If you find yourself buying a wheelchair, you should know that it is not always an easy choice. The material, the size, or the patient’s needs are characteristics you should consider when deciding. Since the wheelchair will allow access to any situation and circumstance of daily life, this choice is critical.
Next, at FastlyHeal, we explain choosing a wheelchair and the best accessories for wheelchairs.
Table of Contents
Chair material
One of the most critical aspects when choosing a wheelchair is finding suitable material. Depending on each material, not only will the chair be oriented to solve some or other needs, but also its price will vary. We can distinguish between 3 basic materials:
- Aluminum chair. Therefore, it is the lightest material and the most diminutive heavy chair. Consequently, it is a perfect chair to handle it autonomously and with help.
- Low-density steel chair. It is light steel because there is a lower density and, in addition, the tubes are thinner, so the weight decreases. It is a perfect chair for those who do not require daily transport.
- Steel chair. It is the heaviest and most robust typology, so it is recommended for limited or home use. It is a more durable type, and resistant to shocks and transport since steel is more potent than other materials.
Chair size
The size of the chair is an aspect to take into account when purchasing one, especially if we want the patient to feel comfortable in it. In this sense, we must consider its weight and size to make the chair as comfortable as possible. That is to say: for smaller people, you can opt for chairs that are 40 centimeters wide, greater width for people of greater weight, or bariatric chairs with special widths for people with obesity. On the other hand, adaptability is essential, so the chair is recommended to be too narrow or broad.
The general rule is that the chair has an inch or two more on each side of the user’s hip width. In this way, we will have some space to wear warm clothes.
Wheels size
One of the wheelchair accessories that we must bear in mind is the wheels, which, along with the size of the chair, are one of the essential characteristics. In this sense, it is necessary to know that the size of the wheel is directly related to the type of chair and the user’s autonomy. That is, you should not bet so much on the aesthetics of the revolution but on the self-management of the person who will carry it.
In cases where the user has enough strength to move by himself. If the chair needs to be pushed by another person, the small wheels are more suitable. The small wheels are also ideal for chairs designed for domestic use.
As for the tires, you should remember that small rubber wheels and oversized tires are recommended for chairs for home use. It is better for chairs for outdoor use to use pneumatic wheels, as they have more excellent cushioning or solid anti-puncture.
Currently, the market offers the option of ultralight electric chairs that allow more excellent propulsion outdoors with compact and manageable wheels designed to facilitate the mobility and autonomy of the user.
Armrest type
Generally, it is a removable accessory to facilitate access to the user and, in addition, it helps him to move in narrower spaces, such as between furniture. The armrest facilitates the day-to-day, so it is essential to bet on adjustable and adjustable types to facilitate daily movement. Also, you can find different types taking into account the number of hours of use of the chair, from the simplest to the complete ones that, in addition to ensuring comfort, will also prevent neck and shoulder pain and other possible injuries.
The word of a professional
While there are various solutions for wheelchairs, it is essential to consider a professional’s opinion before buying in particular. The objective is to improve the person’s well-being who requires a chair, so orthopedic specialists must guide you to bet on the option best suits the patient’s needs. If in doubt, consult your doctor.
This article is merely informative; at FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any condition or discomfort.
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I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.