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How to Use a Self Propelled Wheelchair Wheelchairs offer mobility and independence for those with limited walking ability. It is important that you master the use of your wheelchair and let an occupational therapist or doctor help you with this. Many people maneuver their wheelchairs using a technique called “wheelies”. This requires the user to have hands that are large enough to span these rims and have a strong grip to propel forward. Seating Position Self-propelled wheelchairs enable you to move independently and not rely on others. This is the primary factor that helps many who want to regain their independence or maintaining it. It also reduces the chance of injury to both the wheelchair user and others who are around them. The user of the wheelchair should be comfortable when seated in the chair. To achieve this, there are many ways to go about it. First, make sure that the footplates are in the proper position. Release the footrest catch and swing them round so that they are at the front of the chair. Make sure that the wheelchair user's feet are placed comfortably on the footplates. The footrest's height could require to be reduced, particularly for those who are hemiplegic (one side of the body is more affected than the other). If the footrests are not high enough, they can cause increased pressure on the seat bones and increase pain and discomfort. A forehead strap will assist the wheelchair user to stay straight, particularly if their neck muscles are weak. These can be adapted by a mobility specialist and are compatible with wheelchairs that do not have headrests. It is essential that if the wheelchair comes with armrests that they are placed in the correct position so that the user of the wheelchair isn't able to hit them with their arms when they move. To achieve this it is recommended to choose a wheelchair with armrests that can be removed or swivel away. In addition, foam inserts could be cut and put on the armrest's back in order to raise them to a more comfortable position. It is also crucial that the wheelchair has a properly-fitting cushion, especially if the wheelchair user is at a high risk of skin breakdown, or pressure ulcers. These are because pressure ulcers result from friction between the skin and the surfaces of a wheelchair. In certain instances, the skin can become irritated and raw because of sitting in a single position for a prolonged period of time. This can cause blisters. Repositioning the wheelchair regularly can reduce the chance of developing pressure ulcers. Pushing Self-propelled wheelchairs allow users to maneuver themselves and free themselves from the need for someone else to push them. They are a lot easier to maneuver than other wheelchairs since they have larger rear wheels as well as pushing handles fitted on them. This enables them to travel over a wide range of surfaces without worrying about slipping or getting stuck on obstacles such as curbs or steps that are small. When you are moving forward with your chair, make sure not to hold the handle too tightly. Overly pressure could cause your hands to get cramped and limit the amount of force you can apply. It may also be helpful to use a handrim cover or wheelchair gloves with grip materials built into the palms. This will improve the positioning of your hands and increase the force you can use. It is essential to keep the front casters clear of any debris like sticks and rocks. If the casters have been covered with this type of material, it can make it difficult to move in the manner you would from your wheelchair, and could result in the loss of control and/or potential injury. If you have a high seat-to-floor height, it could be beneficial to purchase extra padding on the front casters. When going up an unassuming step or a curb it is recommended that you use a caregiver to push the wheelchair for assistance. If you'd like to do this on your own, you'll require additional training and experience under the supervision of medical professionals. It is essential to place the wheelchair perpendicularly (directly) facing the curb or small steps and place the front tires close to the edge. It is crucial to leave plenty of space in the front of you when going up the hill. This will prevent you from colliding with other people. You'll speed up quickly when you don't have enough space ahead of you. You may also collide with someone else. To help you avoid this take care to be aware of those around you when you are on a slope. Also, have a carer or friend waiting to catch you in the event that you begin to fall out of your wheelchair. Braking To ensure that the wheelchair is safe users must perform the braking and steering actions in a certain way. This is particularly crucial when the chair is on an inclined slope, since the centre of gravity can be pushed forward if the brakes are not applied in a controlled way. Always make sure your hand is in the right position when you push the wheelchair. Ideally you should position it at 10 hours (10:00) on the wheel. Release the hand at 2 o'clock (2:00). This will ensure that the majority (or weight) of the body is over the rear wheels, making it easier to push. It also helps maintain the integrity of shoulder wrist, elbow and elbow joint. To turn right in a wheelchair push forward on the right rim and then pull back the left rim. self propelled wheelchairs uk will turn the wheelchair to the right and allow you to remain sitting. Wheelchairs are also equipped with anti-tip bars which prevent the wheelchair from tipping over backwards. Always consult the user guide that comes with your wheelchair to determine the safest slope your chair can traverse. In certain situations, the wheelchair may have to be dismounted temporarily and operated with a hand to negotiate steep slopes. If this happens, it is recommended that you seek the assistance of someone you know or a family member and follow the instructions in the User Guide. It is recommended to use ramps when you are negotiating the kerbstones. This will lessen the pressure on the front and back tyres, allowing you to move faster over the kerb. Many manual wheelchairs feature an option to climb the kerb that can help with this process. It boosts the ability of the wheelchair to climb by around 10cm (4”) To stop a wheelchair, pull the joystick inward towards you to de-clutch the motor and then release the brakes. The wheelchair will stop, and you can remove the footrests or prepare walking aids prior to leaving the chair. Steering The user is accountable for steering and controlling the wheelchair. This can be accomplished in different ways depending on the structure of the chair and any additional features such as armrests or phone and drink holders. Wheelchairs vary in design and size, as well as weight. The size of a wheelchair's front casters can determine the terrain it will handle. Small casters let a chair move faster however they are unable to handle rough surfaces like cobblestone or grass. Large casters let wheelchairs to move over rough surfaces but it will not be as swift. On smooth, level surfaces on level, smooth surfaces, the wheelchair user must push the wheels using both hands to keep the momentum. This is accomplished by gripping the rims of the hand and pushing with a uniform hand. Hands shouldn't be wrapped tightly around the hand rims as this can cause injuries and lead to over-corrections as the chair turns in a circle. It is also advised that the wheelchair user try leaning back and forward to different levels in order to find an optimum balance between lean and control. The person using a wheelchair must anticipate obstacles and prepare for more difficult terrain. It is crucial that the user of the wheelchair looks over both shoulders regularly to prevent running into objects or other people. Also, when they travel with an adult, they should ensure that they are ready to assist when needed. If the wheelchair is intended to be used on an inclined slope, it must be driven or assisted by a caregiver until the user has gained experience with this. To turn the wheelchair, the user must pull one hand rim inwards while pushing the other rim back. It is best to practice on a smooth, flat surface before moving onto any other surface. The motion can be uncomfortable and the wheelchair could fall over if not properly mastered. If the wheelchair has power wheels, this could relieve some pressure off the user, making turning much easier. It is important to be aware that untrained people tend to force wheelchair users against their will. The user of the wheelchair should cover the handles or fold them back.