Types of Wheelchairs

Before purchasing a wheelchair, it is necessary to understand the needs of the individual who will be using it.

Wheelchairs are specifically designed chairs that enable mobility to those whose movements are hampered, either as a result of disability or an injury. A standard wheelchair incorporates a seat, a footrest, a backrest, two caster wheels in front, and two larger wheels with hand rims at the back.

A wheelchair also has handles at the top of the backrest that allows the occupant to be pushed around, especially when the occupant is unable to do it by himself.

The varieties available in the market are customized to suit the needs of the intended user. An active user or a long-term user, for instance, would be comfortable using a rigid wheelchair, rather than the standard folding wheelchair available in the market.

The following section will give you a better idea and help you choose the right wheelchair for your specific needs.

Transport wheelchairs have small wheels which do not allow users to self-propel themselves. An attendant is needed to control the movement of the wheelchair. The presence of caster wheels makes the chair extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it an ideal choice in hospitals.

These are basic wheelchairs that allow the user to manually propel the wheelchair in motion. The basic chair has two caster wheels in the front, and two large wheels at the back which allow the user to push themselves without any help. Standard chairs are collapsible, making them easy to stow away while traveling or when not in use.

Rigid wheelchairs come with a fixed frame that can be easily dismounted and stacked while traveling. Rigid chairs are meant for users who need to be in a wheelchair at all times. They are custom-made to suit the user and allow them to manually propel the chair forward.

Electric-powered wheelchairs allow the user to navigate their way via an electric motor and navigational controls mounted on the armrest. This again can be custom-made to suit the needs of the user.

The other types of wheelchairs are pediatric wheelchairs, specifically made for children, and the shower commode chairs that allow the user to wheel into the shower. Those wanting to take part in some sporting event prefer the sports wheelchair, which has angled wheels that allow the user to propel themselves forward faster.