Mobility Wheelchair Guides

What is the Purpose of a Manual Wheelchair

One can answer that simply and say that is to get around. Anyone with eyes and cognitive understanding knows that. Wheelchairs lend assistance to those with mobility problems and they are quite effective in doing its job. For some users it is only temporary in the use of the chair. In other cases it is permanent. One day, we may have a difficult time in supporting ourselves. There are different reasons why users have to use a wheelchair; no matter the reason, it is vital to have one that works. As with other mobile devices the wheelchair has many varieties. Many are self propelled and there are some that require assistance. The wheelchair is perhaps the oldest (and highly effective) forms of mobility equipment. Some health professionals use a wheelchair to transfer patients from one ward to the other. Others use it as a method of rehabilitation.

Either way, a wheelchair provides excellent stability and contributes to the rehab of another individual. The thought of having a wheelchair can be daunting. It's only daunting because there are so many aspects of it that needs to be considered. There are accessories that complement a wheelchair as well.

Some Features to Look for in a Wheelchair

As mentioned previously there are several things to look out for on a wheelchair. Many of them are light, while some are built heavily to compensate for weight. There are many things to measure the efficiency of a wheelchair. It's not an exact science. With manual wheelchairs here are some things to consider while looking for one that fits your needs and your personality:

  • Wheels - Some wheelchairs have wheels that can be taken apart easily for transportation. The reassembling of the chair is simple - and light.
  • Foldable - There are many chairs that can be folded, with or without taking off the wheels. One of the many bonuses of having a chair that can fold is that it can be taken anywhere with ease because it can be compact down enough to put in any vehicle.
  • Weight - A very popular reason people utilize a wheelchair is that it is so lightweight it is virtually movable with one arm. Being lightweight works wonders with a person's health because there is less strain involved.
  • Comfort Level - Some wheel chairs come with cushions and some come with a standard cushion requiring you to get more cushioning. One does not have to stick with the cushioning that comes standard. More can be purchased at a later time.

In way of manual wheelchair availability, there are many from which to choose:

  • Transport Chairs - These are simply designed to be transported from one location to the other. Outside of those capabilities it is not recommended for use. Transportation is essential in every day life.
  • Standard Wheelchairs - Some can double as a transport wheelchair while some are designed to use on an everyday basis. They are generally lightweight and have a large weight capacity.
  • Lightweight Chairs - The average weight of these wheel chairs is 37 pounds. It is lightweight and can be transported with no problems. They are also maintenance free, making it a smooth ride after transition. They are designed to be ergonomic with a higher weight limit. There are also lighter weight wheel chairs that have rigid frames that weight approximately 23 pounds. Compact design allows the user to use it in comfort.
  • Reclining Wheelchair - While in the wheelchair, users might as well be as comfortable as possible. These chairs recline. Users come in any size and shape, so it is vital to be able to adjust the comfort level when needed. Some adjustments can be made up to 180 degrees.
  • Tilting Space Wheelchair - This chair has intelligent weight shifting technology that comes with a head and neck pillow. Tilting is safe and the weight of the user is compensated. These chairs can also be folded.
  • Heavy Duty Wheelchairs - Heavy duty chairs can hold up to 700 pounds, and have the same maneuvering capabilities as that of the standard wheelchair. Reinforced frames allow the wheelchair to maintain the extra weight and the movement.
  • Hybrid Wheelchairs - These chairs combine the best features of the standard wheelchair and a Transport chair. From the weight to the transportability, users have options to select the wheels that best fits their everyday transportation needs.
  • Pool and Beach Chairs - The tires on pool and beach chairs allows the user to navigate through the sand and more firm terrains. These chairs can navigate, turn, and move as easily as any wheelchair can on a hard surface.
  • Airplane Aisle Chairs - They are nimble enough to fit any airplane so transportation is made safe. They are also easily folded to compensate for airline travel.
  • Excelerator Handcycles - These wheelchairs come with handles that are ergonomic and easy to use. Think of these like riding a bicycle, only more ergonomic and comfortable.

When it comes to manual wheelchairs there are also accessories like trays, wheelchair covers, stump support and a wheelchair tire changer.

Some of the world's leading designers and producers of wheelchairs put out quality and quantity. Brands such as Invacare, Pride Mobility, Medline, Drive Medical put their signature mark on each wheelchair.

Users may not need to have an electric scooter for their mobility needs. Their needs may not dictate that much. Wheelchairs are on the whole cheaper and still do a good job of meeting anyone's physical needs.

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