10
02002167 Revision A, February 2005 • Metro IC3 Owner’s Manual
therapist for assistance in developing your individual technique. Make
sure that the wheelchair is stabilized, and will not move or slide during
the transfer. Take extra precaution to prevent tipping. Use good body
mechanics to prevent personal injury.
REACHING / BENDING
Warning: Always turn the casters frontward to pro-
vide stability while reaching. If in doubt, ask for
assistance or use a device that will extend your reach
without requiring you to shift your weight.
Although it is not recommended, you may find it occasionally necessary
to lean or reach from your wheelchair. Consult with your healthcare
professional for assistance in developing your personal safe reaching or
moving techniques suited to your ability and restrictions.
Forward or sideward
Warning: Do not attempt to reach objects if you are
required to move forward in the seat. Do not attempt
to retrieve objects from the floor if you must reach
down between your knees. Do not shift your weight in
the direction that you are reaching and/or bending;
this could cause the wheelchair to tip.
1. Maneuver the wheelchair as close as possible to the object you wish
to reach.
2. Rotate both casters fully forward: Go forward, and then back the
wheelchair toward the object to swing the casters fully forward.
3. Engage both wheel locks.
4. Ensure that the casters are rotated fully forward before reaching. If
not, repeat step 1.