Want to buy a wheelchair? You must be clear about wheelchair specifications while going to buy a new one.
Different wheelchairs have different specifications. So choose that suits your requirements.
Below we are going to share some wheelchair specifications you must know about.
These are essential information to consider when purchasing a wheelchair; the specifications of a wheelchair that you will buy depending on the intended user's posture and conditions.
The height, posture, weight, and structure of the intended user are significant in making the best decision as per the information provided by the dealer or manufacturer of the chair.
Some of such information is discussed below; take note of these specifications as you will need the knowledge when ordering a wheelchair.
Seat Width: This can range anywhere from 14" to 30 inches; in some cases, it has to be custom-designed. Be clear about the space between the arms. Measure the patient's bottom in the back when sitting on a flat surface.
Space Between Arms: This is a critical piece of information as it determines whether the user can fit into the wheelchair.
You can measure any chair that the intended user uses currently, measure it from arm to arm. This should be what you should look for in any wheelchair you are purchasing online.
Remember you won't be trying it before buying, so be careful to make sure you get everything right.
Seat Depth: The user's height is critical when considering the chair's depth; this is measured from the front of the seat to the back.
You can use any chair at home that the user is already comfortable in to determine any specifications, including seat depth. Measure the user's back or buttocks to the inside of the knee when in a seating position on a flat surface.
Seat To Floor Height: This is measured from the floor to the seat. If it is too short, then the user's leg might be dragging on the floor while in us.
If it is too long, the leg will be dangling, so as you can see, it has to be an approximately perfect fit.
If the user will be propelling the chair with their feet, it is essential to let the measurement reflect this; in this case, the patient's feet must touch the floor while sitting comfortably on the wheelchair.
Back Height: Measured from back upholstery to bottom, generally measured from inside the wheelchair, this is also essential information you will need. Measure the user from the top of his/her shoulder to the bottom of the backside.
Arm Style: There is a full arm and desk arm; there is also a fixed and removable desk arm that is half arm that you see; this is good, especially if you will be moving closer to doors, tables, and other things.
The full component is the traditional arm you see in wheelchairs. You were pictured in the photo gallery.
Anti-Tipper: Generally in the back of the wheelchair, between the two wheels and within reacher of the caregiver's feet, it helps to prevent the wheelchair from tipping over, especially for someone who self-propel; it can also be used as a Large Step Tube to help direct and control the wheelchair especially when climbing curbs.
Product Weight: The actual weight of the wheelchair with or without the largest, most lightweight wheelchairs is about 36 LB.
Folding: Folding on a non-folding wheelchair determines whether you will transport this around in a car or fold it for easy storage.
Product Weight Capacity: This is the weight of the intended user that the wheelchair can conveniently handle. We generally advise that you buy a wheelchair that can take at least more than 50Lb of your body weight.
Overall Width: This is essential information to know as it determines whether a wheelchair will fit through the smallest door in your home or at least through the most frequently used door. As a general rule, you can ask the dealer to measure the left outside wheels to the right outside wheels and measure the wheels' outermost parts.
This information is provided for educational purposes only. Better to consult your physician to determine the best wheelchair and visit a local dealer to try one before buying one online.