Self Propelled Wheelchairs
Self-propelled wheelchairs revolutionise mobility by giving users the ability to dictate speed and direction, as well as their destination without the need for an assistant. They can also be customised by adding a variety of accessories to improve comfort and convenience.
From frame materials to size of the seat, there are a number of factors to consider when buying a self propelled chair. Let's look at some of the most important ones:
Independence
If you are a person with mobility issues losing your independence can be a serious issue. The idea of relying on others to transport you places, or even simply to shop can be a huge stressor. Manual chairs, also referred to as self-propelled chairs, can aid you in regaining or maintaining your independence. They are safe and easy to push, so you can go out and about without having to wait for someone else to get you where you need to go.
Self-propelled wheelchairs come with large rear wheels and hand rims that provide the leverage needed to propel yourself forwards or backwards without the need of an accompanying person. This makes them suitable for a lot more people than you think, particularly those with good upper body strength and stamina. They are also suitable for people who have trouble walking long distances, or over difficult terrain.
Here at Mobility Shop we have a range of different self propelled wheelchairs for all kinds of users. There's a broad selection of wheelchairs, from lightweight and portable models for everyday use to crash-tested wheelchairs for travel and storage. For added comfort we also offer various self-propelled reclining wheelchairs.
You can purchase our self-propelled wheelchairs online and get them delivered the following day to a majority of UK addresses. You can also use the search box to sort wheelchairs based on the kind of frame, seat or features you want.
If you have any queries or require assistance in choosing the best wheelchair for your needs do not hesitate to connect with a member of our customer service team. We are always happy to help and can be reached on 01278 764454 or email us at [email protected]. We are looking forward to hearing from you! (c) 2024 The Mobility Outlet (formerly Webster Wheelchairs) All rights reserved. Registered office: Harben House, Harben Parade, Finchley Road, London NW3 6LH.
Manoeuvrability is easy
Self-propelled wheelchairs are great for individuals who need the freedom of movement but still have sufficient upper body strength to propel their chair. They provide users with a new lease of life and the ability to manage their own mobility. They are also great for those looking to stay clear of the cost and hassle of powered wheelchairs.
The frame and centre of gravity of a wheelchair are largely responsible for its manoeuvrability. Research has demonstrated that a chair that is built with fixed wheels as close to their center of gravity as is possible reduces the force of turning significantly.
Additionally, it is important to consider the weight of the person using the wheelchair's manoeuvrability. Heavy chairs have a greater center of gravity, which makes them more difficult to maneuver. On the other hand, lighter chairs have a lower centre of gravity, which makes them easier to move and operate.
Modern self-propelled chairs are designed for easy maneuverability as evident in their small size and lightweight frames. They are also typically highly customizable with adjustable features such as the backrest angle and seat heights. This allows individuals to tailor their wheelchair to meet their specific requirements, which increases comfort and decreases the chance of developing pressure sores and other discomforts.
Self-propelled wheelchairs are available with a wide range of accessories and add-ons that can increase the user's comfort. For instance cushions can help to maintain the user's posture, and help reduce strain. Alternatively, self propelled wheelchair with elevated leg rest can be fitted with a pressure monitoring system to help decrease the risk of flat tires.
Another benefit of self-propelled wheelchairs is that they're easy to transport and put away. Many models come with quick-release rear wheel designs, making it easier to take off the chair footplates and front castors. Many models also come with folding seats and half-folding backrests that make them more compact for storage and transportation. Many are equipped with parking brakes, which can be operated by the driver or their attendant. This provides additional safety and convenience.
Customisation
Powered wheelchairs are not always the best option for every individual and self-propelled chairs put control back into the hands of the user. They empower independence by permitting the user to control the pace and direction. They also help maintain muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness.
These wheelchairs are made for active people and are versatile enough to handle different environments, including roads that are paved and steep hills. They are often lighter than transit chairs and are able to be folded to be stored in cars with small trunks. They are a useful and practical mobility aid, particularly for those who live alone or have very little assistance.
The most common frame material is aluminium but titanium offers greater resistance to fatigue and durability which makes it a preferred choice for more demanding users. Titanium is also known for dampening vibration, which is increasingly important since pushing around can cause a lot of discomfort for some wheelchair users. Some models, such as Ki Mobility's Ethos, have been specifically designed to minimize the impact - resulting in an extremely comfortable ride while allowing the user to stay in the control of their chair.
Wheelchairs are becoming more and more popular, with products including simple track wheels that lift your front castors off the ground to improve off road traction, to power-assisted rear wheels (controlled like a powerchair but without the requirement for batteries) to handbikes, like Triride's Special HT, Rehasense's PAWS City and the Empulse F55. These features can be customised and enable you to ride on more difficult terrains. They also enhance your comfort and independence.
The lightweight self propelled wheelchairs from Mobility Shop offer a variety of additional features, to assist you in finding the ideal wheelchair for your requirements. For example, our Lite 2 can be fitted with power assist, which allows you to transform the manual wheelchair into a powered model using an attendant control. This can be operated using an armrest lever or by utilising the push handle - whichever is most convenient for you.
Comfort
There are a variety of wheelchairs to choose from, so finding the best model for your needs could be difficult. It's a good idea to discuss your options with a mobility expert or GP as well, to receive the most appropriate advice to your particular situation.
If you have strong upper body strength and mobility, self propelled wheelchairs are an excellent choice for day to day mobility. These kinds of wheelchairs come with larger back wheels that have an outer 'push rim' can be used to propel the chair. The wheelchairs are also equipped with an adjustable handlebar that can be used to control and steer the chair. Self-propelled chairs are less heavy and easier to maneuver than transit models.
Attendant-propelled wheelchairs, on the other hand, are designed to be pulled by an attendant from behind. They are smaller in size and are generally easier to push than self-propelled chairs, however, they can be a challenge to climb obstacles like curbs made of paving. These chairs are also larger and are more difficult to fit into the trunk of your car.
Many organisations, like gardens, zoos and parks, offer wheelchair hire on a regular basis. It is recommended to reserve in advance to avoid disappointment. It is also possible to rent wheelchairs on a long-term basis from specialist mobility shops. It is crucial to weigh the pros and cons of this alternative, however - it might be more economical in the long run to buy your own chair.
You can further increase your comfort on a self-propelled wheelchair by incorporating additional accessories. Some of these are useful, like storage bags or footplates and others assist you to locate a more comfortable sitting position. You can add seats or headrests to give you additional support and lessen the pressure on your thighs and buttocks.
You can also choose to have your self propelled wheelchair equipped with attendant brakes which are essential for those who frequently need to be pushed by someone else. These brakes will make slowing, stopping and turning much more simple, especially for heavier users.