How To Correctly Size An Electric Wheelchair?
Introduction:
If you are going to purchase an electric wheelchair, keep the following methods in mind for its accurate size calculation.
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Wheelchairs are required for the mobility of disabled people. It can be categorized into two types: manual and electric-powered wheelchairs. In modern society, wheelchairs demand is increasing rapidly. It is used by disabled and aged people. It is seen that driving a manual wheelchair for a long time will cause pain and injury in the wrist, elbow, and shoulder. Thus electric powered wheelchairs have gained popularity and are increasingly used in modern society. This section takes a look at the current scenario of the state of the art in intelligent control of power wheelchairs.
How To Determine Wheelchair Fit
Measure Seat Width And Depth
Determine seat width by measuring the person’s hips from one side to the other, in a straight line. Then add two inches to this measurement to select a proper wheelchair seat width.
Determine seat depth by measuring from the back of the hip to the back of the knee of the person while seated. Then, subtract one inch from this measurement to choose the correct seat depth.
Select The Arm Type And Height
Full-Length Wheelchair Arms: These are best suited for people who will be frequently doing stand-up pivot transfers. The full-length arm provides the proper support a person needs to help push themselves up to stand.
Desk-Length Wheelchair Arms: These are recommended when a wheelchair-bound person will want to be comfortable while sitting at a desk or table. The shorter arms allow them to get closer to the table’s edge.
Arm Height: The height of the wheelchair arm can vary. Measure from the elbow to the seat of the chair while the person is holding their arms up with their elbows bent at a ninety-degree angle. When available, height-adjustable arms are recommended.
Footrest Style
Elevating Leg Rests: People who suffer from edema, swelling, or injury and are ordered by their doctor to elevate their leg(s) should sit in a wheelchair that has leg rests that can lock while elevated, allowing the person to extend and elevate the legs.
To determine the length of the footrest, measure the distance from the back of the person’s knee to the heel of their foot.
Articulating Leg Rests: These are useful for taller people. The leg rests can extend longer, while the elevating piece of the leg rest rises.
Back Height
Have the person sit in the wheelchair, then measure the distance from the person’s collarbone down to the seat.
For patients with a condition that requires additional back support, there are options for higher backrests, and even reclining backrests, which will allow a doctor to prescribe the appropriate weight redistribution that some patients may require.
Wheelchair Seat Height
If the person needs to use their feet at any point to propel themselves in the chair or move, than measure the distance from the back of the knee to the heel. The seat height should allow for the person to reach the floor with their heels.
Weight Considerations
Wheelchairs are built to accommodate certain weight limits. Make sure you know the person’s weight so that you can fit them to a wheelchair that can safely support them.
Some people in wheelchairs fold up their own chairs and place them in their cars so that they can travel in a regular car seat. In fact, many people who use wheelchairs still have the ability to drive. Therefore, take into account the person’s upper body strength when selecting a wheelchair. Weaker patients will require lighter wheelchairs.
Conclusion:
We hope you have understood the way of measuring the size of an electric wheelchair. Also, never limit yourself to these points only. Keep looking for innovative ideas.
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Article compiled by www.factorydirectmedical.com