What Is How To Use A Self Propelled Wheelchair And Why You Should Care
What Is How To Use A Self Propelled Wheelchair And Why You Should Care
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How to Use a Self Propelled Wheelchair
Wheelchairs offer mobility and independence for those with limitations in walking. It is important to learn how to move your chair and get a therapist or occupational therapist to train you in this area.
Many people maneuver their wheelchairs by using a method known as "wheelies". This requires the user to have hands large enough to reach across the rims and have strong grip strength to propel them forward.
Seating Position
Self-propelled wheelchairs allow users to travel on their own and not be dependent on others. For many, this is the key to regaining or maintaining their independence. It also reduces the chance of injury for the wheelchair user and those who are around them.
The person using the wheelchair must be comfortable while sitting in the chair. To achieve this, there are many options you can take. First, make sure that the footplates are in the proper position. Lift the latch for the footrests and then move the footrests so they are facing the chair. Make sure that the wheelchair user is able to comfortably place their feet on the footplates and there is even pressure on their feet.
The footrest's height could require lowering, especially for users who are hemiplegic (one side of the body is more affected than the other). The footrests can increase the pressure on the bone of the seat and cause pain and discomfort if they are too high.
A strap for the forehead can help keep the wheelchair user upright particularly for those with weak neck muscles. They can be fitted to wheelchairs with no headrests by a specialist in mobility.
If the wheelchair has armrests, it is important that they are in a proper position so that the wheelchair user can move without hitting them with their arms while they move. To achieve this it is recommended to choose a wheelchair with removable or swing away armrests. In addition, foam inserts could be cut and glued to the armrest's back in order to raise them to a more comfortable level.
A cushion that is well-fitted for a wheelchair is essential, particularly when a person who uses a wheelchair is at high risk for skin breakdown or pressure sores. These are because pressure ulcers are caused by friction between the skin and the surface of the wheelchair. In some cases, skin irritation and blisters can occur when being in one position for a long period of time. Repositioning the wheelchair frequently can reduce the chance of developing pressure ulcers.
Pushing
Self-propelled wheelchairs let users move their wheelchairs on their own without the need for a person to push them. They are easier to maneuver due to their larger rear wheels and push handles. They can travel across many surfaces without fearing of slipping over obstacles or getting stuck.
When you are moving forward with your chair, make sure not to hold the handle too tightly. If you apply too much pressure, it could cause your hands to cramp and reduce the amount of force you can 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 amount of force you can apply.
Keep the front casters clear of debris, such as sticks or rocks. This can make it hard to move your wheelchair as you would expect. It can also lead to a loss in control and/or injury. If the seat-to-floor distance is high, you might be thinking about adding extra padding to the front casters.
When climbing a curb or small step it is recommended you have a person with you to push the wheelchair to provide assistance. If you'd like to do this yourself, you'll require more instruction and practice under the supervision of medical professionals. When you do this, it is important to place the wheelchair directly facing (perpendicular to) the curb or a small step and place the front wheels near the edge of the curb.
When you are pushing up a slope it is crucial to have a clear path ahead of you so that you don't run into other people. You will gain speed quickly if you don't leave enough space in front of you. You could also end up colliding with someone else. To help you avoid this make sure you are aware of those who are around you when you're on a slope. Also, have a carer or friend prepared check here to help you in the event you begin to fall from your wheelchair.
Braking
A self-propelled chair requires the user to operate the braking and guiding actions in a particular manner to ensure that the chair is safe to use. This is particularly crucial when on a slope, as it click here is possible for the centre of gravity to move forward when the braking action is not executed in a controlled manner.
When pushing a wheelchair, ensure that the hand is in the correct position, with the ideal being at ten 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 strength of the shoulder, elbow and wrist joint.
To turn left with a wheelchair to turn left, 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 fitted with anti-tip bars which prevent the chair from tipping in the reverse direction.
Check the user's guide that comes with your wheelchair for the most safe slope your chair is able to traverse. In some instances the wheelchair might need to be dismounted temporarily and operated by hand to negotiate steep slopes. If this is the case it is advised to seek the assistance of someone you know or a family member and follow the instructions in the User Guide.
When negotiating kerb stones it is recommended that you mount and dismount via ramps whenever you are able to. This reduces the pressure on the front and back tyres allowing you to travel faster check here over the kerb. The kerb climber option on many manual wheelchairs can also aid in this process by increasing the climbing capability of the chair by around 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 stop and you can remove the footrests or prepare walking aids prior to exiting the chair.
Steering
When using a self propelled wheelchair the user is accountable for steering and controlling. There are a variety of ways to do this, depending on the wheelchair structure and the additions click here like armrests or phone/drink holders. Wheelchairs are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. The size of the front casters on a wheelchair will determine the terrain it can handle. Small casters enable wheelchairs to move more quickly, but it can be difficult with rough surfaces such as cobblestone or grass. Large casters allow wheelchairs to move over 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 using both hands to maintain momentum. This can be done by gripping the handrims while pushing them with both hands. The hands should not be wrapped around the hand rims, as this can cause injuries and could cause over-corrections (fish-tailing) when the chair turns a corner. It is recommended that the wheelchair user experiment with leaning forward and backward to different levels in order to find an optimal balance between lean and control.
For more difficult or challenging terrain, the wheelchair user should plan ahead and anticipate obstacles. It is essential that the user of the wheelchair look over their shoulders frequently to avoid hitting objects or other people. Likewise, if they are travelling with an adult, they should make sure that they are prepared to assist when needed. If the wheelchair is to be used on an inclined slope, it must be assisted or driven by an adult until the user has gained experience with this.
To turn, the wheelchair user pulls one hand's rim back while pushing the other forwards. It is best to practice on a flat, smooth surface prior to moving onto other surface. The motion could be uncomfortable and the wheelchair may fall over if not mastered. The power wheels of the wheelchair can help reduce the pressure on the user, and help with turning. It is essential to be aware that strangers who are not trained will often push a wheelchair user against their will. The wheelchair user must cover the best self-propelled wheelchair handles or fold them back.