Self Propelled Wheelchairs

Self propelled wheelchairs, also called manual chairs, are designed for users who are strong enough to propel themselves. You can have fun and maintain or regain your independence by being able to move your chair on your own.

Some self-propelled chairs come with push handles that allow them to be pushed by a third party should it be necessary. This reduces the need to exert a substantial upper body strength to push the wheelchair, which could lead to arm injuries.

Easy manoeuvrability

In contrast to power wheelchairs which are powered by an electric motor, self-propelled chairs rely on the user's strength to propel them forward. This means they can easily maneuver around furniture, tight corners and other obstacles with no assistance.

They can also be a great option for those who wish to maintain their independence or even regain it. They can also be a good form of exercise. Through their strength of the upper body, they can engage muscles and improve cardiovascular health. Many self-propelled chairs also offer a variety of adjustable features that can be adapted to the individual's needs.

As opposed to standard manual wheelchairs which are designed with the rear wheels at the back of the chair, self-propelled chairs feature large rear wheels and push-rims that allow you to move them with a hand. Self-propelled chairs are lighter than electric wheelchairs, which means they take up less room in your home and are also easier to transport on public transport.

When choosing a self propelled wheelchair, it's crucial to take into consideration the needs of the client and lifestyle. For instance, they may require an auto-sealing wheelchair or outdoor-specific tires to enable the use of the vehicle off-road or on rough terrain. Additionally, some customers may require a specific frame to ensure that their feet are able to easily reach the pedals.



Seat-to-floor is also an important aspect to take into consideration. For example, some people who suffer from hemiparesis and only have function on one side of their body, need a chair with a low seat-to-floor elevation to allow them to foot-propel with their hands.

The ability of a person to reach the front wheel is an additional factor. Ideally they should be capable of touching the center of the wheel with the index finger and thumb, but this will depend on their functional level and how close the front wheels are to the ground.

It is also worth looking into powered devices. These add-ons can reduce the amount of strain on the client's upper body and allow them to save their energy to do other things. They are not for all. For instance they might not be appropriate for those who require a chair that is heavy duty or suffer from severe mobility problems.

Increased independence

Self-propelled wheelchairs give the user the ability to move by themselves and allow them to be independent. It allows the user to manage their movement, which means they can maneuver around crowded areas and furniture effortlessly. It also lets them move at their own speed and travel long distances over difficult terrain. In the end, this freedom is crucial to the health of the user and their social participation.

You must be aware that a chair that is self-propelled requires both arms to function. This could result in arm injuries if not done correctly. Request a therapist's help to ensure you don't become injured.

Self-propelled chairs, as opposed to transit wheelchairs, have bigger rear wheels that have push rims. This enables users to control the chair independently. This makes them better for use outdoors as they can be adapted to various types of terrain and go up and down small curbs.

15 healthy adults who required wheelchair mobility were enrolled in the study. https://www.mymobilityscooters.uk/products/aluminium-narrow-self-propelled-wheelchair-16-seat-width were assessed in three different scenarios that included straight forward (15 millimeters) and an slalom (nine cones arranged and separated by decreasing distances) and an agility test. They were asked to push their wheelchairs through these trials and then answer the questionnaire for Perceived Exertion. Heart rate and oxygen consumption were continuously measured by an oxygen analyser that was portable (Cateye Cycle Computer Velo 8; Osaka Japan) during the propulsion test and during resting intervals.

The results indicated that a self propelled wheelchair is more effective than an electric wheelchair in traversing difficult terrain. This is because of the large rear wheels that are fitted with push rims, which enable the user to move their wheelchair with greater speed and accuracy. The light weight design of these chairs allows them to be easily transported and stored.

Improved fitness

Self-propelled wheelchairs are ideal for people with disabilities, as they enable them to move without anyone else pushing them. This allows you to maintain or even regain your independence, which can give you a new outlook on life. You can also use your wheelchair in more scenarios, and you're not restricted to indoor spaces.

Contrary to transit wheelchairs (which have a small rear wheel and can only be moved by pushing), self propelled chairs have larger rear wheels and pushing handles that users can reach to propel themselves. You can now go further by yourself and improve your health and fitness.

This is especially important for those who suffer from long-term mobility problems, as excessive stress on the upper body can cause injuries and pain, preventing people from engaging in physical activities and leading to a sedentary lifestyle, which could have further consequences for their health. A self-propelled chair is a great way to reduce the stress on the upper part of the body, preventing these issues.

In addition wheelchairs can also be constructed with powered accessories that aid in moving forward. This helps reduce the effort by the user and enables them to conserve energy for other uses. This is especially useful for those who have difficulty to move on bumpy or uneven surfaces, such as slopes and kerbs.

Powered add-ons are able to be fitted to any type of manual wheelchairs. Many are controlled via Bluetooth or smartwatches. This makes them incredibly popular among younger users who are accustomed to technology and appreciate the idea of being able to use their mobile devices to navigate their wheelchairs.

Research has shown that the seat height of the manual wheelchair is a key factor in cardiorespiratory responses and mechanical efficiency in submaximal manual wheelchair propulsion. According to a study the ideal seat height for this type of wheelchair is approximately 100deg. This reduces the stress on shoulder muscles. This is particularly crucial for those suffering from injuries to the soft tissues around the shoulder.

Convenient storage

Many clients who require a wheelchair regular basis have to think about how to store it at home and when traveling. To help with this, several companies offer practical storage solutions. For example the XS2 Self Propelled Wheelchair has the front wheels swivel, making it easy to maneuver indoors or in tight spaces. These wheels are also easy to maintain and have puncture-proof tyres that ensure a comfortable ride. The XS2 comes in a variety of seat widths to accommodate different types of users. The chair is equipped with two parking brakes for additional security. One can be operated while sitting in the chair and the other one is operated by an attendant.

Another consideration is the weight of the wheelchair. While there are some wheelchairs that are lighter however, they may not be suitable for certain outdoor environments such as beaches or national parks. Alternatively, some models have removable armrests to make transporting the chair easier.

The main reason for choosing a self-propelled wheelchair is to regain independence and freedom, to travel around without having to rely on others. Some clients report feeling re-energized and have a fresh outlook on life. They require a lot of strength in the upper body It's essential that you know your limits before buying one.

A self-propelled wheelchair also has the benefit of being able to move it on flat surfaces. Certain chairs can be adjusted to different ground surfaces but this is just temporary solutions. If the chair is to be outdoors, a power chair or a manual type with tyres specifically designed for different terrains could be more suitable.

Some models are designed to be more maneuverable with a frame that is rigid. This can help reduce the energy needed to propel the wheelchair. These kinds of wheelchairs are usually lighter than folding chairs as they don't have to contain a mechanism for extending the frame.

The rear wheels are larger and fitted with an rim that allows the user to push their chair with their foot. Some customers, like those with hemiparesis who choose to push their chairs with their feet, require the rear wheels to have a lower position to allow them to reach.