How to Use a Self Propelled Wheelchair

Wheelchairs offer independence and mobility for those who have difficulty walking. It is important that you learn how to use your wheelchair, and have a doctor/occupational therapy help you in this.

Many people move their wheelchairs using a technique known as "wheelies". The user must have big hands in order to span the rims, and also have the strength to push it forward.

Seating Position

self propelled wheelchair uk-self propelled wheel chair wheelchairs enable you to move independently and not depend on others. For many it is the only way to regaining or maintaining their independence. It also reduces the chance of injury to the wheelchair user and others in the vicinity.

The user of the wheelchair should be comfortable while sitting in the chair. To ensure this, there are many ways to go about it. First, the footplates should be placed in the proper position. Release the footrest latch and swing the footrests around so they are facing the chair. Make sure that the wheelchair user's feet are placed comfortably on the footplates.

The footrest height may need to be reduced, particularly for those who are hemiplegic (one side of the body is more affected than the other). The footrests can put the pressure on the seat bone and cause discomfort and pain in the event that they are too high.

A forehead strap will help the wheelchair user stay straight, particularly if their neck muscles are weak. They can be fitted to wheelchairs with no headrests by a specialist in mobility.

If the wheelchair has armrests, it is important to ensure that they are in the right position and that the user of the wheelchair can move without hitting them with their arms when they move. It is recommended to use an armrest that is removable or swing-away armrests to accomplish this. In addition, foam inserts could be cut and put on the back of the armrest in order to raise them to a more comfortable position.

A properly-fitting cushion for a wheelchair is important, especially if a wheelchair user is at high risk for skin breakdown or pressure sores. Pressure ulcers result from friction between the skin and the surfaces of a wheelchair. In some cases skin irritation and blisters can occur when sitting in one position for a long time. Repositioning the chair regularly can reduce the chance of pressure ulcers.

Pushing

lightweight self propelled folding wheelchair self propelled wheelchair uk wheelchairs allow users to move themselves and become independent from the need for someone else to push them. They are much easier to maneuver due to their larger rear wheels and push handles. They can be used on a variety of surfaces, without having to worry about slipping over obstacles or e the centre of gravity can be pushed forward if the brakes are not applied in a controlled manner.

Always make sure that your hand is in the proper position when you push a wheelchair. Ideally, you should place it at 10 o'clock (10:00) on the wheel. Release the hand around 2 o’clock (2:00). This ensures that the bulk of the body weight is over the rear wheels and facilitates the smoothest, easiest push. It also helps to maintain the strength of the shoulder, elbow and wrist joint.

To turn right in a wheelchair, push forward on the right hand rim and pull back on the left rim. This will cause the wheelchair to turn left and will allow you to sit in your chair. Wheelchairs can also be fitted with anti-tip bars to stop the wheelchair from tipping backwards.

Consult the user guide that is included with your wheelchair to determine the maximum safe slope your chair is able to traverse. In some circumstances the wheelchair may have to be temporarily removed and hand operated to overcome steep gradients. In this case it is recommended you seek out a friend or family member for assistance and follow the instructions in the User Guide.

It is recommended to use ramps when you are negotiating the kerbstones. This will lessen the pressure on the front and back tyres allowing you to travel faster over the kerb. The kerb climber feature on many manual wheelchairs can also aid in this process by increasing the climbing capability of the chair by around 10cm (4").

To stop a wheelchair simply release the brakes and push the joystick towards you. This will break the clutch on the motor. The wheelchair will stop, and you can remove the footrests or make walking aids before safely exiting the chair.

Steering

The user is responsible for controlling and steering the wheelchair. This can be accomplished in a variety of ways, dependent on the structure of the wheelchair and any add-ons like armrests or phone or drink holders. Wheelchairs are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. The size of the front casters, for instance, can decide the type of terrain that a wheelchair will manage. Small casters allow a wheelchair to move faster, but they struggle with rough surfaces such as grass or cobblestone. Large casters can let wheelchairs to move over rough surfaces, but it won't be nearly as fast.

On smooth and level surfaces, the wheelchair user should push the wheels using both hands to keep momentum. This can be done by gripping the handrims and pushing with both hands. Hands should not be tucked tightly around the rims of the hand as this can cause injuries and result in over-corrections when the chair turns around. It is recommended that wheelchair users play with different degrees of leaning both forwards and backwards to find the optimal balance between self control wheelchair and lean.

For more difficult or difficult terrain wheelchair users should be prepared and anticipate obstacles. It is important that the wheelchair user looks over their shoulders frequently to avoid hitting objects or other people, and in the event that they are traveling with a caregiver, they must make sure that they are able to assist when required. If the wheelchair is intended to be used on an inclined slope, it must be driven or assisted by an adult until the user has gained experience with this.

To turn the wheelchair, the user pulls the rim of one hand back while pushing the other rim forwards. It is best to practice on a flat, smooth surface prior to moving onto other surface. The motion can be uncomfortable, and the chair could tip over if it is not properly mastered. The power wheels on the wheelchair can help ease the pressure on the user, and make turning easier. It is crucial to be aware that strangers who are not trained will often force wheelchair users against their will. The user of the wheelchair should cover the handles or fold them inwards.