How to Use a Self Propelled Wheelchair
Wheelchairs allow mobility and independence for those with limitations in walking. It is essential to master the use of your wheelchair and let a doctor/occupational therapy help you with this.
Wheelies are a common method for moving in a wheelchair. The client must have large hands to be able reach the rims and grip strength to propel it forward.
Seating Position
As the name implies, a self propelled wheelchair allows you to move yourself and not rely on others. This is the primary factor that helps many who want to regain their independence, or keeping it. It also reduces the risk of injury for the person who is using the wheelchair as well as those who are around them.
The wheelchair user must be comfortable in the chair. There are a variety of things that can be done to ensure this. First, make sure that the footplates are in the correct position. Release the footrest catch, then swing them to ensure they are on the front of the chair. Make sure that the wheelchair user's feet are placed comfortably on the footplates.
It could be necessary to lower the height of the footrest, especially if the user is hemiplegic. The footrests may increase the pressure on the bone of the seat and cause discomfort and pain when they are too high.
A forehead strap can aid the wheelchair user in staying upright, especially if their neck muscles are weak. These can be fitted to wheelchairs without headrests by a professional in mobility.
If the wheelchair has armrests, it is essential to ensure that they are in the right position so that the wheelchair user is able to propel without hitting them with their arms when they move. It is best to use the wheelchair with swing-away or movable armrests for this purpose. In addition, foam inserts could be cut and put on the armrest's back to elevate them to a more comfortable position.
A cushion that is well-fitted for a wheelchair is essential, particularly if a wheelchair user is at high risk for skin breakdown or pressure sores. Pressure ulcers occur when the skin rubs against wheelchair surfaces. In some cases blisters and skin irritation may occur after sitting in one position for long periods of time. Repositioning the wheelchair regularly will reduce the risk of pressure ulcers.
Pushing
Self-propelled wheelchairs allow users to move themselves independently and without the need for someone to push them. They are much more maneuverable than other wheelchairs because they have bigger rear wheels and pushing handles that are fitted to their sides. This allows them to move across a range of surfaces without having to worry about slipping or getting stuck on obstacles like curbs or small steps.
Be cautious not to grip the chair handle too tightly as you move forward. Overly pressure could cause your hands to cramp and reduce how much force you are able to apply. You could also consider using wheelchair gloves or handrim covers with grip materials in the palms. This will improve the positioning of your hands and increase the force you apply.
Keep the front casters free of debris, like sticks or rocks. This can make it difficult to move your wheelchair in the way you think. It could also lead to a loss in control and/or injury. If you have a very high seat to floor height, it might be beneficial to purchase extra padding for the front casters.
It is recommended that a caregiver push the wheelchair to assist you go up a curb or just a tiny step. If you wish to attempt this on your own, further training and practice is needed under the supervision of a healthcare professional. It is crucial to place the wheelchair perpendicularly (directly) in front of the curb or small steps and place the front tires just prior to the edge.
When you're pushing up a hill it is crucial to have a clear space ahead of you to ensure that you don't get in the way of other people. You'll gain speed quickly in the event that you don't leave enough space ahead of you. You could also crash with someone else. You can avoid this by being aware of the people around you while on the slope. Also, make sure you have an adult or caregiver available to assist you in case you start to fall from your wheelchair.
Braking
To ensure that the wheelchair is safe the user must use the braking and steering actions in a particular manner. This is especially important when you are on a slope since it is possible for the chair's center of gravity to move forward when the braking action is not applied in a controlled way.
Always make sure that your hand is in the right position when you push a wheelchair. Ideally, you should place it at 10 clock (10:00) on the wheel. Release the hand around 2 o'clock (2:00). This ensures that the bulk of the body weight is over the rear wheels, allowing for the smoothest, easiest push. It also helps to maintain the integrity of the shoulder, elbow and wrist joint.
To turn right in a wheelchair move forward on the right hand rim and then pull back the left hand rim. This causes the wheelchair to turn right and allow you to remain seated in your chair. Wheelchairs are also equipped with anti-tip bars which prevent the chair from tipping forwards.
Refer to self propelled wheelchair with power assist that comes with your wheelchair to determine the most safe slope your chair can travel. In some situations, the wheelchair may need to be temporarily removed and hand operated to overcome steep slopes. In this situation it is recommended that you ask a friend or family member for assistance and follow the steps in the User Guide.
It is recommended to use ramps when you are negotiating kerbstones. This will minimize the pressure that is required on the front and rear tyres, which will allow you to travel over the kerb with greater speed. Many manual wheelchairs feature a kerb-climber feature that can help with this process. It increases the ability of the wheelchair to climb by around 10cm (4")
To stop a wheel chair you need to release the brakes gently and then push the joystick toward you. This will release the clutch motor. The wheelchair will then come to a halt which allows you to remove the footrests, put in walking aids and safely get out of the chair.
Steering
If you are using a self-propelled wheelchair the user is responsible for steering and controlling. This can be accomplished in various ways, depending on the wheelchair's structure and any add-ons like armrests or phone or drink holders. Wheelchairs differ in their structure and size, as well as weight. self propelled wheelchair with power assist of the front casters of a wheelchair can determine the terrain it will handle. Small casters let a chair move faster but they struggle on rough surfaces like grass or cobblestone. Large casters allow a wheelchair to move over rough surfaces but the chair will not be as swift.
The wheelchair user should use both hands on smooth flat surfaces to maintain momentum. This is accomplished by grabbing the rims of the hand and pushing them evenly with each hand. Hands shouldn't be wrapped tightly around the rims of the hand as this can cause injuries and lead to over-corrections when the chair makes a turn. It is recommended that wheelchair users play with various degrees of leaning backwards and forwards to find the optimal balance between control and lean.
The wheelchair user should anticipate obstacles and prepare for more difficult terrain. The wheelchair user must look over both shoulders to avoid hitting objects or people. If they are travelling with a caregiver, they should be ready to help when required. If the wheelchair is going to be used on the slope, it should be pushed or assisted by a caregiver until the user is familiar with this.
To turn, the wheelchair user pulls one hand's rim back while pushing the other hand forwards. It is recommended to practice on a smooth, flat surface prior to moving onto other surface. The motion could be uncomfortable and the wheelchair could slide over if not properly mastered. The power wheels of the wheelchair can ease the burden on the user and also make turning easier. It is also helpful to be aware that good-hearted but untrained people often attempt to push a person who is in wheelchair against their will, therefore the wheelchair user must ensure that their attendant handles fold down or cover them with handles covers.