A wheelchair harness refers to a device designed specifically to promote a good positioning for the upper trunk of the body while seated in a wheelchair or while using a transport wheelchair. The best wheelchair harness can safely assist a user to sit well for long on a wheelchair and allow them to use their hands and arms as best as they can. Depending on the patient’s body frame, the type of wheelchair, and budge there is a variety of wheelchair harness that one can choose from. If you are searching or the best harnesses for wheelchairs, click here to read our in-depth review.

Why you need to use harnesses for wheelchairs

According to National Wheelchair Services, a wheelchair harness can simply be described as a postural aid which should not be considered in isolation but for use when effective support at the pelvis does not in themselves solve the postural issue. When looking for the best harnesses for wheelchair it’s important that you consult a physiotherapist or an occupational therapist. An inappropriately chosen wheelchair harness or incorrectly sized harnesses for wheelchairs can lead to occupation deprivation. In fact, in the past, there have been cases where deaths have been caused as a result of this.

This risk can be caused by the harness either sliding up or the user sliding down by ensuring that the wheelchair harness is prescribed and purchased well you can significantly reduce the risk. For more details check out www.nationalwheelchairservices.co.uk

Types of harnesses for the wheelchair

Belts for wheelchairs

These refer to affordable mobility equipment that is meant to ensure that the wheelchair user is comfortable. They not only ensure the safety and stability of the elderly but also other disabled wheelchair users. Made of woven nylon they are designed in such a way that they will prevent the user from slipping out or falling out of the wheelchair while using one. This means that they provide the kind of kind that the wheelchair user needs.

Butterfly harness for wheelchair

This type of harnesses for the wheelchair is designed in such a way that they keep the wheelchair user’s upper torso safe and secure. Since it permanently attaches to the wheelchair or scooter, it provides easy entry and exit. They are not only comfortable but also have quick release buckles that are hinged to provide the user with additional comfort. More so, their main body is made of flexible material that can be hand washed and dried.

Retractable seat belts for wheelchairs

This refers to a pelvic harness or positioning belt that’s necessary to offer a good and sturdy pelvic positioning to the wheelchair. When properly placed it will control the pelvic and provide the stability and the safety that the user needs. Since it comes with a button it will allow the belt to retract like a car seat belt to ensure that the straps are kept from falling off.

Straps for wheelchair

This type of harness for the wheelchair is made such that it helps prevent the user from slipping from the wheelchair. Once you have worn it well it will ensure that every trip that you make is safe. These straps are not only easy to fit but also simple to fasten and easy to use so you don’t have to worry when you purchase one.

Clip of buckle wheelchair seat belts

These are the types of wheelchair seat belts that come with clip style buckle and male and female locking pins. The seat belt resembles that of a backpack lock strap and is also very easy to use. Since there are several of them in the market you can always find the one that you are looking for with a lot of ease hence you don’t have to worry. This is according to National Wheelchair Services.

Anti-static strap for wheelchair

These are the types of seat belts that are used to protect the user for the effects of electricity. By taking proper steps and using them in your wheelchair you can always protect yourself as a wheelchair without worrying about anything. As long as you choose the best one you should be good to go.

Wheelchair chest harness design

The best harnesses for wheelchairs generally consist of a centre section which not only rests against the user’s upper torso but is also attached to the wheelchair using four straps. The centrepiece can either be padded straps or one-piece butterfly design. The centre sectors are usually padded and the straps are nylon webbing. Their quick-release buckles will allow quick entry and exit and the straps are adjusted in such a way that they fit well. At the end of the straps where they are connected to the wheelchair, they have different attaching options

Harnesses for the wheelchair installation tips

Have the wheelchair user sit in the wheelchair and try to dry-fit the wheelchair harness and then look for suitable mounting points before drilling the holes. If you have already had some holes drilled you can use but if they are not in the right places you should not use them.

When looking for the best mounting points you need to keep in mind that the harness should not ride on top of a person’s chest. Also, it should not be too tight once it’s been installed.

Once you’ve installed the wheelchair harness, you should move the person back to the chair so you can attach the belt using the buckles. Since you have to adjust the straps to a precise fit it might take you some time to do this.

If the end-user of the wheelchair is unable to feel comfortable ensure that you can slide your hand between the centre section of the harness and the body. This should ensure that the material can be able to stretch a little bit.

How to take care of harnesses for wheelchairs

To maintain the safety of the wheelchair it’s important that the harnesses for the wheelchair are well taken care of. Here are some guidelines that will help you take care of them.

• Before every use, you need to look at the straps to check whether they are worn out or frayed.

• You should also inspect the stitching, especially where the straps are attached to the centre section to ensure that they are still secure and in very good shape.

• The buckles of the harness should also firmly attach well in the best place and the straps should not be loose at all.

• You also need to look at the points of mounting and ensure that all the screws there are secure and fit well

• If the harnesses for the wheelchair become spoiled and dirty you should wash it with some soap and water and dry them.

• When reattaching it again after washing you need to ensure that you carry out the procedure well. This way you’ll ensure that it works the way it’s supposed to.

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