How to choose a manual wheelchair? Understand the price, size measurement methods and recommended styles of manual wheelchairs!
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How to choose a manual wheelchair? How to measure the size? This article will start with the four major selection principles for manual wheelchairs, and then introduce the five major points that affect the price of manual wheelchairs. It will also teach you how to measure the height, width, and size of manual wheelchairs to help you choose the most comfortable, easy-to-use wheelchair that meets your long-term care needs. !
1. How to choose a manual wheelchair? List of 4 major manual wheelchair selection rules
Both manual wheelchairs and electric wheelchairs are auxiliary tools to help people with mobility impairments travel. However, because manual wheelchairs are usually lighter, more portable, and relatively less expensive than electric wheelchairs, they are the first choice for many people. Below we list 4 selection points to help you buy the wheelchair that best suits you.
(1) Manual wheelchair use
The user's living habits and physical condition will affect their needs for manual wheelchairs.
general daily life
If the user only uses the wheelchair occasionally and is more affordable, then a steel wheelchair is a good choice. However, if the user frequently uses a wheelchair, it is recommended to choose an aluminum alloy wheelchair or a carbon fiber wheelchair. These wheelchairs are lighter in weight, easier to carry and transport, and more comfortable to ride.
Need to go out frequently
If the user needs to go out frequently, it is recommended to choose an ultra-light wheelchair. Ultralight wheelchairs are made of lightweight materials and usually weigh less than 10 kilograms.
Compared with traditional steel wheelchairs, ultralight wheelchairs are lighter and easier for users to carry on planes , trains, etc., or to carry by themselves when going out.
In addition to daily and outdoor use, if you have special needs, such as those with cervical or back problems, you can choose a high-back wheelchair with more complete back support to help relieve pain and discomfort; for users with fractures, it is recommended Choose a special orthopedic wheelchair with removable or adjustable footrests to avoid discomfort caused by incorrect angles of the footrests, such as being too high or too low.
(2) Size of rear tire of manual wheelchair
The size of the rear tire of the wheelchair will affect the flexibility, comfort and driving stability of the wheelchair. Generally speaking, the larger the tire size, the less maneuverable the wheelchair, but the greater the comfort and driving stability.
- Large wheels: The wheels of the wheelchair are larger. If the road is uneven, they can better absorb road vibrations and make the ride more comfortable. In addition, large-wheel wheelchairs have less rolling resistance, so they require less effort to push.
- Small wheel: The overall weight is lighter and easier to transport than a large wheel wheelchair. If you need to go out, it is also convenient to store in the rear compartment.
(3) Manual wheelchair safety certificate
As a medical assistive device, the safety performance of manual wheelchairs is very important. It is recommended that before purchasing, confirm whether the wheelchair has relevant safety certifications, such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) certification, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) certification, etc., to ensure that the wheelchair meets safety standards and reduce the risk of accidents.
(4) User’s living environment
The user's living environment is also an important factor in choosing a wheelchair. If the user lives in an elevator building, he or she needs to choose a suitable wheelchair according to the size of the elevator door; if the user has a small living space, the size of the wheelchair should be as small as possible. It is recommended to buy a small-wheel wheelchair because of its high flexibility. Easy to turn and operate in narrow spaces.
Where can I buy a manual wheelchair? Click the link below to go to Tiantiandaidai to choose the style you need!
2. How much does a manual wheelchair cost ? 5 factors that affect the price of wheelchairs
The price of manual wheelchairs is affected by many factors, including function, place of origin, wheelchair surface coating, bracket material, etc.
(1) Manual wheelchair function
The more versatile a manual wheelchair is, the higher the price.
General type
The price of a wheelchair falls around HKD 2,600 to HKD 5,000. This type of wheelchair has basic functions such as seats, armrests, and footrests, and is suitable for users with limited mobility but who still have a certain ability to take care of themselves.
Other additional features
- Specially designed for obese people : the price is about HKD 3,880 to HKD 7,200. The wheelchair has a larger seat and stronger weight-bearing capacity, and the height of the foot pedal can be adjusted to adapt to different user heights.
- Designed for people with severe mobility impairments : the price is about HKD 9,800. It has more complex functions and is designed to provide comfortable and safe support for users with severely limited mobility. For example, wheelchair pillows are designed according to the curve of the head and neck, providing additional support and comfort and reducing neck pressure.
(Picture source/Tiantianbu official website)
(2) Surface coating treatment of manual wheelchairs
The surface coating of manual wheelchairs can be roughly divided into two types:
spray paint coating
The cost of spray paint coating is low, the production process is simple, and the color selection is rich. However, it is easily scratched, worn and peeled, and requires regular maintenance to maintain its appearance.
anodized coating
The anodized coating has strong corrosion resistance, high durability and long service life, and is suitable for outdoor use environments. However, the cost is high, the process is complex, and the requirements for production equipment are high.
(3) Manual wheelchair bracket material
The wheelchair bracket material will affect the price and performance. Below we briefly introduce 3 commonly used materials.
6061 aluminum alloy
6061 aluminum alloy has the characteristics of moderate strength, good corrosion resistance, superior processing performance, and reasonable price. It is mainly used in mid-to-low-end wheelchairs and is suitable for general daily use.
7003 aluminum alloy
7003 aluminum alloy has higher strength and hardness, is lighter in weight, and has good corrosion resistance. It is often used in mid-to-high-end wheelchairs, especially those that require higher strength and lightweight design.
Aluminum titanium alloy
Mainly used in the high-end wheelchair market, suitable for users who have extremely high requirements for performance and comfort. It has the characteristics of extremely high strength, light weight, excellent corrosion resistance and good biocompatibility.
(4) Manual wheelchair braking system
The wheelchair's braking system also affects the price. If the wheelchair uses linked brakes, the cost is relatively low, and the skin of the wheel wheels is easy to wear; if it uses a holding brake, the cost is higher, but the skin of the wheel wheels is not easy to wear.
Extended reading: What is linked braking? What is a holding brake?
(5) Origin and brand of manual wheelchairs
There are many brands of manual wheelchairs on the market, among which Japanese and Taiwanese brands are the most popular, such as Miki, Nissin, Merits, Karma, etc. Not only are they of high quality, but these brands also excel in design, functionality and safety. , gaining trust and positive feedback from many users.
However, compared with wheelchairs made in mainland China, the prices of these brands are also higher. The price of wheelchairs made in China is about HKD 3,000 or less, while the prices of wheelchairs made in Japan and Taiwan range from HKD 10,000 to HKD 3,000.
3. Manual wheelchair size is very important! Wheelchair size measurement method revealed
In addition to the four major selection points and price mentioned above, in order to make the user more comfortable, the size of the wheelchair is also very important. It is recommended that you pick up a tape measure first. Below we will explain how to measure the size of the wheelchair.
(1) Wheelchair seat width
To choose the appropriate wheelchair width, you must first remember to measure the width of the user's seated hips. Generally speaking, the seat width should be wider than hip width, but not more than 5 cm . A seat that is too narrow will make the user feel compressed and uncomfortable, while a seat that is too wide will affect the user's ability to maintain correct posture and operate the wheelchair.
(2) Wheelchair seat depth
Use a tape measure to measure the distance from the hip to the knee socket (thigh length) when the user is sitting. Generally speaking, the seat depth of a wheelchair should be about 3 to 5 centimeters shorter than the thigh length . A seat depth that is too long will cause the user's legs to overextend, while a seat depth that is too short will cause the user's legs to flex too much.
(3) Wheelchair seat height
Wheelchair seat height refers to the distance from the ground to the wheelchair seat cushion . The appropriate wheelchair height can usually be selected based on the user's height:
- Height below 165 cm: It is recommended to choose a wheelchair height of 42 to 44.5 cm.
- Height over 165 cm: It is recommended to choose a wheelchair height of 49.5 cm or above.
(4) Wheelchair armrest height
Ask the user to sit in the wheelchair and place their hands naturally on the armrests. Then take out a tape measure and measure the distance from the lowest point of the user's hips to the bend of the elbow. Add 2.5 centimeters to the measurement result to get a suitable wheelchair. The height of the armrests. If there is a wheelchair cushion , remember to deduct the thickness of the cushion! Generally speaking, a wheelchair armrest height of 23 cm is suitable for most users .
(5) Wheelchair back height
The height of the wheelchair backrest should be set about 10 centimeters below the user's armpit. This ensures that the user's shoulder blades are not compressed and provides optimal support for the lower back.
If the backrest height is too high, the user will unconsciously lean forward after sitting in the wheelchair, which will cause hunchback and neck discomfort; if the backrest height is too low, it will not provide sufficient support, and the user's back muscles will need extra strength to maintain the posture. Sitting posture can easily lead to fatigue and soreness in the long term.
(6) Wheelchair pedal height
The height of the wheelchair footrest should be more than 5 cm from the ground to ensure that the footrest does not hit the ground when pushing the wheelchair.
📢Tips : The measurement data mentioned above are for reference only. To ensure your ride comfort, safety, and overall health, it is recommended to take wheelchair sizing with the assistance of a professional to obtain an accurate and suitable fit.
Where can I buy a manual wheelchair? Click the link below to go to Tiantiandaidai to choose the style you need!
4. How to use manual wheelchair correctly ? Summary of operating precautions and techniques
(1) Precautions when using manual wheelchairs
- Fasten your seat belt: Always fasten your seat belt before using your wheelchair. Seat belts prevent the user from falling or slipping out of the wheelchair in the event of an accident.
- Lock the wheels when parking your wheelchair: Wheelchairs are equipped with brakes, usually on either side of the rear tires. When parking your wheelchair, be sure to lock the brakes to prevent the wheelchair from sliding.
- Maintain Correct Sitting Posture: Sitting posture is critical to user comfort and health. Keep your back straight, your feet flat on the footrests, and your knees slightly bent.
- Pay attention to your surroundings: When traveling, please pay attention to your surroundings and avoid hitting obstacles or other pedestrians.
- Do not modify the wheelchair without authorization: Modifications to the wheelchair may affect its safety and performance.
- Do not place heavy objects in the wheelchair carrier: The wheelchair carrier can store light items, such as clothes, water, etc., but do not place heavy objects to avoid the wheelchair losing its center of gravity and tipping over.
(2) Tips for using manual wheelchairs
Ways forward (carer driven)
- Hold the wheelchair push handle.
- Keep your back straight and use your lower limbs to push the wheelchair.
- Use both hands to push forward evenly. If the force applied by both hands is uneven, the wheelchair will turn to the side with weaker force.
- Be careful not to stop suddenly so as not to scare the passengers.
Up and down ramps (promoted by caregiver)
Uphill:
- Hold the wheelchair push handle.
- Bend your knees slightly and lower your center of gravity.
- Push the wheelchair upward firmly.
downhill:
- Have the user face away from the slope.
- Hold the wheelchair push handle.
- Slowly back down the slope.
- Be careful to control the downhill speed of the wheelchair and avoid going too fast.
If the slope is too steep or wide, it is recommended to move forward in a zigzag pattern.
Folding wheelchair
- Remove seat or back cushions.
- Flip up the footrest.
- Just pull up the chair cushion.
open wheelchair
- With your palms facing outward, push the sides of the handle outward.
- Extend your elbows and press down, spreading out the wheelchair.
- Then just flatten the pedals.
5. Deeply loved by consumers! Manual wheelchairs are recommended to be purchased on Tiantian Mobility
The above is the information introduction of manual wheelchairs. If you want to choose a wheelchair that is easy to use, comfortable and well received by consumers, we recommend you to go to Tiantiandaidai!
※Advantages and features of daily transportation
◆ Professional assessment, personalized plan
Tiantian Mobility is different from ordinary rehabilitation supplies stores. It adheres to the core concept of "focus and professionalism". We will first have a deep understanding of your actual situation, and then provide you and your family with the best quality mobility aids and services.
◆ Rich products to meet diverse needs
In addition to manual wheelchairs, Tiantian Mobility also provides mobility aids such as electric wheelchairs, electric nursing beds , crutches, etc., which can meet the needs of different consumers.
◆ High-quality wheelchair for you to use with peace of mind
Tiantian Daimo has carefully selected high-quality wheelchairs, among which the Japanese brand Miki has been awarded the ISO13485 medical equipment quality management system standard certification, allowing you to purchase and use it with peace of mind.
※Sharing customer reviews
If it’s difficult to understand the greatness and considerate service of Tiantian Mobility by reading the text alone, here are the real experiences shared by customers:
Recently, my husband needed to use a wheelchair due to a stroke. We went to the store where we travel every day to choose a wheelchair. The store provides about 20 models of manual wheelchairs for us to choose from, which is a very rich choice.
The sales staff were very polite and enthusiastic. They first carefully understood my husband's situation and recommended a suitable wheelchair model based on his needs. Since my husband needs to move frequently from the wheelchair to the bed, they specifically recommended a wheelchair with thin wheels, detachable footrests and detachable armrests. The advice was very thoughtful and without their professional input we would not have noticed these important details.
I hope to choose a better quality wheelchair for my husband. The store staff also patiently introduced the differences between different brands, especially emphasizing the advantages of Japanese brands, which made us trust their professional advice more.
In addition, the stores that carry the goods every day have them in stock and can be taken away on the spot, which is very convenient. The location of the store is also very convenient, close to the subway station.
The most reassuring thing for us is that Tiantian Mobility has a maintenance area, which is directly responsible for future maintenance. We don’t have to worry about taking the wheelchair to other places for maintenance. Having it repaired by the original manufacturer also makes us feel more at ease.
Where can I buy a manual wheelchair? Click the link below to go to Tiantiandaidai to choose the style you need!