Wheelchairs come in various types and sizes. They range from the simple to high-end manual or motorized machines. There are some made with fixed parts while others are collapsible for easy transportation and storage.
The type of wheelchair a person uses depends on many factors that include:
Based on these and many other factors, the following types of wheelchairs are commonly used.
This is one of the commonest types of wheelchair. They are manual and self-propelling. The front wheels are small while the rear ones are big with a separate ring slightly smaller than the wheel that allows the patient to propel himself around. This chair is collapsible for easy transportation and storage. When need arises, a caregiver can conveniently push the wheelchair for the patient.
Examples of Standard wheelchairs.
These are made for patients who are heavier than the average person. They can bear weights that range from between 250 to 700 pounds. Bariatric wheelchairs are wider, sturdier and made with strong materials such as stainless steel or carbon steel with different types of coatings for a shiny and glossy finish.
Depending on the model and various functions, bariatric wheelchair prices range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Examples of Bariatric wheelchairs.
This type of wheelchair, sometimes simply referred to as a Transport Chair, is ideal for a patient who cannot use their hands for self-propulsion. The wheels are small which allows the care-giver to push it easily. Another characteristic of these chairs is that they are mostly made with aluminum, making them very light and highly maneuverable in small spaces.
Examples of Transport wheelchairs.
These are custom made wheelchairs that are specifically made for patients who are on the chair the majority of the time. They are made to ergonomically support the patient's disability with utmost comfort. They are made with either a fixed or foldable frame. Different patients can make specific suggestions with the design they want according to their lifestyle and preferences.
These wheelchairs have high and adjustable backs. Many have an option of a removable or fixed headrest. Another common feature is independent adjustable leg position. There are many advantages of a reclining wheelchair.
These include:
Examples of Reclining wheelchairs.
These are made with the comfort and safety of the child in mind. They come in different colors to meet different children's tastes. To help a child lead a slightly more near normal life, some models are designed in such a way that the child can stand.
Examples of Pediatric wheelchairs.
Examples of Pediatric rehab.
These are made for speed and in a way that they cannot easily tip over. They are sturdy and can be designed to meet the user's needs. This wheelchair enables the user to participate in various sports including tennis, basketball and athletics.
Wheelchairs have many parts that wear and tear due to use. Many wheelchair merchants such MDSupplies have these after sales products so that the wheelchair user is guaranteed of an efficient and safe machine.
Common parts and accessories include:
Examples of Wheelchair parts and accessories.
For the best experience, ensure you have a good understanding as to which wheelchair is best for you or the intended user before making the purchase. Wheelchairs are considered durable medical equipment, and are intended to help make life a little easier for the user of it.
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