How to Use a Self Propelled Wheelchair
Wheelchairs allow mobility and independence for those with limited walking ability. It is important to learn how to maneuver your chair and to have a doctor/occupational therapist help teach you how to use it.
Wheelies are a very popular method to move in a wheelchair. This requires the client to have large hands to extend these rims, and good grip strength to propel forward.
Seating Position
As the name implies, a self propelled wheelchair lets you move your body and not rely on others. This is the primary factor that helps many people to regain their independence, or keeping it. Recommended Internet page reduces the chance of injury to both the wheelchair user and others who are around them.
It is important that the seat position is comfortable for wheelchair users. To ensure this, there are several ways to go about it. First, the footplates must be in the correct place. Lift the latch for the footrests and move the footrests to place them directly in front of the chair. Make sure that the wheelchair user is able to comfortably place their feet on the footplates and that there is even pressure under their feet.
The height of the footrest may require to be reduced, particularly for those who are hemiplegic (one side of the body is more affected than the other). If the footrests aren't high enough, they can put pressure on the spine and cause pain and discomfort.
A forehead strap can help keep the user of a wheelchair upright, particularly if they have neck muscles that are weak. They can be fitted by a mobility expert and can be used with wheelchairs that don't include headrests.
It is important that if the wheelchair has armrests that they are in the correct position to ensure that the wheelchair user isn't able to strike them with their arms when they move. To achieve this, it is best to choose a wheelchair with armrests that can be removed or swivel away. In addition, foam inserts could be cut and put on the armrest's back to raise them up to a more comfortable position.
It is also crucial that the wheelchair has a properly-fitting cushion, particularly if the wheelchair user has a high risk of skin breakdown, or pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers occur when the skin rubs against the wheelchair surfaces. In some instances, skin irritation and blisters can occur when being in one position for a long period of time. Repositioning the chair regularly can reduce the chance of developing pressure ulcers.
Pushing
Self-propelled wheelchairs allow users to move themselves and eliminate the need for someone else to push them. They are more maneuverable because they have larger rear wheels and push handles. They can travel on many 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. If you apply too much pressure, it could cause your hands to cramp and reduce the force you can apply. It may also be beneficial to use a handrim cover or wheelchair gloves with grip material that is built into the palms. This will help improve the position of your hands and increase the force you use.
It is essential to keep the front casters clear of any debris, such as sticks and rocks. If the casters have been covered with this type of material, it may make it difficult to move in the manner you would from your wheelchair and can result in an uncontrolled movement or even injury. If you have a very high seat-to-floor height, it could be beneficial to put some extra padding on the front casters.
If you are climbing a curb or small step it is recommended that you use a caregiver to push the wheelchair to provide assistance. If you want to do this on your own, you'll require additional training and experience under the supervision of an expert in health care. It is crucial to place the wheelchair perpendicularly (directly) facing the curb or with small steps and set the front tires just before the edge.
When you are pushing up a slope it is crucial to have a clear path ahead of you to ensure you don't get in the way of other people. If you don't have a clear space ahead of you, you will increase speed quickly and could hit other people. You can avoid this by staying aware of people who are around you on the slope. Also, have someone with you to catch you if you begin to fall from your wheelchair.
Braking
To ensure that the wheelchair is safe the user must use the braking and steering actions in a certain manner. This is particularly crucial when the chair is situated on an inclined slope, since the center of gravity could move forward if brakes are not performed in a controlled manner.
Always ensure that your hand is in the proper position when pushing a wheelchair. Ideally you should position it at 10 o'clock (10:00) on the wheel. Release the hand at 2 o'clock (2:00). This ensures that the bulk of the body weight remains over the rear wheels and allows for the smoothest, most effortless push. It also helps to keep the strength of the shoulder, elbow 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 to the right so that you can remain in a seated position. Wheelchairs are also available with anti-tip bars to prevent them from tipping backwards.
Check the user's guide that is included with your wheelchair to determine the maximum safe slope your chair is able to traverse. In some situations, the wheelchair may have to be temporarily removed and operated by hand to get over steep slopes. In this situation it is recommended that you ask a family member or family member for assistance and follow the instructions in the User Guide.
It is recommended to use ramps while negotiating the kerbstones. This will reduce the pressure on the back and front tyres allowing you to travel faster over the kerb. Many manual wheelchairs feature a kerb-climber option that can help with this process. It boosts the ability of the wheelchair to climb by 10cm (4")
To stop a wheelchair, push the joystick to the side to release the motor, and then gently release the brakes. The wheelchair will then come to a stop and allow you to take off the footrests, set up walking aids, and then safely get out of the chair.
Steering
The user is accountable for steering and controlling the wheelchair. There are a variety of ways to do this, dependent on the structure of the wheelchair and add-ons such as armrests, phone/drink holders or even a drink holder. Wheelchairs differ in their structure as well as in size and weight. The size of the front casters, for example can determine the kind of terrain a wheelchair can manage. Small casters permit wheelchairs to move faster but struggle on rough surfaces such as cobblestone or grass. Large casters permit wheelchairs to travel over these rough surfaces, but the chair won't be as quick.
On smooth, level surfaces the wheelchair user should push the wheels using both hands to maintain the momentum. You can do this by gripping the rims of the hand and pushing with both hands. The hands shouldn't be wrapped around the rims of the hand as this could cause injury and can lead to over-corrections (fish-tailing) when the chair turns. It is also advised that the wheelchair user test leaning back and forward to different extents in order to find an optimal balance between leaning and control.
The person using a wheelchair must anticipate obstacles and plan ahead for more challenging terrain. It is essential that the user of the wheelchair looks over their shoulders frequently to prevent running into objects or other people. Likewise, if they are travelling with an adult, they should make sure that they are prepared to assist if required. If the wheelchair is intended to be used on the slope, it should be driven or assisted by an adult until the user has gained experience with this.
To turn the wheelchair, the user needs to pull one hand rim inwards while pushing the opposite rim back. It is recommended to practice on a flat, smooth surface prior to moving onto other surface. The movement can be uncomfortable, and the wheelchair could fall over if not properly mastered. The wheelchair's power wheels can help reduce the pressure on the user, and help with turning. It is crucial to be aware that untrained people tend to force wheelchair users against their will. The wheelchair user must cover the handles or fold them inwards.