When buying a wheelchair, wheelchairs users do not feel confined.
What matters when buying a wheelchair? An individual with paralysis can move around as quickly in a wheelchair as anyone else can by walking. Wheelchair offers people the opportunity to work or shop or do other tasks outside their home.
In certain ways, a wheelchair is similar to a bicycle. It comes in various designs as well as styles to select from, including lightweights, power models, recliners, bariatric, ergonomic, etc.
With so many options available in the market, selecting the right wheelchair, especially for a first-time wheelchair user, can be quite confusing.
If the fit is not right, the user cannot get comfortable and will not be able to achieve maximum function out of it.
How To Choose a Wheelchair?
Therefore, it is always a great idea to ask an occupational therapist (OT) who has adequate experience with several kinds of wheelchairs.
This ultimate wheelchair buying guide for 2021 offers insight into the wheelchair purchasing process, along with highlighting the most popular wheelchair models and how to decide which wheelchair is the right fit for you.
Best Wheelchairs Buying Guide 2020
When picking out a Wheelchair, there are many aspects to take into account, for instance, the propulsion method, wheelchair type, mechanism of control, and most importantly, the technology used.
Wheelchair Propulsion Method
Mainly there are two types of propulsion mechanisms, and they are:
Self-Propel Wheelchairs:
These are made with Larger Rear Wheels, front casters as well as hand rims. The patients use them to move without any assistance. The larger rear wheels make it easier to move over the grass or other rough terrains.
In addition, unlike the Self-Propel Wheelchairs, these have smaller wheels, and they rely on the user being pushed around with assistance.
They are used in Nursing Homes, Hospitals as well as Airlines.
Their lightweight, along with the presence of ‘Attendant Brakes’, allows the carer to move the wheelchair easily down the speed hills or lock it for safety when needed.
Transit Wheelchairs:
Wheelchair Types & Weight
Weight is one of the most crucial factors to take into account when purchasing a wheelchair.
It has a direct impact on transporting the chair with safe lifting.
Lightweight Wheelchairs:
These weigh about 26 to 40 lbs and are available in both self-propel as well as transit models for use.
These are priced economically to suit all budgets.
Ultra-Lightweight Wheelchairs:
These are lighter in weight, around 13 to 29lbs, and are easier to move.
They are also available in both self-propel as well as transit models.
Furthermore, these are designed for Bariatric users, these wheelchairs are made of durable metals such as steel, and they weigh around 30 to 65lbs.
Heavy Duty Wheelchairs:
Recline Wheelchairs:
These can change the patient’s orientation in the wheelchair and allow them to lie at their back.
They are designed in a way to maintain a wide range of motions and to prevent blisters, help in the management of spasticity while increasing the sitting tolerance.
How to Choose the Right Size of Wheelchair?
Furthermore, choosing the appropriate size wheelchairs plays a crucial role in both the comfort as well as the propulsion bio-mechanisms of the Wheelchair.
In addition, there are various factors to take into account, such as Seat width, Depth, height, Backrest, and armrest.
Impact of Seat Width of Wheelchair
The seat width of the wheelchair impacts the comfort along with the performance of the wheelchair.
The seat width should be wide enough to provide appropriate weight distribution.
It should also be narrow enough to allow for the easy manipulation of your wheelchair.
In addition, if the seat of the wheelchair is too wide, then it will lead to unasked for position changes and poor posture.
This makes it quite difficult to access the wheels which ultimately increases the risk of getting an injury.
Furthermore, if the seat of the wheelchair is too narrow, it is going to be less stable as well as less comfortable to maneuver.
Seat Depth Importance of the Wheelchair
Seat Depth of the wheelchair is just as important as the width for comfort as well as biomechanics of the wheelchair. Don't forget this when buying a wheelchair.
If the seat is too short, it will end up overloading the buttocks and will thus increase the pressure care risks, which will affect the maneuverability by putting too much weight on the castors.
Vice versa, if the seat is too deep, it will put pressure behind the knees, which will lead to a slumped posture, and that can affect the pressure care along with the propulsion of the wheelchair.
Impact of the Leg Length of Wheelchair
The wheelchair’s leg length of the wheelchair establishes the adequate height of the footplates, which will let part of the bodyweight be taken by the feet.
Seat Height Importance of the Wheelchair
The seat should be high enough to take the weight off the feet of the user, but at the same time also low enough to fit under the table comfortably.
When considering the Seat Height you should also consider the height of the cushion that you will be using.
Importance of the Height of Wheelchair Backrest
The height of the backrest is dependent on the degree of disability.
Ideally, a backrest that provides appropriate tension for a well-seated position and also provides freedom of movement is a good choice.
For people with postural concerns, a higher backrest with increased stability can be a good fit.
Whereas, for users looking for additional arm freedom, a lower backrest is a great option.
Additional Features
Armrest Height: You should be able to rest your forearms comfortably.
Footrest Length: It should not extend too far to become an obstacle.
Our Popular Models for buying a wheelchair
Here are some of our Best Selling Wheelchairs:
Product Description
The Tranzit Go has been inspired by the other lightweight wheelchairs in the market. Actually, it's easily foldable as well as transportable.
It is designed to improve the lives of wheelchair users globally. It is one of the lightest weight folding power wheelchairs, weighing only 56 lbs.
This wheelchair promotes independence along with mobility as well as comfort. It is perfect for both outdoor as well as indoor navigation.
Pros:● Easy to use Joystick● Folding and Lightweight Frame
Cons:● Not suitable for every terrain
Product Description
The T-2000 Series by Karman Healthcare is equipped with a Velcro mount leg strap along with fixed full-length armrests. Furthermore, it is a lightweight, compact transport wheelchair with an easily foldable frame for easy traveling as well as storage. It weighs only 23 lbs along with the footrest.
Moreover, the breathable porous nylon upholstery is of high-grade, flame retardant, and also easy to clean. This transport chair provides seat width options, and it has a weight capacity of 250 lbs.
Product Description
The Karman S-Ergo 305 wheelchair provides commendable quality at a far more competitive rate than others in the market.
The weight of the wheelchair is only 29 lbs, and it has a 250-lb weight capacity. This wheelchair comes in 16″ as well as 18″ seat widths.
It is equipped with features such as instant wheels release as well as an adjustable armrest.
With the S-305 you get access to simple and key adjustable options.
Parting Words
At Karman Healthcare we believe that there is no one size fits all wheelchairs, and it depends on the personal circumstances as well as the needs of the users.
However, having to feel free to contact us if you require any assistance with choosing a wheelchair, and our helpful staff will get back to you with appropriate recommendations.
Our 2021 award of the year for best video on wheelchair section guide goes to Ken @ Left Legged Warrior