What every disabled person should know about standard weight wheelchairs

Ask anyone who has spent a great deal of time in a wheelchair; weight matters.

The differences between standard weight wheelchairs and lightweight wheelchairs are immense, but did you know that a lightweight wheelchair is the safer choice?

This article will help you find the right wheelchair, and decide whether that means a lightweight or a standard weight wheelchair.

Buying a wheelchair: the hidden pitfall

Whether you are searching for your own wheelchair, or you want to buy a loved one a comfortable and portable wheelchair, but there is one thing you must know before you make your purchase; the wrong kind of wheelchair can be dangerous in all kinds of ways.

Choosing a wheelchair that is too heavy can result in injuries from extended use. It’s all about the basic science of forces exerted during the propulsion of the wheelchair. The lighter the chair, the more the force required to move the wheelchair. And it’s either the person in the wheelchair or their aid that bears the brunt of the wrong wheelchair choice.

Nerve injury and repetitive strain are the most common injuries sustained by wheelchair users. Moreover, once you suffer from either of these, constant discomfort is expected.

Safeguarding against injury:

1. Buy the right wheelchair weight for yourself: Whether it’s a standard weight wheelchair or a lightweight one, the overall weight of the chair will make a huge difference to your comfort.
2. Consider an electric wheelchair: Especially if you have limited abilities in your upper body.
3. Ensure your seat is positioned correctly: The height and depth of your seat also makes a huge difference to the type of rolling experience you have, be sure to measure all potential depths and heights before ordering a wheelchair.

By buying a wheelchair that is the right height and weight for you, you can be sure you will always have a comfortable ride.