Quiz: How Much Do You Know About How To Use A Self Propelled Wheelchair?
How to Use a Self Propelled WheelchairWheelchairs provide mobility and independence for those with limited walking ability. It is important to learn how to maneuver your chair and have a doctor/occupational therapist help guide you in this area.
Many people move their wheelchairs by using a method known as "wheelies". This requires the user to have hands large enough to extend these rims, and good grip strength to propel forward.
Seating Position
Like the name suggests, a self propelled wheelchair allows you to move around and not rely on others. This is the primary factor that helps many to regaining their independence or maintaining it. It also reduces the risk of injury for both the wheelchair user as well as those around them.
The person using the wheelchair must be comfortable while sitting in the chair. There are many things that can be done to make sure this is the case. First, the footplates need to be in the correct position. Release the footrest catch, then swing them round so that they are on the front of the chair. Make sure that the wheelchair user is able to comfortably place their feet on the footplates and that there is enough pressure beneath their feet.
It may be necessary to lower the footrest height, especially if the user is hemiplegic. The footrests can increase the pressure on the seat bone and cause discomfort and pain when they are too high.
A strap for the forehead can help keep the user upright in their wheelchair especially if they suffer from weak neck muscles. They can be adapted to wheelchairs without headrests by a professional in mobility.
If the wheelchair has armrests it is crucial to ensure they are in the proper position and that the wheelchair user can move without hitting them with their arms as they move. For this purpose it is recommended to use wheelchairs with swing away or removable armrests. Alternately, foam inserts can be cut and put on the armrest's back in order to raise them to a more comfortable level.
It is also essential that the wheelchair has a well-fitting cushion, particularly if a person using the wheelchair is at a higher chance of skin breakdown or pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers can occur when the skin rubs against surfaces of the wheelchair. In certain instances skin irritation and blisters may occur after being in one position for long periods of time. To decrease the chance of developing pressure ulcers, the wheelchair should be repositioned frequently.
Pushing
Self-propelled wheelchairs allow users to move independently, without the need for a person to push them. They are more maneuverable because they have larger rear wheels and push handles. They can be used on various surfaces without worrying about tripping over obstacles or getting stuck.
Be cautious not to grip the chair handle too tightly as you move forward. Overly pressure could cause your hands to get cramped and limit the amount of force you are able to apply. You could also consider using wheelchair gloves or handrim covers with grip material on the palms. This will help improve your hand position and increase the force you can apply.
Keep the front casters free of debris, such as sticks or rocks. This can make it difficult to move your wheelchair in the way you think. It can cause an impairment in control and/or injuries. If you have a very high seat-to-floor height, it could be beneficial to purchase additional padding for the front casters.
It is recommended that a caregiver push the wheelchair to help you go up a curb or just a tiny step. If you are planning to do this on your own, further training and practice is required under the supervision of a health professional. It is crucial to place the wheelchair perpendicularly (directly) towards the curb or with small steps and set the front tires just before the edge.
When you're pushing up a hill it is important to have a clear area ahead of you to ensure you don't cross paths with other people. If you don't have clear space ahead of you, you will increase speed quickly and might hit other people. You can prevent this from happening by being aware of the people who are around you on the slope. Also, make sure you have an adult or caregiver available to catch you if you start to fall from your wheelchair.
Braking
A self propelled wheelchair requires the user to perform the braking and guiding actions in a particular way to ensure the chair is safe to use. This is particularly crucial when on a slope as it is possible for the center of gravity to move forward if the braking action is not executed in a controlled manner.
When pushing a wheelchair always make sure that the hand is in the correct position, with the ideal being at ten o'clock (10:00) on the wheel and released at read more two clock (2:00). This will ensure that the majority (or weight) of the body is over the rear wheels, and make it easier to push. It also helps to maintain the integrity of the shoulder the elbow, wrist and wrist joint.
To turn right in a wheelchair to turn left, push forward on the right-hand rim, then pull the left-hand rim back. This will turn the wheelchair to the right and allow you to remain seated. Wheelchairs can also be fitted with anti-tip bars to prevent them from tipping backwards.
Always refer to the user guide that comes with your chair to determine the safest slope your chair is able to traverse. In some circumstances the wheelchair may need to be temporarily dismounted and operated by hand to conquer steep gradients. In this instance it is recommended that you ask a family member or family member for assistance and follow the directions in the User Guide.
When website traversing kerb stones, it is recommended that you remove and mount your vehicle using ramps as often as you can. This will minimize the pressure that is required on the rear and front tyres and allow you to move over the kerb at a faster speed. Many manual wheelchairs feature a kerb-climber feature which can aid in this process. It improves the ability of the wheelchair to climb by 10cm (4")
To stop a wheelchair, move the joystick inward towards you to loosen the clutch on the motor and then gently release the brakes. The wheelchair will come to a halt which allows you to remove the footrests, put in walking more info aids and get out of the chair.
Steering
The user is accountable for steering and controlling the wheelchair. This can be accomplished in various ways, depending on the structure of the chair and any additional features such as armrests or phone or drink holders. Wheelchairs vary in design as well as in size and weight. The size of the front casters of a wheelchair can determine the terrain it can handle. Small casters allow a wheelchair to move more quickly, but it can be difficult on rough surfaces here like cobblestone or grass. Large casters can let wheelchairs to travel on here rough surfaces, but they will not be as swift.
On smooth surface that is level, the wheelchair user should push the wheels using both hands to keep the momentum. This can be done by gripping the handrims and pushing with both hands. Hands shouldn't be wrapped tightly around the hand rims since this can cause injury and result in over-corrections when the chair makes in a circle. It is recommended that wheelchair users test with different levels of leaning backwards and forwards to find the best balance between control and lean.
The person using a wheelchair must anticipate obstacles and prepare for more challenging terrain. The wheelchair user should be aware of their shoulders and avoid hitting objects or people. If they travel with a caregiver, they must be ready to help when needed. If the wheelchair will be placed on a slope, the caregiver should assist or drive it until the user is comfortable with the.
To turn the wheelchair, the user has to pull one hand rim inwards while pushing the other rim back. The wheelchair user must practice this on smooth and level ground prior to attempting it on a different surface, as the motion may be uncomfortable and the chair could easily fall over if the motion is not properly mastered. If the wheelchair has power wheels, this can take some of the pressure off the user and makes turning much easier. It is essential to be aware that untrained strangers are often able to force wheelchair users against their will. The wheelchair user should cover the handles or fold them inwards.