Accidents, injuries, and disabilities can always confine to a wheelchair. However, regardless of the reason, a wheelchair can provide you with the much-needed means of transporting yourself from one place to another so you don’t completely lose your independence. Generally, there are so many types of wheelchairs out there including attendant propelled and self-propelled. The choice of the type of wheelchair that one should buy depends on the ability of the user. For instance, if your arms or limps are not entirely severed then self propelled wheelchairs are the best ones to use. But what’s self-propelled wheelchair? For more information about this checkout www.nationalwheelchairservices.co.uk.

Self-propelled wheelchairs are the types of wheelchairs that can be propelled by the users themselves. Some of them also come with pushing handles that allow them to be pushed by another person. Since most of these chairs come with larger wheels it means that they can always be pushed over any obstacle. However, since these wheelchairs are self-propelled they should not have a lot of weight that can prevent you from pushing them. They have to lighter so any person or the user can push them on their own. If you are searching or the best angel mobility self-propelled wheelchair, click here to read our in-depth review.

Sometimes referred to as manila wheelchairs, self-propelled wheelchairs are always pushed by the user themselves. As compared to other wheelchairs they usually make it easy for the users to get out and about and to enjoy life the way they want to. They can also help them to significantly regain their independence so they are not disturbed in any way.

• Freedom of movement. Even if you don’t intend to push yourself every time, a self-propelled wheelchair will allow you to enjoy the freedom of movement that you need. Since you have access to the wheels it means you can always change the direction you are going to without involving another person. This is especially important in social settings. The best self-propelled wheelchair also come with push rims or rims on the wheels hence you don’t need considerable upper body strength to push yourself while using the wheelchair.

• Flexible. Most self-propelled wheelchairs also have handles on the back of the wheelchair. Although users push these wheelchairs alone the handles normally make them possible to be pushed by another person. This is very important because sometimes you might be too tired to even push the wheelchairs on your own.

• They are the most suitable wheelchairs for outdoor use. If you are planning to use your wheelchair outdoors then a cheap self-propelled wheelchair becomes the most suitable one. As compared to transit wheelchairs, their large wheels are more suitable for rough terrains. They also prevent the vibrations and bumps that may arise from the roads while travelling from one place to another. This will not only boost comfort but also allow the user to have a smooth ride all through.

• They are foldable. As compared to other wheelchairs out there these wheelchairs are also foldable. This means whether you want to transport them or fold them and use then, later on, you can. According to National Wheelchair Services, most of them have also been designed with folding back that reduces in size and make them easy to take with you wherever you want to go

Is self-propelled wheelchair the right for you?

If you are considering buying a self-propelled wheelchair then you need to ask yourself whether it’s the right one for you. This is because you require some strength to keep moving. So if you are older or if you can’t push yourself then you may need to buy an electric wheelchair to help you. However, if you have the strength and ability to propel it then it’s the right one for you. This is because it’s not only light but also easy to use and maintain. But all in all your specialist or doctor should help you choose the best. Since you can use self-propelled wheelchair-using both arms, you’ll also get the exercise that you need to ensure you stay and remain fit. However, if you don’t use it well it may lead to arm or permanent body injuries.

Types of self-propelled wheelchairs

Self-propelled wheelchair with attendant brakes

This is a type of enigma self-propelled wheelchair that allows the user to propel since they have large rear wheels. These rear wheels may always vary in size and measure anywhere from 20 inches all the way up to 24 inches. Another very important feature that this type of self-propelled wheelchair has is the attendant break that allows the person pushing the wheelchair to apply the brake when needed.

Self-propelled wheelchair with suspension

This type of self-propelled wheelchair has been developed with a suspension that’s been incorporated in the frame. This makes them the best wheelchairs to use in off-roading since they provide a smoother and more comfortable ride over the terrains. Also, when you are moving around the town it makes going up and down much less stressful as compared to other wheelchairs out there. The suspension found within the frame not only spreads the weight but also absorbs any unpleasant jots that may be found in the wheelchair. In addition, a self-propelled wheelchair with suspension comes in multiple options and has a stylish appearance to take care of the needs of the users.

Smallest self-propelled wheelchair

This refers to a self-propelled wheelchair made from aluminium so it can provide the best quality while still remaining extremely lightweight. When needed, this wheelchair can also fold to a highly compact and small shape. It also has footrests, quick release breaks, and half folding back that makes it suitable for storing it even where space is as limited. To provide the user with the best sitting position the footrests are also adjustable thus making it easy for someone to transfer in and out of the wheelchair.

Narrow self-propelled wheelchair

Apart from being narrow and easy to fold, this type of self-propelled wheelchair is one of the best wheelchairs to use when one is going for shopping trips or outings. Apart from having brakes it also boasts of other safety features that are not easily found in other self-propelled wheelchairs. In addition, they are also fitted with adjustable leg rests detachable armrests, chrome-plated steel frame stainless steel skirt guards among others. It’s, therefore, one of the best self-propelled wheelchairs in the market today. This is according to self-propelled wheelchair reviews.

How self-propelled wheelchair works

As compared to other wheelchairs the self-propelled ones are different in that they are operated by the user rather than the attendant. Since they provide complete independence, they are the most suitable wheelchair for the day to day mobility. Their large rear wheels are always fitted with hand rims that give you the leverage to propel the wheelchair either forward of backward without any assistance. If you are blessed with a good upper body strength and stamina, a wheelchair such as this one will always suit your needs.

Self-propelled wheelchairs are also fitted with comfortable ergonomic handles for a bit of extra help when necessary. The push handles are particularly important when dealing with thresholds and high kerbs as compare to other wheelchairs many of them also come with suspension that will reduce the impact while one is travellingover bumpy ground. The rear wheels of the self-propelled wheelchairs can also be removed very quickly using a quick-release button especially if you want to fit them through narrow doorways. Besides, castors and footplates can also be removed. This together with half folding backrests and seats can also make the storage and the transportation of the wheelchair easy.

FAQ about self-propelled wheelchairs

Do you have to wear hand gear when using a self-propelled wheelchair?

Since your hands are your breaks and propulsion at the same time you need to wear hand gloves. With the gloves, you’ll be able to grip as hard as you can and not feel any pain. The gloves are, therefore, what will dictate your speed and safety.

Is there something that you can do to make yourself propelled wheelchair to move more efficiently?
If you want to make yourself propelled wheelchairs to manoeuvre well you need to fit them with pneumatic wheels.

How do you back up in a wheelchair?

If you want to back up you need to push the self-propelled wheelchair in the opposite direction.
Is a self-propelled wheelchair ideal for someone suffering from arthritis?

Yes, a self-propelled wheelchair is the best one since gripping the wheels in a manual wheelchair can be hard for someone who is suffering from arthritis.

Self-propelled wheelchair warnings

• When moving, propelled wheelchairs through close spaces and narrow pathways you need to be extra careful since a hand or arm injury can easily occur.

• A heavy backpack or child on your back may easily change the centre of gravity of your wheelchair. It’s, therefore, very important to be careful in such circumstances.

• When going over bumps or doing the wheels you need to be very careful. This is because you can easily cause injuries if you are not careful enough.

• When going downhill you should not build up too much speed as you might not be abe able to stop along the way.

• If you are new to using a self-propelled wheelchair you need to expect your arms to ache and your hands to become sore. However, remember that this will definitely go away with time.

• While using a self-propelled wheelchair you need to try everything you can to avoid running over feet. Since this is very painful, people can easily become very hungry.

• Use your self propelled wheelchair as you would use a car. When you are reversing or turning you need to look before you go.

• Since breaking causes friction and heat on your hands you need to careful while using your hands downhill stretches.

• If you are going outdoors with yourself propelled wheelchairs it’s very important to be very careful.

Basic tips for maintaining your self propelled wheelchair

If you want to maintain the mobility, performance, and safety of your equipment.

How often should you check your wheelchair?

The maintenance of a manual wheelchair normally depends on the type of wheelchair and the kind of use that it’s been subjected to. However, you need to bear in mind that certain features are subject to much greater wear and tear. Due to this, you need to ensure that your self propelled wheelchair is always kept in the perfect condition to ensure that it’s safe and is working well.

One of the best things to do is to always check the wheelchair tires every month as well as the condition of the breaks so as to ensure that they are working well. You also need to look at the quick-release mechanism, upholstery and footrest once every month correctly taking care of the wheelchair should also involve an annual check by the supplier so as to ensure that it’s in perfect working condition always.

Self-propelled wheelchair key elements that you need to check

Brakes

You need to ensure that you check the brakes of your self propelled wheelchair once every week. Braking efficiency can always be affected by incorrectly adjusted parts and or poor placement of the parts. You, therefore, need to ensure that your wheelchair brakes are in perfect working condition.

Front wheels

Wheelchairs are very important hence should be kept in good working condition. While doing this you need to pay attention to their functionality and fit. One of the most common problems is when the wheelchair is not moving well. Ensure that the angle and play of the wheelchair are adjusted enough so the wheelchair can rotate without any hindrance at all.

Tires and inner tubes of the wheelchair

It’s important for the maintenance and mobility of the wheelchair that the tires are always in good working shape. The correct tire pressure is also important to ensure that the wheelchair provides the best possible performance that you need.

Top tips to help you take care of your self propelled wheelchair

• Check the pressure of the tires at least once a month.

• Check that your wheelchair brakes are always working well.

• After every 3 to 4 months you need to ensure that your wheelchair screws are working well.

• Use a mild detergent to clean the frame of your wheelchair. The cushion and the backrest should only be cleaned using water and soap.

• Use only original parts or the parts recommended by the manufacturer.

• If your wheelchair seat gets wet, try to dry them fast before you can store then. At all costs, you need to avoid storing your wheelchair when the seats are still wet.

• To allow for quick diassamble you need to allow a small amount of oil on the wheelchair axes. F the chair becomes to difficult to move you also need to lubricate the moving parts.

• If you plan to store your wheelchair for sometime then you need to cover it and ensure that you store it in clean dry place. Also, ensure that it’s protected from strong sun. Before using it again you need to undertake a complete check.