Self Propelled Wheelchairs
Self-propelled wheelchairs are intended for those who can push themselves. Being able to control the chair by yourself means you can maintain or regain your independence and be able to live life without being reliant on others.
Certain self-propelled wheelchairs have push handles, so that they can also be pushed by someone else if required. This helps to reduce the need for significant upper body strength to push the chair, which could cause arm injuries.
Easy manoeuvrability
In contrast to power wheelchairs, that are powered by an electric motor, self-propelled chairs rely on the user's strength to push them forward. They are able to easily maneuver around furniture, tight corner and other obstacles.
They are a great choice for people who want to maintain or regain their independence. They can also be an excellent exercise option. Utilizing the strength of their upper bodies to propel the chair, it engages muscles and boosts cardiovascular health. Furthermore, many self propelled chairs offer a range of adjustable features to meet your individual requirements.
Unlike standard manual wheelchairs, that are designed with rear wheels on the back of the chair, self-propelled chairs feature large rear wheels and push-rims, which make it easier to move them using a hand. They are also lighter than electric ones, which means they require less space in your home and can be more easily transported by public transport.
When choosing a self-propelled wheelchair, it's crucial to take into consideration the needs of the client and lifestyle. They might require a wheelchair that is puncture-proof or outdoor tires so they can use it on uneven terrain or off road. Some customers may also require a special frame to ensure that their feet can access the pedals with ease.
It's also important to consider the seat-to-floor distance. For instance, people with hemiparesis, who only have a function only on one side of their body, require an office chair with a lower seat-to-floor distance so that they can propel themselves using their hands.
The ability of a client to reach the front wheel is a different factor. Idealy they should be capable of reaching the centre of the front wheel using their index and thumbs, but it will depend on the extent of their function and how far from the ground the wheels are.
It's also worth considering powered devices. These can reduce the strain on the upper body of the customer and give them more energy to perform other things. They're not for all. For example, they may not be appropriate for those who require a chair that is heavy duty or have severe mobility issues.
Greater independence
Self-propelled wheelchairs provide the user with the power to move themselves, allowing them to be independent. It allows the user to control their movement, so they can maneuver around crowded areas and furniture with ease. They can also travel at their own speed and over rough terrain. This freedom is crucial for the well-being as well as social participation of the user.
It is important to note that a self-propelled wheelchair requires the use of both arms, which can lead to arm injuries if the motions are not done correctly. To avoid this, it is essential that you consult an therapist to instruct you in the correct technique for propelling your chair so that you can experience the benefits without risking injury.
Contrary to a transit wheelchair, which has small rear wheels and the occupant cannot move themselves, self-propelled chairs have larger rear wheels fitted with push rims that allow the user to steer their chair independently. They are more suitable for outdoor usage as they can be adapted to different kinds of terrains, and can even go up and over small curbs.
The study involved 15 healthy adults with mobility issues. Participants were assessed in three different scenarios that included straight forward (15 meters), an slalom (nine cones that were arranged and separated by decreasing distances) as well as an agility test. Participants were asked to push their wheelchairs on each of these trials and then to complete the Perceived Exercise Questionnaire. Oxygen consumption, lung breathing and heart rate were monitored continuously using a portable oxygen analyzer (Cateye Cycle Computer VELO 8; Osaka, Japan) during the propulsion trials as well as resting periods.
The results revealed that an electric wheelchair was less efficient in navigating difficult terrain than a self-propelled wheelchair. This is due to the large rear wheels equipped with push rims which permit the user to move their wheelchair with greater speed and precision. In addition, the lightweight design of these chairs means they can be moved and stored with minimal effort.
Fitness gains
The most suitable wheelchairs for people with mobility impairments can be self-propelled, because they permit the user to move themselves without requiring someone else to push them. This allows you to keep or even regain your independence which could give you a fresh perspective on life. You can use your wheelchair in a variety situations and are not limited to indoor areas.
Contrary to transit wheelchairs (which have tiny rear wheels and are only movable by pushing), self propelled chairs have larger rear wheels as well as pushing handles that the user can reach to propel themselves. This means that you are able to go further on your own, which can assist in improving your fitness and health.
This is crucial for those who have long-term mobility problems, as excessive stress on the upper body can result in injuries and pain, preventing people from participating in physical activities and resulting in a sedentary lifestyle, which can have further complications for their health. Utilizing a self-propelled chair can help reduce the amount of stress placed on the upper body, and can help prevent problems like this.
Additionally, My Mobility Scooters can be designed with motorized add-ons that can provide assistance with moving forward. This decreases the effort by the user and enables them to save their energy for other uses. This is especially beneficial for those who have trouble maneuvering on bumpy or uneven surfaces like kerbs and slopes.
All types of manual wheelchairs can be fitted with powered add-ons. Many of them can be controlled via Bluetooth or smartwatches. They are a huge hit with younger users, who are familiar with technology and like the idea of using their smartphones to control their wheelchairs.
Research has revealed that the seat height of manual wheelchairs is an important factor in the cardiorespiratory response and mechanical efficiency in submaximal manual wheelchair propulsion. According to a study, the optimal seat height for this type wheelchair is around 100 degrees. This helps reduce the strain on shoulder muscles. This is particularly important for those with soft tissue injury around the shoulder.
Convenient storage
Many customers who require a wheelchair full-time basis need to think about how they can store it both at home and while traveling. Many manufacturers provide storage solutions that are convenient. For example, the XS2 Self Propelled Wheelchair has swivel front wheels which makes it easy to maneuver in indoor or tight spaces. The wheels are easy to maintain and have puncture-proof tyres for a comfortable ride. The XS2 comes in a variety of seat widths to suit different types of users. The chair comes with two parking brakes for added safety. One brake can be operated while sitting in the chair, and the other one is operated by an attendant.
The weight of the wheelchair is also crucial. While there are some wheelchairs that are lighter however, they may not be suitable for outdoor settings like beaches and national parks. Additionally, some models come with armrests that can be removed to make moving the chair easier.
Self-propelled wheelchairs are primarily used to gain independence and freedom. They allow you to move around without having to depend on others. Some clients report feeling re-energized and have a fresh outlook on life. However, they require some strength in the upper body and it's important to know your limits prior to purchasing one.
Other advantages of a self-propelled chair include being able to maneuver the chair on flat surfaces. Certain chairs can be adjusted to accommodate different levels of ground, but this can only go to a certain extent. If the chair will be utilized outdoors, it might be better to choose a power chair with tyres designed for different terrains.
Some models are designed to be more maneuverable by using a rigid frame. This reduces the energy needed to propel the wheelchair. These kinds of wheelchairs are often lighter than folding chairs as they don't have to contain an extension mechanism to extend the frame.
The rear wheels are larger and fitted with a rim that allows the user to push their chair with their foot. Some customers who prefer to propel their chairs by foot, such as those with hemiparesis, need the rear wheels to be set at a lower elevation to allow them to be able to reach them comfortably.