| Determining what kind of manual wheelchair you need | | | | of effort. This type of wheelchair is recommended |
| can be overwhelming. There are many options and | | | | for someone who cannot self-propel in a standard |
| styles available to choose from. So how do you | | | | manual wheelchair. The weight of this type |
| determine which one is best for you? It is best to be | | | | wheelchair ranges from 28-34 pounds. |
| evaluated by a rehabilitation professional so they can | | | | Ultra Lightweight wheelchair is for the highly active |
| access your condition to help you determine the best | | | | individual as they are more easily maneuverable and |
| available option for your needs. A physical therapist | | | | durable. This type wheelchair weighs in as low as 14 |
| or occupational therapist that has passed the RESNA | | | | pounds. This helps with ease of use and transport. |
| certification test and is an Assistive Technology | | | | Heavy Duty manual wheelchairs have a reinforced |
| Practitioner (ATP) is trained to analyze your needs to | | | | heavy-duty frame that accommodates weight |
| recommend the appropriate type of wheelchair. | | | | capacities ranging anywhere from 250 to 650 pounds |
| Different Types of Manual Wheelchairs | | | | depending on the brand of chair. |
| Standard manual wheelchairs are used by those with | | | | Manual wheelchairs are prescribed to help the user |
| sufficient upper extremity function that can safely | | | | with mobility related activities of daily living. To safely |
| self-propel the standard wheelchair. The weight for | | | | use a manual wheelchair requires assessment of |
| this type of wheelchair starts at 35 pounds. | | | | coordination, range of motion, endurance, strength |
| Lightweight manual wheelchairs give you the most | | | | and willingness to use the manual wheelchair. |
| independence of movement with the least amount | | | | |