Manual Wheelchairs
If you decide that you still prefer a manual wheelchair, you have many options to choose from. The most basic is the standard manual wheelchair. This is characterized by a cross-brace frame, footrests that swing away, built-in or removable arm rests, a mid-to-high back support, and handles that allow an assistant to push the wheelchair.
If you are looking for something more user-friendly, you may want to go with a lightweight/sports chair. These chairs that were once used mainly by wheelchair athletes have become a favorite for people of all abilities. Lightweight/sports chairs are a great option for people with good upper body strength. They provide the maximum amount of independence for minimum effort. It should be noted that these wheelchairs are not recommended for overweight or obese individuals because the lightweight frames cause a reduction in user capacity compared to the heavier standard wheelchair.
Due to the varying conditions of wheelchairs users, wheelchair manufacturers have started making specialty chairs to accommodate different needs. These include Hemi chairs, oversized chairs, rugged chairs, one-sided chairs, aerodynamic chairs, and standing chairs.
- Hemi chairs, which are lower to the floor, allow the user to push the chair with their legs.
- Oversized chairs are specially designed to accommodate obese individuals.
- Rugged chairs are equipped to be used outdoors.
- One-sided wheelchairs are chairs that can be pushed with one hand for people who have paralysis on one side of their body.
- Aerodynamic three-wheeled chairs are used in racing events such as marathons.
- Manual chairs that can raise the user into a standing position are helpful for individuals who need to stand for their jobs or for physical therapy purposes.
A folding wheelchair can be folded and transported in the car easily. This is a great wheelchair for those who are going on a day trip in the car or for people who can’t walk as far as they used to, but don’t need to be in a wheelchair all the time. The rear wheels on a folding wheelchair come off to save space and often times the back supports fold down.
Lastly, it is always a good idea to test the efficiency of the wheelchair you are considering purchasing. This can be easily tested. The user can see how far they move in one push on any given surface. Different types of wheelchairs will go different distances depending upon the weight, number of joints, and type of wheels.
Whatever wheelchair you decide on, we recommend you purchase a custom wheelchair seat cushion. This will help improve your posture, comfort and will help reduce the risk of developing pressure sores.
Orbit Medical is one of the top power wheelchair providers in
the United States. We have helped people all over the country improve
their mobility and begin new lives by providing them with the highest
quality mobility products. Most of our satisfied patients have been
able to get their new power wheelchairs at little or no cost to
them because all of our products include:
· Free Insurance Filing
· Free Delivery
· Free In-Home Setup and Training
If you have insurance that covers durable medical equipment, then we may be able to help get an electric wheelchair through your insurance coverage. If you are not sure whether or not you would qualify, request information today and a mobility specialist will call you for a free phone consultation.
We offer electric wheelchairs and powerchairs from leading manufacturers such as Pride Mobility, Invacare, and Drive Medical. Chair models include the Jazzy Select, Jazzy Select 6, Jazzy Select Traveller, Jazzy 614 HD, Merits P710 2VHD and more.
Find out how to qualify for an electric wheelchair by clicking on your state below: