How to Use a Self Propelled Wheelchair
Wheelchairs offer independence and mobility for those who have difficulty walking. It is important that you learn how to use your wheelchair, and have a doctor/occupational therapy help you with this.
Wheelies are a very popular method for moving a wheelchair. This requires the client to have hands that are large enough to span these rims and have strong grip strength to propel them forward.
Seating Position
Like the name suggests, a self propelled wheelchair allows you to move yourself and not rely on others. For many, this is the key to getting back or maintaining their independence. It also minimises the risk of injury to the person using the wheelchair and those who are around them.
The wheelchair user must be comfortable in the chair. To accomplish this, there are many things you can do. First, make sure the footplates are in the right position. Release the footrest catch, then swing them around until they are on the front of the chair. Make sure that the wheelchair user's feet are comfortably placed 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 spine and cause pain and discomfort.
A forehead strap can help keep the user of a wheelchair upright particularly for those with neck muscles that are weak. These can be adapted by a mobility specialist and are compatible with wheelchairs that don't have headrests.
It is important that if the wheelchair comes with armrests that they are placed in the correct position so that the wheelchair user isn't able to strike them with their arms when they move. It is best to use a wheelchair with swing-away or removable armrests to accomplish this. Alternately, foam inserts can be cut and put on the armrest's back in order to raise them to a more comfortable level.
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. This is because pressure ulcers are caused by friction between the skin and the surface of a wheelchair. In certain instances, the skin can become dry and irritated due to sitting in the same position for long periods of time. This can cause blisters. Repositioning the wheelchair regularly can reduce the chance of developing pressure ulcers.
Pushing
Self-propelled wheelchairs permit users to move themselves and become independent from the need for a third party to push them. They are much easier to maneuver due to their larger rear wheels and push handles. They can be used on many surfaces without fearing of slipping over obstacles or getting stuck.
Be careful not to grip your chair handle too tightly as you move forward. Overly pressure can cause your hands cramp and reduce how much force you can apply. You can also use wheelchair gloves or handrim covers that have grip material in the palms. This will improve the positioning of your hands and increase the force you can use.
Keep the front casters clear of debris, like sticks or rocks. If the casters are encased with this kind of material, it could make it difficult to move as you would expect from your wheelchair and can result in a loss of control and/or injury. If you have a high seat to floor height, it could be useful to get some additional padding for the front casters.
It is recommended that a caregiver push the wheelchair to assist you climb a steep hill or an easy step. If you'd like to accomplish this independently, you will require more instruction and practice under the supervision of an expert in health care. It is important to position the wheelchair perpendicularly (directly) facing the curb or with small steps and set the front tires close to the edge.
When you are pushing up a slope, it is essential to have a clear area ahead of you so more info that you don't cross paths with other people. You will gain speed quickly here when you don't have enough space ahead of you. You could also end up colliding with another person. To prevent this from happening, try to be aware of people in the vicinity when you are on a slope and have a carer or friend ready to catch you in the event you begin to fall from your wheelchair.
Braking
To ensure that the wheelchair is secure users must perform the braking and steering actions in a specific way. This is particularly crucial when the chair is situated on a slope as the center of gravity could be pushed forward if the brakes are not applied in a controlled way.
When pushing a wheelchair always ensure that your hand is in the right position, ideally at ten hours (10:00) on the wheel, and then releasing at two hours (2:00). This will ensure that the majority (or weight) of the body is on the rear wheels, and make it easier to push. It also helps keep the integrity of the elbow, shoulder and wrist joints.
To turn right in a wheelchair move forward on the right hand rim and then pull back the left rim. This will cause the wheelchair to turn left and allow you to sit in your wheelchair. Wheelchairs are also available with anti-tip bars to stop them from tipping backwards.
Check the user's guide that is included with your wheelchair to determine the maximum safe slope your chair can travel. In some instances, the wheelchair may have to be dismounted temporarily and operated with a hand to negotiate steep slopes. In this instance, it is recommended that you ask a family member or family member for assistance and follow the directions in the User Guide.
It is recommended to use ramps when you are negotiating the kerbstones. This will reduce the amount of pressure required on the front and rear tyres, which will allow you to travel over the kerb at a greater speed. Many manual wheelchairs have a kerb-climber feature that can assist in this process. It increases the capacity of the wheelchair to climb by 10cm (4")
To stop a wheelchair, move the joystick to the side to de-clutch the motor and then gently release the brakes. The wheelchair will stop, and you can take off the footrests or prepare walking aids before more info exiting the chair.
Steering
The user is responsible for controlling and steering the wheelchair. This can be done in various ways, depending on the wheelchair's structure and any accessories such as armrests or phone and drink holders. Wheelchairs vary in design as well as in size and weight. The size of a wheelchair's front casters can determine the terrain it will handle. Small casters enable wheelchairs to move faster but struggle on rough surfaces like cobblestone or grass. Large casters will allow wheelchairs to move over rough surfaces, but they isn't as fast.
On smooth surface that is level on level, smooth surfaces, the wheelchair user must push the wheels with both hands to maintain momentum. This can here be done by gripping the handrims and pushing with both hands. Hands shouldn't be wrapped tightly around the hand rims as this can cause injuries and result in over-corrections when the chair turns in a circle. It is recommended that wheelchair users play with different levels of leaning forwards more info and backwards to find the ideal balance between control and lean.
The user of a wheelchair should be aware of obstacles and prepare for terrain that is more challenging. The wheelchair user must keep an eye on both shoulders to avoid hitting objects or other people. If they are travelling with a caregiver, they should be ready to help when needed. If the wheelchair is to be used on the slope, it should be assisted or driven by an adult until the user has gained experience in this.
To turn the wheelchair, the user pulls one hand's rim back while pushing the other rim forwards. It is recommended to practice on a smooth, flat surface prior to moving onto other surface. The motion can be uncomfortable and the chair could tip over if it is not mastered. If the wheelchair has power wheels, this will reduce some of the pressure off the user and make turning a lot easier. It is crucial to be aware that strangers who are not trained are often able to push a wheelchair user against their will. The wheelchair user must cover the handles or fold them back.