10 Life Lessons We Can Learn From How To Use A Self Propelled Wheelchair
10 Life Lessons We Can Learn From How To Use A Self Propelled Wheelchair
Blog Article
How to Use a Self Propelled Wheelchair
Wheelchairs allow mobility and independence for those who have difficulty walking. It is crucial to learn how to maneuver your chair and to have a doctor/occupational therapist help train you in this area.
Many people move their wheelchairs using a technique known as "wheelies". This requires the user to have large hands to span these rims and good grip strength to propel them forward.
Seating Position
As the name suggests self-propelled wheelchairs lets you move your body and not rely on others. This is the most important factor for many to regaining their independence or maintaining it. It also reduces the risk of injury to both the wheelchair user and others around them.
It is crucial that the seat position is comfortable for the wheelchair user. There are several ways to make sure this is the case. First, ensure that the footplates are in the right position. Release the footrest catch, then swing them to ensure they are at the front of the chair. Make sure that the wheelchair user can comfortably place their feet on the footplates and there is pressure beneath their feet.
It could be necessary to lower the footrest height especially if the person is hemiplegic. The footrests can put the pressure on the bone of the seat and cause discomfort and pain in the event that they are too high.
A forehead strap can assist the wheelchair user to stay straight, particularly if their neck muscles are weak. They can be fitted to wheelchairs that do not have headrests by a mobility expert.
If the wheelchair has armrests it is important to ensure that they are in the proper position and that the user of the wheelchair can move without hitting them with their arms when they move. It is best to use the wheelchair with swing-away or movable armrests to accomplish this. You can also add foam inserts to the back of armrests to raise them up to the desired height.
A well-fitting wheelchair cushion is essential, particularly when a person who uses a wheelchair is at risk of skin breakdown or pressure sores. Pressure ulcers can occur when the skin rubs against the wheelchair surfaces. In certain instances the skin may become irritated and raw from sitting in the same position for a prolonged period of time. This can also cause blisters. Repositioning the wheelchair regularly will reduce the risk of developing pressure ulcers.
Pushing
Self-propelled wheelchairs permit users to move themselves and eliminate the need for a third party to push them. They are more maneuverable due to their larger rear wheels and push handles. They can be used across a variety of surfaces, without worrying about tripping over obstacles or getting stuck.
Be careful not to grip your chair handle too tightly when you move forward. Overly pressure can cause your hands to cramp and reduce how much force you are able to apply. You can also use wheelchair gloves or handrim covers that have grip material on the palms. This will help improve the position of your hands and increase the force you apply.
Keep the front casters free of any debris, like sticks or rocks. This material could make it hard to move your wheelchair as you would expect. It can also lead to a loss in control and/or injuries. If you have a very high seat to floor height, it could be beneficial to put some extra padding on the front casters.
When going up a small step or curb it is recommended you enlist the help of a caregiver to push the wheelchair to provide assistance. If you want to try this on your own, additional training and experience is required under the supervision of a health professional. When doing this, it is crucial to place the wheelchair directly facing (perpendicular to) the curb or small step and place the front wheels electric self propelled wheelchair near the edge of the curb.
When you are pushing up a slope it is crucial to have a clear space ahead of you so that you don't get in the way of other people. You'll speed up quickly in the event that you don't leave enough space ahead of you. You may also collide with someone else. To avoid this take care to be aware of people who are around you when you're on a slope. You should also have a friend or carer waiting to catch you in the event you begin to fall out of your wheelchair.
Braking
A self-propelled wheelchair requires the user to operate the braking and controlling actions in a certain way to ensure the chair is safe to use. This is especially important when the chair is placed on an inclined slope, since the centre of gravity can be pushed forward if the brakes are not performed in a controlled way.
Always make sure your hand is in the proper position when you push a wheelchair. Ideally you should position it at 10 clock (10:00) check here on the wheel. Release the hand near 2 o’clock (2:00). This will ensure that the majority (or weight) of the body is on the rear wheels, which makes it easier to push. It also helps to maintain the integrity of the shoulder the elbow, wrist and wrist joint.
To turn right in a wheelchair, move forward on the right hand rim, then pull back on the left rim. This will turn the wheelchair right and allow you to remain sitting. Wheelchairs can also be fitted with anti-tip bars to stop the wheelchair from tipping backwards.
Always read the user's guide that comes with your wheelchair to confirm the safest slope your chair can traverse. In certain situations, the wheelchair may have to be dismounted temporarily and operated by hand to negotiate steep slopes. If this happens, it is recommended that you seek help from a friend or relative and follow the steps outlined website in the User Guide.
It is recommended to use ramps when you are negotiating the kerbstones. This reduces the pressure on the front and back tyres allowing you to travel faster over the kerb. Many manual wheelchairs have a kerb-climber option that can assist in this process. It improves the wheelchair's climbing ability by 10cm (4")
To stop a wheelchair, move the joystick to the side to release the motor, and then gently release the brakes. The wheelchair will stop and you can take off the footrests and prepare walking aids before safely leaving the chair.
Steering
The user is responsible for steering and controlling the wheelchair. There are many ways to accomplish this, depending on the wheelchair's structure and accessories like armrests or phone/drink holders. Wheelchairs come in a variety sizes and shapes. The size of the front casters on a wheelchair will determine the terrain it can handle. Small casters read more allow a chair to move faster however they are unable to handle rough surfaces such as grass or cobblestone. Large casters allow wheelchairs to move over rough surfaces however, the chair won't be as quick.
On smooth, level surfaces, the wheelchair user should push the wheels using both hands more info to keep the momentum. This is done by gripping the hand rims and pushing with a uniform hand. Hands should not be tucked tightly around the hand rims as this can cause injuries and result in over-corrections when the chair makes a turn. It is also advised that the wheelchair user test leaning forward and backwards to different levels to find the optimal balance between lean and control.
For more difficult or challenging terrain wheelchair users must plan ahead and anticipate obstacles. The wheelchair user should keep an eye on both shoulders to avoid running into objects or people. If they are traveling with a caregiver, they must be ready to assist if required. If the wheelchair is used on a steep slope, the caregiver should assist or drive it until the user is comfortable with the.
To turn the wheelchair, the user has to push one hand rim forward while pushing the other rim back. It is recommended to practice on a flat, smooth surface before moving onto any other surface. The movement can be uncomfortable and the chair could tip over if it is not properly mastered. If the wheelchair has power wheels, this could take some of the pressure off the user, making turning much easier. It is also beneficial to be aware that good-hearted but untrained strangers often try to push someone in a wheelchair against their will, therefore the user of the wheelchair should make sure that their handle handles fold down or cover them with covers for the handles.