How to Use a Self Propelled Wheelchair

Wheelchairs allow mobility and independence to those who have limitations in their walking. It is essential to master the use of your wheelchair and let an occupational therapist or doctor help you in this.

Many people move their wheelchairs using a technique known as "wheelies". The client must have large hands in order to span the rims, and grip strength to propel it forward.

Seating Position

Like the name suggests, a self propelled wheelchair allows you to move yourself and not rely on others. This is the primary factor that helps many to regaining their independence, or keeping it. It also reduces the risk of injury for the wheelchair user as well as those who are around them.

The person using the wheelchair must be comfortable in the chair. To ensure this, there are many options you can take. First, the footplates need to be placed in the proper position. Release the footrest catch and swing them round so that they are in front of the chair. Make sure the wheelchair user can comfortably place their feet on the footplates, and that there is enough pressure under their feet.

It is possible to lower the height of the footrest especially if the person is hemiplegic. The footrests can increase pressure on the seat bone and cause pain and discomfort when they are too high.

A strap for the forehead can help the wheelchair user stay upright, especially if their neck muscles are weak. These can be fitted by a mobility expert and can be used on wheelchairs that do not have headrests.

If the wheelchair has armrests, it is essential that they are in the proper position and that the user of the wheelchair can propel without hitting them with their arms while they move. To ensure this it is recommended to use wheelchairs that have removable or swing away armrests. Alternatively, foam inserts can be cut and put on the back of the armrest to elevate them to a more comfortable height.

It is also essential that the wheelchair has a comfortable cushion, particularly if a person using the wheelchair is at a higher chance of skin breakdown or pressure ulcers. These are because pressure ulcers result from friction between the skin and the surface of a wheelchair. In some instances, the skin can become irritated and raw due to sitting in the same position for a prolonged period of time. It may also cause blisters. Repositioning the wheelchair frequently can reduce the chance of developing pressure ulcers.

Pushing

Self-propelled wheelchairs allow users to move their wheelchairs on their own without the need for a person to push them. They are easier to maneuver because they have larger rear wheels and push handles. They can be used on many surfaces without having to worry about slipping over obstacles or getting stuck.

Be careful not to grip your chair handle too tightly when you move forward. Too much pressure could cause your hands to get cramped and limit the amount of force you are able to apply. It may also be useful to use a handrim cover or wheelchair gloves with grip material built into the palms. This will improve the posture of your hands and increase the force you use.

Keep the front casters clear of any debris, like sticks or rocks. This material can make it hard to move your wheelchair as you would expect. It could also lead to an impairment in control and/or injury. If the height of your seat to floor is high, you might think about adding extra padding on the front casters.

When climbing a small step or curb it is recommended that you use a caregiver to push the wheelchair to provide assistance. If you'd like to do this yourself, you'll require more instruction and practice under the supervision of a health professional. It is important here to position the wheelchair perpendicularly (directly) facing the curb or small steps and set the front tires just prior to the edge.

When pushing up a slope it is important to have a clear space ahead of you to ensure that you don't cross paths with other people. You'll gain speed quickly if you don't leave enough space in front of you. You could also end up colliding with another person. To help you avoid this, try to be aware of people who are around you when you're on a slope and have wheelchair self propelled folding a caregiver or a friend prepared to help you in the event you begin to fall from your wheelchair.

Braking

To ensure that the wheelchair is secure, the user must operate the braking and steering actions in a certain manner. This is particularly crucial when on a slope as it is possible for the center of gravity to move forward in the event that the braking mechanism is not applied in a controlled way.

When pushing a wheelchair, ensure that the hand is placed in the proper position, usually at ten o'clock (10:00) on the wheel, and then releasing at two clock (2:00). This will ensure that the majority (or weight) of the body is on the rear wheels, making it easier to push. It also helps maintain the strength of the elbow, shoulder and wrist joints.

To turn right in a wheelchair, move forward on the right hand rim and pull back on the left hand rim. This will cause the wheelchair to turn right and allows you to remain in your wheelchair. Wheelchairs are also available with anti-tip bars that prevent them from tipping backwards.

Always refer click here to the user guide included with your wheelchair to determine the safest slope your chair can traverse. In certain circumstances, the wheelchair might need to be temporarily dismounted and hand operated to overcome steep slopes. If this is the case, it is recommended to seek the assistance of a friend or relative and follow the procedure outlined in the User Guide.

When you are negotiating kerb stones, it is recommended that you remove and mount your vehicle using ramps as often as you can. This reduces the pressure on the back and front tyres and allow you to go faster over the kerb. Many manual wheelchairs have a kerb-climber option which can aid in this process. It improves the ability of the wheelchair to climb by around 10cm (4")

To stop a wheelchair, push the joystick inward towards you to de-clutch the motor and then release it click here gently brakes. The wheelchair will come to a stop and allow you to take off the footrests, put in walking aids, and then safely leave the chair.

Steering

The user is accountable for controlling and steering the wheelchair. This can be accomplished in a variety of read more ways, dependent on the structure of the wheelchair and any add-ons like armrests or drink/phone holders. Wheelchairs differ in their structure as well as in size and weight. The size of the front casters, for example can determine the kind of terrain that a wheelchair will manage. Small casters enable wheelchairs to move faster, but they struggle with rough surfaces such as grass or cobblestone. Large casters permit wheelchairs to glide over these rough surfaces however, the chair won't be as swift.

On smooth, level surfaces on level, smooth surfaces, the wheelchair user must push the wheels with both hands to maintain the momentum. You can do this by gripping the handrims while pushing them with both hands. Hands shouldn't be wrapped tightly around the rims of the hand as this can cause injuries and lead to over-corrections when the chair makes a turn. It is recommended that wheelchair users experiment with different degrees of leaning forwards and backwards to find the ideal balance between control and lean.

The person using a wheelchair must anticipate obstacles and plan ahead for terrain that is more challenging. It is essential that the user of the wheelchair looks over both shoulders regularly to prevent running into objects or other people. Also, in the event that they are traveling with a caregiver, they should ensure that they are able to assist if needed. If the wheelchair will be used on a slope, the caregiver should assist or drive it until the user is comfortable.

To turn, the wheelchair user pulls the rim of one hand back while pushing the other forwards. It is recommended to practice on a smooth, flat surface prior to moving onto other surface. The motion can be uncomfortable, and the wheelchair may fall over if not properly mastered. If the wheelchair has power wheels, this can relieve some pressure off the user, making turning easier. It is important to be aware that untrained strangers tend to force wheelchair users against their will. The user of the wheelchair should cover the handles or fold them inwards.