How to Measure for a Wheelchair: A Step-by-Step Guide for Canadians

One of the most important factors in wheelchair comfort and function is correct sizing. A wheelchair that doesn't match your body measurements can cause pressure injuries, poor posture, fatigue, and difficulty maneuvering. Whether you're buying for yourself or a family member, taking accurate measurements before purchase is essential.

What You'll Need

• A firm, flat chair (not a soft sofa)
• A flexible measuring tape
• A second person to assist with measurements (recommended)
• Paper to record measurements

Step 1: Seat Width

Have the person sit in a firm chair with their hips against the back. Measure across the widest part of the hips or thighs (whichever is wider), from one side to the other. Add approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch) to this measurement — this gives the ideal seat width, allowing for comfortable positioning without excess side-to-side movement.

Example: Hip width of 44 cm → ideal seat width of 46 cm → choose 18-inch (46 cm) seat.

Step 2: Seat Depth

With the person seated, measure from the back of the buttocks along the thigh to the back of the knee. Subtract approximately 5 cm (2 inches) to ensure the front edge of the seat doesn't press into the back of the knee. This is the ideal seat depth.

Step 3: Seat Height / Footrest Length

Measure from the floor to the back of the bent knee while the person is seated. This determines footrest height. Footrests should support the thighs without lifting them off the seat or allowing them to hang unsupported.

Step 4: Back Height

For standard use, seat back height should reach just below the shoulder blades — allowing free arm movement for self-propulsion. For users needing more postural support, a higher back or adjustable lumbar support may be required.

Step 5: Armrest Height

With the person seated, measure from the seat surface to the elbow when the arm is bent at 90 degrees. Armrests set at elbow height prevent shoulder elevation and encourage relaxed upper-body positioning.

Common Sizing Mistakes

• Buying too wide: A wide seat makes self-propulsion harder (arms must reach out further) and may not fit through standard doorways (typically 76-81 cm / 30-32 inches).
• Seat too deep: A deep seat that presses behind the knee restricts circulation and causes discomfort over time.
• Footrests too low: Hanging feet put pressure on the back of the thighs — a common cause of pressure injury.

For a full sizing consultation, visit Factory Direct Medical's Concord, Ontario showroom or call our mobility specialists at 1-855-235-2400. We carry manual wheelchairs and transport chairs in multiple seat sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions