Types Of Wheelchairs

The most basic type of wheel chair is the manual or self-propelled chair, comprised of two front wheels, two larger back wheels, a seat and two feet rests. These wheelchairs require the user to manually power them by gripping the rims of the rear wheels and spinning them forward.

Very similar are attendant-propelled manual wheelchairs, essentially identical except for the lack of rear rims.

An assistant pushes these wheelchairs forward from behind, usually because the user is unable to power the chair themselves.

More technologically sophisticated, electric motor-powered wheelchairs also exist. They feature rechargeable batteries. There is a great deal of variation in both the handling of these wheelchairs, from front or rear wheel driven to four wheel drive, and the design and type of their seating. Some powered wheelchairs look very similar to manual chairs, whereas some are designed more like miniature cars, with a driver’s seat and steering column.

Powered wheelchairs also vary greatly in their steering apparatus. Whilst some feature joystick-like control pads, others can be controlled by more basic movements or even by the user moving their chin. These kinds of controls are especially useful for users with nervous or spinal damage.

Less common wheelchairs include the standing wheel chair, which supports the user in a standing or near-standing position. This might be necessary due to the particular user’s injuries. Wheelchairs for disabled athletes also exist, for use in sports such as basketball or speed racing. These are very distinctive in design, particularly in terms of their wheels. These are usually angled inward to enable more precise steering.

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

Cars that have been altered so wheelchair-bound passengers can travel in them are called wheel chair accessible vehicles. These vehicles transport people in wheelchairs and passengers that don't need them as well.

National Wheelchair Basketball Association

The National Wheel chair Basketball Association was founded in the 1940's and was started by disabled World War II veterans. It's the largest and oldest sports organization for the disabled. It proves that people in wheelchairs can still enjoy active sports.

Free Electric Wheelchairs

Do a search on Google to see if there are organizations that supply these.

Invacare Wheelchair Parts

When you search online you should be able to locate these parts. They're very important to helping the lives of those who need them to be more mobile. There are a number of choices with the Invacare company.

Used Wheelchairs for Sale

You should have no trouble finding them if you search online.

Wheel Chair Ramp Construction

Everyone in a family benefits when a loved one who uses a wheel chair is provided with a wheel chair ramp. The burdens of care-givers are also lightened.

Lightweight Folding Wheel Chair

You'll want to choose one that is easy to fold as well as comfortable. It should be equipped with a pair of toggle brakes for safety. It's actually a chair on wheels that's often propelled by the user

Aluminum Wheelchair Ramps

Aluminum is a good choice since they're easy to move around since they are light. Other materials should be mixed into the aluminum for added durability. These ramps are more expensive but will last for a long time.

Light Weight Wheelchair

Be sure to choose a comfortable and sturdy model.