The Matrx SNUG Headrest Pad by Motion Concepts/Invacare has been named a 2025 Mobility Management Product Award winner in the Mobility: Positioning, Head category by Mobility Management.
The Mobility Management Product Awards program honors outstanding product development in Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) and accessibility. Judy Rowley, Vice President — Matrx Seating, recently sat down with Mobility Management to share more about the Matrx SNUG Headrest Pad solution and their thoughts on the future of the industry. To learn more about the Mobility Management Product Awards and view all of this year’s winners, visit https://mobilitymgmt.com/product-awards/.
MM: Tell us about the Matrx SNUG Headrest Pad: what it is, a few top benefits and features, and available sizing.
Rowley: The Matrx SNUG is the latest addition to our Matrx Headrest Series. It includes a hinged, three-panel backing plate and our popular HUG Stamina Fibre insert for unmatched conformity and comfort. It is available in 10 different models, two cover options and various sizes with symmetrical or asymmetrical lateral wings. Easy hinge access allows headrest to be “snugged” to fit with the headrest in place for precise contour adjustment.
MM: In designing this product, what were the top goals of your design team/engineers? What did they most seek to achieve?
Rowley: Top goals include:
- Adjustability for individual head support needs, providing lateral as well as posterior head support.
- Ease of setup and adjustment.
- Maximum durability.
- Compatibility with Matrx Elan and Loxx headrest hardware and with competitive hardware for maximum versatility.
- Support and comfort for those using our products.
MM: Who or what were the inspirations for your winning product’s functionality, features and design elements?
Rowley: We work directly with many of our customers, and our product development is always driven primarily by the needs of those that we serve. We also receive feedback from clinicians and caregivers, which helps us to continually evolve our Matrx products.
MM: Who benefits from your product? Can you offer a “typical” client profile, diagnosis/presentation, indications/contraindications?
Rowley: Clients who require lateral as well as posterior head support — those with higher-level spinal cord injuries, neurological conditions, geriatric conditions, acquired brain injury, etc.
MM: Does your Matrx SNUG Headrest Pad offer adjustability or customizability for the different needs of different clients?
Rowley: The five SNUG models are configurable to meet the needs of the majority of the user headrest size and individual support requirements. Easy hinge adjustment allows precise fit for each individual, also easily adjusted to meet any changing needs over time. Customization is available upon request and, as mentioned, often drives future product development, additional model sizes, etc.
MM: How does your winning product optimize independence, function, safety, confidence, success with everyday goals, etc., for its consumers?
Rowley: Firstly, the ability to configure and adjust to provide support according to individual needs means that a balance can be achieved to maximize the user’s function and independence. Every Matrx product is designed with safety in mind, for those using the products and those providing setup and adjustments. Appearance is also very important. Matrx products are designed to look good and feel good.
MM: What funding options are available for this product? Is it HCPCS coded?
Rowley: HCPCS E0955.
MM: What makes a product or service a Mobility Management Product Award winner? What advice do you have for future entrants?
Rowley: I believe that winning products are selected based on innovative designs that go beyond what has been available in the market previously and meet specific user needs.
Our advice is simple — listen to the feedback from users of the products, and those that care for them. That will always guide you in the right direction.
