Get Mobile With Manual Wheelchairs

The first type of wheelchair that was ever created to increase mobility of people with weak legs was a manual wheelchair. Although it is the oldest kind of wheelchair that there is, it is still regarded as one of the most popular mobility devices ever.

As opposed to an electric wheelchair that runs on electric power, a manual wheelchair has to be moved manually. This can be done in one of two ways – either someone pushes the wheelchair and its occupant from behind, or the wheelchair occupant himself propels the manual wheelchair by using upper body and arm strength. Some models are made such so as to be moved with the legs and not with the hands.

Manual wheel chairs come in different varieties so as to adapt to different needs. These include the standard manual wheelchairs, pediatric manual wheelchairs especially designed for children, sports manual wheelchairs for the sport lover, and orthopedic manual wheelchairs which have detachable armrests and footrests for added comfort.

Manual Wheelchair Benefits

1. As a manual chair is much lighter than a power version, it can easily be lifted and transported. In fact, it is quite easy to carry it over staircases and uneven ground with its occupant sitting in it.
2. Manual wheelchairs are not very large and big and are thus perfect for gaining access to small spaces and tight spots.
3. This type of wheelchair gives its occupant the chance to increase their upper body strength, muscles, as well as their stamina, which in turn bodes well for their heart health.
4. It is much easier to care for a manual chair as it has fewer parts and components than a power wheelchair. In addition to ease of maintenance, you never have to worry about your wheelchair batteries getting discharged or spoilt, thus leaving you stranded and beating the very purpose of a mobility device.