Self Propelled Wheelchairs
Self-propelled wheelchairs revolutionize mobility by giving users the ability to dictate speed and direction, as well as their destination without the need for an assistant. They can also be customized with a range of accessories to improve comfort and convenience.
From frame materials to seat sizes, there are a number of factors to consider when buying a self propelled chair. Let's look at some of the major ones:
Independence
Losing your independence is a concern when you suffer from mobility issues. It can be upsetting to depend on someone else to get you to your destination or go shopping. Self propelled wheelchairs (also called manual chairs) can assist you to retain or regain your freedom. They are safe and simple to push, so you can go out and about without having to wait for someone else to get you where you need to go.
Self-propelled wheelchairs are equipped with large rear wheels and hand rims that give you the leverage needed to propel yourself forwards and backwards without the need for an accompanying person. They are suitable for more people than you think, particularly those who have good upper body strength. They are also great for anyone who has difficulty walking long distances, or over difficult terrain.
Mobility Shop has a wide selection of self-propelled wheelchairs that will suit all users. There's a variety of wheelchairs, from lightweight and portable models for everyday use to crash-tested and transit wheelchairs for storage and travel. For extra comfort, we also offer various self-propelled reclining wheelchairs.
All of our self-propelled wheelchairs can be purchased on the internet and delivered next day to most addresses in the UK. You can also filter the wheelchairs according to the kind of frame, seat, or features that you need using the search box.
Contact our customer service department if you have any questions about wheelchairs or need help choosing the best model for your requirements. We are always happy to help and can be reached on 01278 764454 or email us at [email protected]. We look forward hearing from you! All rights reserved. (c) 2024 The Mobility Outlet, formerly Webster Wheelchairs. Registered company in England & Wales no 07004640. Registered office: Harben House Harben Parade Finchley Road London NW3 6LH.
Manoeuvrability is easy
Self-propelled wheelchairs are great for those who wish to move freely but have enough strength in their upper bodies to propel the chair. They offer users a fresh lease of life and the ability to control their mobility. They are also ideal for those looking to stay clear of the expense and hassle of powered wheelchairs.
The frame and centre of gravity of a wheelchair are largely responsible for its maneuverability. lightweight self propelled folding wheelchair has shown that a chair that is constructed with the fixed wheels as close to its centre of gravity as possible reduces the force of turning significantly.
It is also crucial to consider the weight of the wheelchair user when determining its manoeuvrability. Heavy chairs have a greater center of gravity, making them more difficult to maneuver. Light chairs however are lighter and have a lower centre of gravity. This makes them more maneuverable and easier to operate.
Modern self-propelled wheelchairs are designed for easy maneuverability as evident in their compact size and light frames. They are extremely customizable, with features such as adjustable backrest angles and seat heights. This lets the user modify their wheelchair to their needs, improving the comfort of users and reducing the risk of pressure ulcers and other discomforts.
Self-propelled wheelchairs are available with a variety of accessories and add ons that can enhance the user's comfort. For instance, a cushion can help to support the user's posture and lessen strain. Additionally, a wheelchair could be fitted with a pressure monitoring system to lower the chance of flat tires.
Self-propelled wheelchairs are also simple to transport and store. Many models have quick-release rear wheels which make it easier to remove the chair footplates and front castors. Many models come with half-folding backrests as well as folding seats making them more convenient to store and transport. They are often fitted with parking brakes that can be operated by the user or their attendant, providing additional safety and convenience.
Customisation
Powered wheelchairs may not be the best option for every individual, and self propelled chairs put control back into the hands of the user. These chairs empower independence by permitting the user to choose their own the pace and direction. They also aid in maintaining muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness.
For active users, these chairs are designed to be versatile and able of handling different situations, from paved roads to steep hills. These wheelchairs are usually lighter than transit chairs and can be folded in small vehicles. They are a useful and practical mobility aid especially for those who live alone or have very little assistance.
The most common frame material is aluminium, but titanium provides greater resistance to fatigue and durability, making it a popular choice for more demanding users. Titanium is known for dampening the vibrations, which is important since moving around can be uncomfortable for some wheelchair users. Some models, such as Ki Mobility's Ethos are specially made to reduce the impact, resulting in a comfortable ride and allowing the user to stay in the control of their chair.
Wheelchair add-ons have become more popular. They range from basic track wheels that lift your front castors up off the ground to provide better off-road traction, through to powered wheels (controlled exactly like the powerchair, but with no batteries) and handbikes such as Triride’s Special Compact, Rehasense’s PAWS City, and the Empulse F55. These features can be customised and allow you to take on more difficult terrains. They also increase the comfort and freedom.
Mobility Shop's lightweight self-propelled chairs have a variety of features to help pick the right wheelchair for you. For example the Lite 2 can be fitted with power assist which allows you to transform the manual wheelchair into a powered model with an attendant control. The power assist can be controlled via a lever on your armrest, or the push handle.
Comfort
There's a wide selection of wheelchairs available which means that finding the right model for your needs could be a bit difficult. You should also discuss your options with a mobility expert or GP to get the best advice for your particular circumstances.
If you have good upper body strength and mobility, self-propelled wheelchairs are a great option for day to day mobility. These types of wheelchairs feature larger rear wheels and an outer 'push-rim' that you can use to move the chair. They also come with the handlebar which can be used to steer and control the chair. Self-propelled chairs are less heavy and more maneuverable than transit models.
Attendant-propelled wheelchairs, on the contrary, are designed to be pushed from behind by an attendant. They have smaller rear wheels, and are much easier to push. However they can be a challenge to maneuver around obstacles such as curbs. They are also typically heavier to fit into the car's boot which is why they're not ideal for transport.
Many organisations offer wheelchair rental on a regular basis for parks and zoos. These are often manual wheelchairs that are light, however it is recommended to reserve them in advance to avoid disappointment. You can also rent wheelchairs for a longer period of time from mobility stores. It is important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding whether to rent a wheelchair or buy your own.
You can also increase your comfort on a self-propelled wheelchair by incorporating additional accessories. Some are useful, such as footplates or storage bags. Others aid in finding an ideal seating position. You can also include seat cushions or headrests to provide additional support and lessen the pressure on your thighs and buttocks.
You can also opt to have your self-propelled wheelchair equipped with brakes for attendants which are vital feature for those who regularly need to be pushed by someone else. Having these fitted will make slowing, stopping and turning much easier, particularly for heavier users.