Different types of wheelchairs.

Karman Healthcare offers over one hundred types of manual wheelchairs that have an extensive amount of features and options. Some cater to users that are used to traveling constantly, others cater to users who may need to tilt or recline for comfort and health related issues. Our Wheelchair Categories are Manual Wheelchairs, which include Ergonomic Wheelchairs, Ultra Light Wheelchairs, Light Wheelchairs, Transport Wheelchairs, Standard Wheelchairs, Recliner Wheelchairs, Tilting Wheelchairs, Active or Sports Chairs, Bariatric or Heavy Duty chairs, and pediatric or kids wheelchairs.

The Basic or Everyday Wheelchair

This is the starting point to manual wheelchairs, it starts with a basic set up of a wheelchair. Most conventional wheelchairs are considered basic, they are defined by the components that are a part of the basic chair. Seat dimensions, back dimensions, armrest type and dimension, footrests types, leg rests types, wheel and tire size, wheel type and type of driving rim, and also front wheel casters type and size. Some other considerations to keep in mind with a basic wheelchair are weight, amount and type of use, seating inserts, and upholstery material and color.

Wheels and Tires

The most basic wheelchairs come standard with two 24″ rear wheels, and two 7-8 inch front caster wheels. The typical rear wheel has wired spokes, although some alternative materials are available, such as plastic or alloy rear wheels. Rear wheel tires are available in three different types, Pneumatic, Semi-Pneumatic, and Solid Non-Pneumatic Tires. Wheelchair Wheel Hand Rims are connected to the outside of the wheels to permit the user to control the chair without having to touch the dirty tires. For some users, hand rim grip tape is available in the case that you cannot grip the hand rim comfortably.  Wheelchair Front Caster Wheels make it possible for the user to steer the front of the chair. The standard type of wheelchair casters come in 8″ diameter, and are usually solid rubber tires.

Seat Height

The seat height of a basic adult chair is about 19 1/2 to 20 1/2 inches. Taller people may require a seat that is elevated higher and deeper. A person with a shorter frame will require a seat height that is lower. For the most part, this type of seat height for an average wheelchair user can be fulfilled by stock wheelchairs, but if it does not proper body dimensions can be measured by a certified agent, and then built to fit those specific measurements.

Seat Type

Our wheelchairs have a determined seat type, they can feature slings where the upholstery is placed, with various materials to keep it in place. Velcro is one of the most common used sling materials that allow the upholstery to stick in place without sudden slippage or misplacement. A solid seat where folding is possible is available, a removable  seat upholstery may also be considered. For some patients special seat cushions may be required. Cushions should not be be considered optional for some users, they should be considered an integral part of the overall wheelchair. Sometimes cushions are used to secure the lowest possible pressure over the soft tissue that is in contact with the the seat. Wheelchair cushions are most often used to prevent pressure sores, and also helps with preventing slipping. Cushions can be used to place the user in the best possible position for operating the chair.

Front Riggings

Wheelchair front riggings is a term used to describe the chair’s footrests and leg rests. Footrest feature is a support bracket which sometimes can include swing away and removable mechanisms. Some footrests come with a calf pad that helps support the back of the leg of a user in place.

Seat Width and Depth

Manual Wheelchairs are usually available in seat widths ranging from 10 to 32 inches. Usually each seat width size that follows the prior is incremented by 2 inches. Some companies allow you to order larger seat widths than listed above, this type of seat width would need to be special ordered. Seat depth and height from the floor may vary with the width size approximate. To select the proper seat width it is important to keep in mind comfort and stability. A seat width that is too narrow will not only be uncomfortable, but will also make access to the chair more difficult than it needs to be.

Correct Seat Width is Imperative

If you purchase the wrong seat width, you will be more prone to pressure sores and other health related issues. If the seat width you received is too wide, it stimulates the user to lean toward one end of the chair, which promotes scoliosis and increased one sided pressure. If your seat is too wide this can also make it difficult to propel yourself because you exert more energy in order to lean and propel the wheels. If your seat is too deep for your body type, or maybe longer that it needs to be, it can restrict blood circulation in the legs, and may cause the user to sit with their legs extended or to slide forward on the seat.

Can I tell the difference between wheelchair types?

If i can tell difference, I know my wheelchair.

Contact us for more information regarding our different types of wheelchair. 

 

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