Types of Manual Wheelchairs

Careful consideration should be given when choosing a manual wheelchair. There are many different types of manual wheelchairs, options and models available to suit the different needs, preferences, style and budget for everyone.

When determining what type of manual wheelchair you need, consider your range of motion, othodpedic status, muscular tone, strength and cardiopulmonary status. Also think about possibilities for change in function, need for adjustable frame, positioning needs and the environment in which the wheelchair will be primarily used.

Self-propelled manual wheelchair frames include:

Standard Wheelchair – This is your basic institutional wheelchair with no frame adjustments or modifications. A steel frame construction with limited size options. The chair weights approximately 36 pounds with a 19 to 21 inch seat to floor height.

Standard Hemi Wheelchair – This is similiar to the standard wheelchair with the exception of offering a lower seat to floor height (typically 17 to 18 inches) and shorter footplate extension tubes.

Lightweight Wheelchair – More available sizes but limited choices. There are few frame modifications or adjustments, including a minimal adjustable axle plate and these wheelchairs weigh on average about 28 pounds. The standard seat to floor height is 17 to 21 inches.

Ultra Lightweight wheelchair – This type wheelchair offers more sizes, options and accessories and many frame styles, adjustments, including adjustable axle plates. They have folding and rigid options, modular options and different suspensions.  More options in caster sizes and adjustable back angles, more back height options and the chair weighs less than 30 pounds. This type of manual wheelchair is more expensive.

There are other types of specialty wheelchairs and accessories available such as sport-wheelchairs and beach and water access devices. It’s important to consider physical dimensions, needs and functions along with lifestyle when choosing a manual wheelchair.