Published : 2017-03-13
How to Choose A Suitable Wheelchairs?
Choosing a wheelchair can be confusing,as there are so many designs to choose from. As a manufacturer of wheelchair since 2003 and the developers of the first of foldabe wheelchair, LiberatMotion has a full assortment of wheelchairs and knowledge to help make it easy to choose which wheelchair will best fit you and your lifestyle.You should also take advice from any occupational physical therapists you may be working with when selecting a wheelchair.
When looking at different wheelchair options,you should keep in mind the following considerations:
1),Will I be using the wheelchair permanently or is it temporary use only?2),How long will I be in my wheelchair on daily basis?
3),Do I need to be able to fold the wheelchair or transport or storage?
4),Do I have limited upper body strength to self propel myself?
5),Does the wheelchair have the comfortable armrests?
6),Do I need neck support?
7),Will I need a wheelchair cushion to sit in the wheelchair?
8),Will I be using my wheelchair outdoor or indoors?
9),What type of footrests,fixed,swing away,elevating leg rest etc.
The following will detail the different types of wheelchairs available for you to choose from.
A standard folding wheelchair is a good choice if you tire easily and can’t walk as far as yo use to.These wheelchair have option such as desk vs. Full arm styles,footrest vs.elevating legrests and seat height adjustment on some models.And for convenience,transport and storage,these wheelchairs can be folded.
Wheelchair users who have active lifestyles including playing sports or outdoor adventures may require a different type of lightweight and stronger wheelchair. These wheelchairs are often designed similar to sports bicycles where material such as titanium are use for strength,lightweight and durability. The overall design for these wheelchairs is different regards to the armrest,foot rests,and even the front and rear wheels to best suit the needs for the active user.
Lightweight Wheelchairs
A lightweight wheelchairs is ideal if you intend to be in the wheelchair for an extended period of time. Because the wheelchair is lighter,it is easier to propel which is ideal for those limited upper body strength.A standard wheelchair typically weights 400 lbs or more where a lightwiehg wheelchair averages around 340 lbs. And just as standard wheelchairs, a lightweight wheelchair has various options with the front rigging,armstyle and height positioning.
Heavy duty wheelchairs are designed to support a higher weight capacity over 500 lbs. These wheelchairs are designed with special reinforcements in critical areas,double crossbraces and large seat sizes such as 20”,22”and 24”for added comfort.
A reclining wheelchairs allows for multiple back positioning for pressure relief ideal for those spending the majority of the time in a wheelchair.
Transport wheelchair are for the use of transporting someone from one place to another such as to the grocery store or shopping. Unlike a standard wheelchair,a transport chair dose not have a large rear wheels thus it cannot be self propelled.Transport chair also have a smaller, narrower, frame,that fold for transport. LiberatMotion also offer a transport/wheelchair combo product for use when with a caregiver to push you or a wheelchair that can be self-propelled.
Choose the right wheelchair and other accessories such as wheelchair cushions is dependent on your disability and dependence/independence. Consult with your therapist and/or your local home medical equipment provider for assistance.
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