pressure injuries. These injuries can start small but lead to serious health problems, especially for people who spend a lot of time sitting or lying down. And the stats are alarming: 60,000 Americans die each year from pressure injuries and related complications The average cost to treat just one pressure injury is $22,000 Pressure injuries affect more than 1 in 10 people in the general U.S. population (for wheelchair users, that number jumps to 1 in 2) And in the spinal cord injury community, 95% will experience a pressure injury in their lifetime These injuries are painful, expensive, and often preventable. The WHO has emphasized how preventable conditions like these put major stress not just on healthcare systems, but on individuals, families, and caregivers. At Kalogon, we’re digging into the data to help shift that. Our seating & sitting survey shows how widespread pressure injuries are – and how overlooked proper support and positioning can be. We’ve also published a white paper on the impact of smart seating tech in real-world settings, and have several journal articles proving Kalogon’s technology improves blood flow when seated – a necessary in preventing pressure injuries. We’re focused on prevention, because no one should have to deal with a pressure injury when there are tools to help stop them before they start. At Kalogon, we believe in starting with awareness. That’s why we’re using World Health Day to keep the spotlight on this issue and share the resources that matter. Want to dive deeper? Check out: 🔗 WHO: Pressure ulcers and general patient safety 🔗 AHRQ: Pressure Injury Prevention Toolkit

At Kalogon, collaborative design and rapid prototyping are the foundation of our product development process. By prioritizing customer feedback and iterative improvements, we’ve developed solutions that address real needs for wheelchair users, healthcare professionals, and even the U.S. Air Force. Rapid Prototyping in Action Our process begins with listening. Kalogon’s first prototype was built in just one week, and we consistently deliver multiple iterations faster than industry standards. For instance, working with an aviation partner, we successfully developed and refined two prototypes within one month. Other stories include our collaboration with the U.S. Air Force, where we adapted our iterative design approach to develop smart seat cushions (Orbiter Ace) for B-52 pilots. By leveraging techniques inspired by SpaceX, we designed hardware optimized for cost-effective, rapid iteration, producing dozens of prototypes for testing with end-users. We’re able to do this by approaching each project with a combination of data-driven insights and empathy-driven design, ensuring every iteration addresses both technical and user-centric challenges. Data-Driven Insights The team’s ability to quickly develop, test, and refine products keeps us ahead of industry trends. One standout initiative is our Pressure Mapping Events, which evaluate users’ existing cushions to identify pressure points and compare results with Kalogon’s innovative seating solutions. These events validate design changes, such as modular pre-ischial ridges or redesigned pelvic supports, and drive meaningful improvements in comfort and functionality. We offer these services for free through partnerships with local rehab gyms, fostering community excitement while raising awareness about the importance of proper seating. Empathy-Driven Design Our design process begins with understanding users’ real-world challenges through direct engagement and research. This approach ensures our products, like Orbiter Med, a Medicare-approved custom wheelchair cushion, deliver meaningful improvements in comfort and health by integrating features like custom molding, dynamic motion, and ambient sensing. In addition, our Kalogon Flyers program supports athletes by providing both monetary compensation, our innovative seating solutions products to trial and review, and an opportunity to own our products when they complete objectives in the program. Beyond that, Flyers play a critical role in our design process by offering early product feedback and ongoing insights. Their real-world experience provides our team with invaluable commentary, helping refine features quickly and ensuring the final product meets users’ needs. If you're interested in being one of the first to test drive our products, check out our application here or send a request to www.contactus@kalogon.com. Our Practical, Iterative Approach Kalogon’s commitment to collaboration and iteration allows us to respond quickly to challenges and deliver effective solutions. By combining customer insights, rapid prototyping, and advanced technology, we’re able to develop products that truly make a difference – efficiently and effectively. At Kalogon, we’re proving that innovation doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about listening, iterating, and delivering solutions that work.