How to Use a Self Propelled WheelchairWheelchairs offer mobility and independence for those who have limited walking ability. It is crucial to learn how to maneuver your chair and have a doctor/occupational therapist help guide you in this area.
Many people move their wheelchair using a technique called "wheelies". This requires the client to have hands that are large enough to reach across the rims and good grip strength to propel forward.
Seating Position
Self-propelled wheelchairs enable users to travel on their own and not be dependent on others. For many, this is the key to recovering or maintaining their independence. It also reduces the risk of injury to the person who is using the wheelchair as well as the people surrounding them.
The wheelchair user must be comfortable while sitting in the chair. There are a variety of things to do to ensure this. First, ensure that the footplates are in the proper position. Release the footrest catch and swing them round so that they are at the front of the chair. Make sure that the wheelchair user is able to put their feet on the footplates and that there is even pressure on their feet.
The height of the footrest may require to be reduced, particularly for those who are hemiplegic (one side of the body is more affected than the other). The footrests may increase the pressure on the bone of the seat and cause pain and discomfort when they are too high.
A forehead strap can help keep the user of a wheelchair upright particularly for those with neck muscles that are weak. These can be fitted to wheelchairs without headrests by a professional in mobility.
It is important that if the wheelchair comes with armrests, they are in an appropriate position to ensure that the wheelchair user doesn't strike them with their arms when they move. It is
best self-propelled wheelchair to choose a wheelchair with removable or swing-away armrests for this purpose. Alternatively, foam inserts can be cut and put on the back of the armrest to elevate them to a more comfortable level.
A well-fitting wheelchair cushion is important, especially if a wheelchair user is at a high risk of skin breakdown or pressure sores. Pressure ulcers occur when the skin rubs against surfaces of the wheelchair. In some cases blisters and skin irritation may occur after sitting in one position for a long period of time. Repositioning the wheelchair regularly will reduce the risk of pressure ulcers.
Pushing
Self-propelled wheelchairs enable users to move their wheelchairs on their own without the need of someone to push them. They are more maneuverable due to their larger rear wheels and push handles. They can travel across various surfaces without having to worry about slipping over obstacles or getting stuck.
Be cautious not to hold your chair handle too tightly as you move forward. Applying too much pressure can cause your hands to cramp and reduce the amount of force you can apply. You can also use gloves for wheelchairs or handrim covers with grip material on the palms. This will improve the posture of your hands and increase the force you can use.
It is crucial to keep the front casters clear of any debris like sticks and rocks. If the casters have been covered with this type of material, it could make it difficult to move in the manner you would expect from your wheelchair and can cause the loss of control and/or injury. If the seat-to-floor distance is high, you might be thinking about adding extra padding on the front casters.
It is recommended that a caregiver push the wheelchair to help you climb a curb or a small step. If you are planning to do this on your own, further training and experience is required under the supervision of a health professional. It is essential to place the wheelchair perpendicularly (directly) towards the curb or small steps and set the front tires just before the edge.
It is crucial to leave plenty of space in the front of you when going up an uphill. This will keep you from running into other people. If you don't have clear space ahead of you, you'll accelerate quickly and may be struck by other people. You can avoid this by staying aware of people around you while on a slope. Also, have an adult or caregiver available to catch you if you fall off your wheelchair.
Braking
A
best lightweight self propelled wheelchair-propelled wheelchair requires the user to control the braking and controlling actions in a certain way to ensure that the chair is safe to use. This is particularly crucial when the chair is situated on an inclined slope, since the center of gravity can be pushed forward if the brakes are not applied in a controlled manner.
When pushing a wheelchair always make sure that your hand is in the correct position, usually at 10 hours (10:00) on the wheel and releasing near two clock (2:00). This ensures that the bulk of the body weight remains over the rear wheels and allows for the smoothest, most effortless push. It also helps maintain the integrity of the shoulder the elbow, wrist 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 right and will allow you to sit in your wheelchair. Wheelchairs also come with anti-tip bars to stop them from tipping backwards.
Check the user's guide that comes with your wheelchair for the most safe slope your chair can traverse. In certain circumstances, the wheelchair may need to be temporarily removed and operated by hand to get over steep slopes. In this instance it is recommended you ask a friend or family member for help and follow the directions in the User Guide.
When traversing kerb stones, it is recommended that you remove and mount your vehicle using ramps as often as you can. This will lessen the pressure on the front and back tyres allowing you to travel faster over the kerb. The kerb climber option on many manual wheelchairs can also assist with this process by enhancing the ability of the wheelchair by approximately 10cm (4").
To stop a wheelchair, pull the joystick inward towards you to de-clutch the motor and then gently release the brakes. The wheelchair will stop, and you can take off the footrests or make walking aids prior to exiting the chair.
Steering
When using a
electric self propelled wheelchair-propelled wheelchair, the user is responsible for steering and controlling the. This can be accomplished in various ways, depending on the wheelchair's structure and any add-ons like armrests or phone and drink holders. Wheelchairs come in a variety sizes and shapes. The size of the front casters, for instance can determine the kind of terrain a wheelchair is able to handle. Small casters permit wheelchairs to move more quickly, but it can be difficult on rough surfaces like cobblestone or grass. Large casters let a wheelchair travel over rough surfaces but it isn't as fast.
On smooth and level surfaces, the wheelchair user should push the wheels with both hands to maintain momentum. This is done by gripping the rims of the hand and pushing evenly with each hand. Hands should not be wrapped tightly around the hand rims as this can cause injuries and lead to over-corrections when the chair makes in a circle. It is recommended that wheelchair users play with various degrees of leaning both forwards and backwards to find the ideal balance between control and lean.
For more difficult or challenging terrain wheelchair users should be prepared and anticipate obstacles. The wheelchair user must be aware of their shoulders and avoid hitting objects or other people. If they travel with a caregiver, they should be ready to assist if required. If the wheelchair is used on a steep slope, the caregiver should assist or drive it until the user is comfortable with this.
To turn, the wheelchair user pulls one hand rim back while pushing the other hand forwards. The user of the wheelchair should practice this on a smooth and level ground prior to attempting it on a different surface because the movement could be uncomfortable and the chair could easily tip over if the action isn't mastered. The power wheels on the wheelchair can help reduce the pressure on the user and also make turning easier. It is also beneficial to know that well-meaning but untrained people often attempt to push someone in the wheelchair against their will, which is why the user of the wheelchair should ensure that the attendant handles fold down or cover them with covers for the handles.