Standard Wheelchair

Standard Wheelchairs

Features:
Detachable armrest
Detachable footrest
8'' Solid castor
24'' Solid rear wheel
Chrome-plated

A standard wheelchair, also known as a basic or manual wheelchair, is a self-propelled chair with two large rear wheels and two smaller front caster wheels, designed for users with average body weight and sufficient arm strength for propulsion. It features hand rims for self-propelling, caregiver push handles, a steel frame, fixed or removable armrests, and footrests. While it can be foldable for storage, standard wheelchairs are heavier than lightweight models and are often suited for short-term or infrequent use, such as during recovery from an injury.

Key Features

Wheels: Two large rear wheels (22–28 inches) for self-propulsion and two smaller front caster wheels. 

Hand Rims: Attached to the large rear wheels, allowing the user to propel the chair. 

Push Handles: Located on the large back wheels, enabling a caregiver to push the chair. 

Frame: Typically made of durable steel. 

Brakes: Located on the large rear wheels for safety. 

Armrests: Can be fixed or detachable for easier access. 

Footrests/Legrests: Fixed or swing-away, with options for elevating legrests for increased comfort. 

Ideal Use Cases

Short-term mobility: Great for people recovering from injuries who need temporary assistance. 

Basic mobility needs: A good choice for those who need a functional chair for less frequent use. 

Self-propulsion: Suitable for users with adequate arm strength to propel themselves. 

Considerations

Weight: Standard wheelchairs are heavier than other types, like lightweight or ultralight models, making them less portable. 

Propulsion: Requires the user's arm strength to navigate, which can be challenging on inclines. 

Cost: Generally less expensive and a good entry-level option. 

motion, repeating to maintain momentum. To turn, push the rim of the opposite wheel forward. For braking, apply pressure to the hand rims or pinch the tires to slow down. Always lock the brakes when sitting in the chair or transferring, and ensure the footplates are out of the way when getting in or out.

Getting Into the Wheelchair

Lock the Brakes: Secure the wheelchair by pushing the brake levers forward to ensure the chair doesn't move. 

Position Footplates: Swing the footplates out of the way or remove them to create space. 

Sit Down: Approach the chair, feel for the seat with the back of your legs, and lower yourself slowly onto it. 

Place Feet: Once seated, swing the footplates back under your feet. 

Propelling the Wheelchair

1. Forward Motion:

Place your hands on the circular hand rims located on the large rear wheels. Push forward and down, then let go and move your hands back to the starting position to repeat the motion. 

2. Backward Motion:

To go backward, grip the hand rims near the front of the chair and push back and down. 

3. Turning:

To turn to the right, push forward on the left hand rim to propel the left wheel forward while slowing the right wheel. To turn left, propel the right wheel forward. 

Stopping the Wheelchair

1. Braking:

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Apply gentle friction by pushing backward on the hand rims to slow down or stop. 

2. Brake Lever:

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For a complete stop or to keep the chair stationary, push the brake lever forward to lock the brakes. 

Safety Tips

Brakes:

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Always apply the brakes when getting into or out of the wheelchair and before transferring to another surface. 

Footplates:

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Do not stand on the footplates, as this can cause the chair to tip forward. 

Curbs:

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When going up or down curbs, have a caregiver assist you, as this requires special training and technique to do safely. 

Transfers:

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Angle the wheelchair at a 45 to 90-degree angle for transfers on and off the chair. 

Elbows:

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Tuck your elbows in when moving through doorways and narrow spaces to avoid catching them.