How to Use a Self Propelled Wheelchair
Wheelchairs offer independence and mobility for those who have difficulty walking. It is essential to master the use of your wheelchair, and have an occupational therapist or doctor help you with this.
Wheelies are a very popular method for moving a wheelchair. This requires the client to have large hands to reach across the rims and good grip strength to propel forward.
Seating Position
Self propelled wheelchairs allow you to move independently and not rely on others. This is the most important factor for many people to regain their independence, or keeping it. It also lowers the risk of injury for the wheelchair user as well as those around them.
It is crucial that the seating position of the chair is comfortable for the wheelchair user. To achieve this, there are a few ways to go about it. First, make sure that the footplates are in the correct position. Release the footrest catch and then swing them around until they are in front of the chair. Make sure the wheelchair user is able to comfortably place their feet on the footplates and that there is enough pressure under their feet.
The height of the footrest may require lowering, especially for users who are hemiplegic (one side of the body is more affected than the other). If the footrests are too high they can cause increased pressure on the seat bones and cause pain and discomfort.
A forehead strap can help the wheelchair user stay upright, especially if the neck muscles are weak. They can be fitted to wheelchairs that do not have headrests by a professional in mobility.
It is essential that if the chair has armrests, they are in the correct position so that the wheelchair user doesn't hit them with their arms when they move. It is recommended to use a wheelchair with swing-away or movable armrests for this purpose. You can also attach foam inserts to the back of armrests in order to raise them to the desired height.
It is also important that the wheelchair has a well-fitting cushion, especially if the wheelchair user is at a high chance of skin breakdown or pressure ulcers. These are because pressure ulcers result from friction between the skin and the surfaces of the wheelchair. In some instances, skin irritation and blisters can occur when being in one position for a long time. To decrease the chance of pressure ulcers, the wheelchair should be repositioned frequently.
Pushing
Self-propelled wheelchairs permit users to move on their own and eliminate the need for a third party to push them. They are easier to maneuver because they are equipped with larger rear wheels and push handles. They can be used on a variety of surfaces, without having to worry about slipping over obstacles or getting stuck.
Be careful not to grip the chair handle too tightly as you move forward. Applying too much pressure can cause your hands to cramp and decrease the force you can apply. You might also find it helpful to wear a handrim protector or wheelchair gloves that have grip material that is built into the palms. This will improve the positioning of your hands and increase the force you use.
Keep the front casters free of any debris, like rocks or sticks. If the casters are covered with this type of material, it may make it difficult to move as you would expect from your wheelchair, and could cause a loss of control or even injury. If the seat-to-floor distance is very high, you may think about adding extra padding to the front casters.
It is recommended that a caregiver pushes the wheelchair to help you climb a curb or just a tiny step. If you wish to attempt this independently, more training and practice is required under the supervision of a health professional. When you are doing this, it is crucial to place the wheelchair directly in front of (perpendicular to) the curb or a small step and then place the front wheels close to the curb's edge.
When you are pushing up a slope, it is essential to have a clear path ahead of you so that you don't cross paths with other people. You'll gain speed quickly in the event that you don't leave enough space in front of you. You may also collide with someone else. To prevent this from happening take care to be aware of those in the vicinity when you are on a slope and have a caregiver or a friend ready to catch you in the event that you begin to fall off your wheelchair.
Braking
A self propelled wheelchair requires the user to control the braking and controlling actions in a certain way to ensure that the chair is safe to use. This is especially important when on a slope, as it is possible for the center of gravity to move forward if the braking action is not applied in a controlled manner.
Always ensure that your hand is in the proper position when pushing a wheelchair. Ideally you should put it at 10 o'clock (10:00) on the wheel. Release the hand near 2 o’clock (2:00). This will ensure that the majority (or weight) of the body is over the rear wheels, making it easier to push. It also helps keep the strength of the elbow, shoulder and wrist joints.
To turn right with a wheelchair, push forward on the right-hand side of the rim and pull the left-hand rim back. This will turn the wheelchair left, allowing you to stay seated. Wheelchairs can also be equipped with anti-tip bars which prevent the chair from tipping forwards.
Consult the user guide that comes with your wheelchair to determine the maximum safe slope your chair can travel. In certain situations the wheelchair may need to be dismounted temporarily and operated with a hand to climb steep slopes. If this is the case, it is advised to 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 minimize the pressure that is required on the front and rear tyres and allow you to travel over the kerb at a faster speed. Many manual wheelchairs come with an option to climb the kerb that can help with this process. It boosts the capacity of the wheelchair to climb by around 10cm (4")
To stop a wheelchair, move the joystick inward towards you to release the motor, and then gently release the brakes. The wheelchair will then come to a halt and allow you to take off the footrests, set up walking aids, and then safely exit the chair.
Steering
When using a self-propelled wheelchair, the user is responsible for steering and controlling the. This can be accomplished in a variety of ways, depending on the wheelchair's structure and any add-ons like armrests or phone or drink holders. Wheelchairs come in a variety of sizes and shapes. The size of the front casters, as an example, can decide the type of terrain a wheelchair can be able to handle. Small casters can help a wheelchair move faster, but they struggle on rough surfaces such as grass or cobblestone. Large casters allow wheelchairs to glide over these rough surfaces but the chair will not be as quick.
On smooth and level surfaces on level, smooth surfaces, the wheelchair user must push the wheels with both hands to maintain the momentum. This can be done by gripping the handrims and pushing them with both hands. Hands shouldn't be wrapped tightly around the hand rims since this can cause injury and cause over-corrections as the chair turns around. self propelled wheelchairs for sale uk is recommended that wheelchair users test with different levels of leaning backwards and forwards to find the optimal balance between control and lean.
For more difficult or challenging terrain wheelchair users should be prepared and anticipate obstacles. It is crucial that the user of the wheelchair look over both shoulders regularly to avoid hitting objects or other people. Likewise, when they travel with a caregiver, they must ensure that they are ready to help when needed. If the wheelchair is intended to be used on an inclined slope, it must be driven or assisted by an adult until the user is familiar in this.
To turn the wheelchair, the user needs to pull one hand rim inwards while pushing the other rim back. It is recommended to practice on a flat, smooth surface prior to moving onto other surface. The motion can be uncomfortable, and the wheelchair could fall over if not mastered. The power wheels of the wheelchair can help ease the pressure on the user and make turning easier. It is important to be aware that untrained strangers will often force wheelchair users against their will. The user of the wheelchair should cover the handles or fold them inwards.