How to Use a Self Propelled Wheelchair
Wheelchairs provide mobility and independence to people with limited walking ability. It is crucial to learn how to maneuver your chair and to consult with a therapist or occupational doctor to teach you how to use it.
Many people move their wheelchairs using a technique known as "wheelies". The user must have big hands to be able extend the rims of the wheelchair, and have enough grip strength to propel it forward.
Seating Position
Self-propelled wheelchairs allow you to be able to move on your own and not depend on others. For many it is the only way to getting back or maintaining their independence. It also reduces the chance of injury for both the person who is using the wheelchair and those around them.
It is important that the seat position is comfortable for the wheelchair user. There are several ways to make sure this is the case. First, make sure that the footplates are in the correct position. Release the footrest catch and then swing them to ensure they are in front of the chair. Make sure that the wheelchair's feet are seated comfortably on the footplates.
It may be necessary to lower the height of the footrest particularly if the person is hemiplegic. The footrests may increase the pressure on the bone of the seat and cause discomfort and pain if they are too high.
A forehead strap can be used to help keep the wheelchair user upright particularly for those with neck muscles that are weak. These can be fitted to wheelchairs without headrests by a professional in mobility.
It is essential that if the wheelchair comes with armrests, they are in an appropriate position so that the user of the wheelchair doesn't strike them with their arms when they move. To ensure this it is recommended to use wheelchairs with removable or swing away armrests. Alternatively, foam inserts can be cut and put on the back of the armrest in order to raise them to a more comfortable position.
It is also crucial that the wheelchair has a comfortable cushion, particularly if the wheelchair user has a high risk of skin breakdown, or pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers occur when the skin rubs against surface of the wheelchair. In some instances, skin irritation and blisters can develop when being in one position for a long time. To decrease the chance of developing pressure ulcers, the wheelchair should be repositioned frequently.
Pushing
Self-propelled wheelchairs allow users to move themselves independently and without the need of someone to push them. They are much more maneuverable than other wheelchairs since they have bigger rear wheels and pushing handles fitted on their sides. They can be used across various surfaces without having to worry about slipping over obstacles or getting stuck.
When you are moving forward with your chair, make sure not to hold the handle too tightly. Using too much pressure could cause your hands to become cramped and reduce the force you can apply. You could also consider using wheelchair gloves or handrim covers that have grip materials in the palms. This will improve your hand position and increase the amount of force you can apply.
It is important to keep the front casters clear of any debris like sticks and rocks. If the casters are encased with this kind of material, it can make it difficult to move as you would from your wheelchair and could lead to a loss of control and/or injury. If you have a high seat to floor height, it could be beneficial to purchase extra padding on the front casters.
It is recommended that a caregiver push the wheelchair to help you climb a steep hill or a small step. If you are planning to do this independently, more training and experience is required under the supervision of a health professional. It is important to position the wheelchair perpendicularly (directly) facing the curb or with small steps and set the front tires just before the edge.
It is crucial to have enough space in front of you when pushing up an uphill. This will stop you from crashing into other people. If you don't have enough space ahead of you, you'll accelerate quickly and may be struck by other people. You can prevent this from happening by being aware of other people in the vicinity when you are on the slope. Also, make sure you have an adult or caregiver available to assist you in case you fall off your wheelchair.
Braking
To ensure that the wheelchair is safe the user must use the braking and steering actions in a certain way. This is particularly crucial when on a slope, as it is possible for the chair's center of gravity to shift forward when the braking action is not performed in a controlled manner.
When pushing a wheelchair, make sure that the hand is placed in the right position, ideally at 10 o'clock (10:00) on the wheel, and then releasing at two hours (2:00). This will ensure that the majority (or weight) of the body is placed over the rear wheels, and make it easier to push. It also helps maintain the integrity of the shoulder wrist, elbow and elbow joint.
To turn right in a wheelchair move forward on the right hand rim and pull back on the left hand rim. This causes the wheelchair to turn left and allow you to remain in your chair. find out here now are also equipped with anti-tip bars to stop the wheelchair from tipping over in the reverse direction.
Always read the user's guide that comes with your chair to determine the maximum safe slope that your chair can traverse. In some cases, the wheelchair may have to be removed temporarily and operated by hand to climb steep slopes. If this happens, it is recommended that you seek help from a friend or relative and follow the steps outlined in the User Guide.
It is recommended to use ramps when you are negotiating kerbstones. This will reduce the pressure on the front and back tyres, allowing you to move faster over the kerb. Many manual wheelchairs have an option to climb the kerb that can help with this process. It improves the ability of the wheelchair to climb by 10cm (4")
To stop a wheelchair, move the joystick to the side to de-clutch the motor and then release it gently brakes. The wheelchair will come to a stop, enabling you to remove the footrests, prepare walking aids, and then safely leave the chair.
Steering
The user is responsible for steering and controlling the wheelchair. There are many ways to accomplish this depending on the wheelchair's structure and accessories like armrests or phone/drink holders. Wheelchairs come in a variety sizes and shapes. The size of a wheelchair's front casters can determine the terrain it will handle. Small casters permit wheelchairs to move more quickly, but it can be difficult on rough surfaces such as grass or cobblestone. Large casters let a wheelchair travel over rough surfaces, but it isn't as fast.
On smooth and level surfaces the wheelchair user should push the wheels with both hands to keep the momentum. This is done by gripping the hand rims and pushing evenly with each hand. The hands should not be encased around the rims of your hand as this could cause injuries and lead to over-corrections (fish-tailing) when the chair makes a turn. It is recommended that wheelchair users test with different levels of leaning backwards and forwards to find the optimal balance between control and lean.
The person using a wheelchair must anticipate obstacles and prepare for terrain that is more challenging. The wheelchair user must look over both shoulders to avoid running into objects or other people. If they travel with a caregiver, they must be prepared to assist when required. If the wheelchair is to be used on a slope, it should be assisted or driven by an adult until the user has gained experience with this.
To turn to turn, the user pulls one hand rim back while pushing the other hand forwards. The wheelchair user should practice this on smooth and level ground prior to attempting it on other surfaces, as the motion may be uncomfortable and the chair could easily slide over if the technique isn't mastered. The power wheels on the wheelchair can ease the burden on the user and help with turning. It is essential to be aware that untrained people tend to push a wheelchair user against their will. The wheelchair user must cover the handles or fold them back.