Types of Wheelchairs

Wheelchairs are designed to assist people with disabilities, injuries, or disorders that impact mobility. There are various kinds of wheelchairs catering to the needs, environment, and physical capability of the user. The major variants that exist in the market are discussed in detail in the ensuing section.

1. Manual Wheelchairs

Manual wheelchairs are propelled by the user or attendant. They are versatile, widely available, and suitable for a wide array of situations. The main subtypes include:

• a. Standard Manual Wheelchairs
  

  • They feature large rear wheels propelled by the user and smaller front wheels for steering.
  • Some of the characteristics common in most designs include a foldable frame designed for easy transportation and storage, removable footrests, and swing-away leg rests.
  • Uses: For users that have strong upper body capabilities and need a wheelchair that will last them, day in and day out.

• b. Lightweight Manual Wheelchairs

  • Description: As the name would tell, these wheelchairs are lighter compared to the standard ones and are usually made of materials such as aluminum or titanium.
  • Features: The reduced weight makes them easy to handle, particularly for persons with limited strength of the upper body.
  • Uses: Active users who need a wheelchair for long use and much traveling.

• c. Ultra-Lightweight Wheelchairs

  • Features: Advanced customization includes adjustable seat heights, backrests, and ergonomic designs to best fit the user’s needs.
  • Uses: They work great for highly active users who need a wheelchair that can keep up with a very demanding lifestyle.

• d. Heavy-Duty (Bariatric) Wheelchairs

  • Description: Heavy-duty wheelchairs are those types of wheelchairs that have the design to carry bigger or heavier people. Their frames are much more reinforced, and they have wider seats.
  • Features: These wheelchairs usually can support up to 500 lbs or more in weight, with increased stability and durability.
  • Uses: Ideal for people who need a wheelchair that accommodates higher weight limits without sacrificing comfort and safety.

• e. Transport Wheelchairs

  • Description: Transportation wheelchairs are lightweight and limited to temporary use or travel.
  • Features: These chairs are very transportable as most come with a folding action.
  • Uses: For short trips, navigating through a hospital, or when the user requires a caregiver to provide the majority of the mobility for them.

2. Electric (Powered) Wheelchairs

Electric wheelchairs, also known as powered wheelchairs, are propelled by a motor and directed through a joystick or other input devices. These wheelchairs are designed for those unable to self-propel a manual wheelchair due to an inability caused by their physical condition.

• a. Rear-Wheel Drive Wheelchairs

  • Description: These models of wheelchairs have motors at the rear and provide more power and stability, primarily on straight paths.
  • Features: They provide greater speed and are easier to maneuver at higher speeds. The wider turning radius makes them more useable outdoors.
  • Uses: Good for those needing a much more powerful chair for outdoor travel over much uneven ground

• b. Mid-Wheel Drive Wheelchairs

  • Description: Mid-wheel drive wheelchairs have the motor in the center of the chair with the drive wheels under the seat.
  • Features: These wheelchairs offer a reduced turning radius. This then, by implication, makes them extremely maneuverable for application indoors.
  • Uses: Ideal in indoor environments or where an accurate maneuver is necessary-for example, when passing through a hall with narrow pathways.

• c. Front-Wheel Drive Wheelchairs

  • Description: In this type, the drive wheels are at the front of the wheelchair.
  • Features: In front-wheel drive wheelchairs, the front wheels are driven for better traction and have better efficacy on rough terrains like gravel or grass. They climb small obstacles better compared to other types of electric wheelchairs.
  • Uses: Ideal for users requiring a wheelchair that performs ably indoors and outdoors, especially on uneven surfaces.

• d. Folding Electric Wheelchairs

  • Description: These wheelchairs combine the advantages of a folding frame with the power provided by an electric motor.
  • Features: Foldable and portable, which makes them easy to take in trips.

3. Specialized Wheelchairs

Specialized wheelchairs are designed to meet specific needs or activities that are uniquely featured in enhancing comfort or functionalities for users.

• a. Sport Wheelchairs

  • Features: Lightweight frames, specialized seating, and enhanced maneuverability for optimum performance in competitive situations.
  • Uses:Ideal for wheelchair sports participants since it offers them the dexterity and speed in the highest competition level of a person.

• b. Standing Wheelchairs

  • Description: The main feature of these wheelchairs is that they allow users to stand from a seated position.
  • Features: The wheelers carry mechanical system that supports and stabilizes the user while standing; this enhances circulation and lessens pressure sores.
  • Uses: Allows users to take advantage of health and social benefits related to standing, such as enhanced blood circulation and interaction capabilities at eye level.

• c. Reclining and Tilt-in-Space Wheelchairs

  • Description: This category of wheelchairs allows for adjustable positions of sitting; therefore, the user has the option to recline or backward tilt the seat.
  • Features: The reclining function assists in weight distribution to reduce pressure sores, while the tilt-in-space helps users maintain posture and manage pressure.

• d. Pediatric Wheelchairs

  • Features: They come in various sizes and colors, and hence customization is available with added comfort and safety features such as specialized seating and harnesses.
  • Indications: Adapted for young users who want to use a wheelchair that can grow with them throughout their development phase.