Manual Wheelchairs

Manual wheelchairs are the type that require people to move them, there are three types of manual wheelchairs namely self-propelled, attendant propelled, and wheelbase. Many manual chairs can be folded wheelchairs for storage or movement into a vehicle.

A single-arm drive enables the user to turn either left or right while the two-armed drive enables user to move forward or backward on a straight line. Another type of wheelchair commonly used is a lever-drive wheelchair. This type of chair enables the user to move forward by pumping the lever back and forth.

At the low-cost end, heavy, tubular steel chairs with sling seats and little adaptability dominate. In a higher price range, and more commonly used by persons with long-term disabilities, are lightweight wheelchairs with more options and the top end of the market contains ultralight wheelchairs which have extensive seating options and accessories, all-terrain features etc.

A basic standard manual wheelchair incorporates a seat and back, two small front (casters) wheels and two large wheels, one on each side, and a foot rest.

One of the main disadvantages of using manual wheelchairs has to do with the upper body. Yes, the exercise is good for those who push themselves, however, over time this same motion can lead to injury; something that wheelchair users try to avoid whenever possible. Other disadvantages of a manual is having to inflate the tires and keeping the body of the chair in line. Many factors must be considered before a person can choose between a manual or a power chair.

Manual or self-propelled wheelchairs - Are propelled by the occupant, usually by using large rear wheels, from 20-26 inches in average diameter, and resembling those of bicycle wheels. The user moves the chair by pushing on the hand rims, which are made of circular tubing attached to the outside of the large wheels. A skilled operator can pull wheelies on the back wheels which is key to climbing down curbs etc.

Standard manual wheelchairs are used by those with sufficient upper extremity function that can safely self-propel the standard wheelchair. The weight for this type of wheelchair starts at 35 pounds.

Heavy Duty manual wheelchairs have a reinforced heavy-duty frame that accommodates weight capacities ranging anywhere from 250 to 650 pounds depending on the brand of chair.

Lightweight manual wheelchairs give you the most independence of movement with the least amount of effort. This type of wheelchair is recommended for someone who cannot self-propel in a standard manual wheelchair. The weight of this type wheelchair ranges from 28-34 pounds.

Ultra Lightweight wheelchair is for the highly active individual as they are more easily maneuverable and durable. This type wheelchair weighs in as low as 14 pounds. This helps with ease of use and transport.

Wheelbase chairs - Wheeled platforms with specially-molded seating systems interfaced with them for users with a more complicated posture. A molded seating system involves taking a cast of a person's best achievable seated position and the either carving the shape from memory foam or forming a plastic mesh around it. This seat is then covered, framed, and attached to a wheelbase this becomes more of a custom wheelchair then a standard type.

Attendant-propelled chairs - Designed to be propelled by an caregiver or friend who will push the wheelchair using the handles, and thus the back wheels are rimless and often smaller. These chairs are typically used as transfer chairs to move patients around places like hospitals and airports.

Manual wheelchairs are also useful for people who need to use wheelchairs on a temporary basis. A condition like a sprained ankle or a broken leg will only confine a person in a wheelchair for a few weeks or months. Since it is only temporary, it is unnecessary for that person to buy an expensive electric-powered wheelchair. A manual wheelchair will work fine during their recovery period.

Manual wheelchairs may not have all the bells and whistles that power ones offer to handicapped individuals, but they can prove to be cheaper and more efficient than the bulky power chairs.

Further Information Regarding Manual Wheelchairs

Ergonomically Designed Shower Wheelchair
Showerbuddy is not just another shower wheelchair. It is a New Zealand-designed, uniquely patented system that eliminates the often stressful and backbreaking work of shower time for individuals and their caregivers. With its own built in commode, Showerbuddy allows caregivers or users to easily transport individuals straight into the restroom or shower unit.

Rigid and Folding Wheelchairs
The primary design of a rigid wheelchair is to fit the body of the user. The primary design of a folding wheelchair is to fold. Folding wheelchairs are generally boxy, while rigid wheelchairs conform to the shape of the body. For example, with a rigid chair, one can taper the design to conform to the body shape (large at the hips, narrow at the knees) which can hold the users body in place.