How to Use a Manual Wheelchair
Manual wheelchairs with push rims enable a wheelchair user to propel themselves
in the chair. Chair without push rims are usually pushed by a person using handles
on the back of the chair.
Steps
1. Preparing the hands:
Especially if you are learning, keep your fingernails trimmed
short so they are less likely to tear. You may want to wear fingerless gloves, such as
weightlifting gloves, to protect your hands from both dirt and injury.
2. Gripping the wheels:
A manual chair meant to be under the control of its
occupant will have a metal rim intended for the hands, called a push rim. This rim
does not touch the ground. It may be easier for you to grip the whole wheel (both
the rim and the tire). Either way is fine.
3. Going forwards:
To go forwards, reach backwards and grip the the wheels as far
back as you can. Push the wheels forward by keeping hold of the rims and moving
them in a forwards direction.
4. Going backwards:
Reach forwards and grip the wheels, and push them
backwards. Be careful, as the little wheels at the front will need to swivel round.
Don‘t forget to look behind you!
5. Turning right:
Hold the right wheel still, and push the left wheel forwards.
6. Turning left:
Hold the left wheel still, and push the right wheel forwards.
7. Spinning on the spot:
If in a tight corner, you may need to spin on the spot. Push
one wheel forwards and the other one backwards simultaneously.
8. Stopping:
Grip the rims and use friction to slow them down. Pinch the push rim
between your thumb and the side of the first joint of your index finger. If the rims
are wet, pinch the tire instead. Use caution, as this friction creates heat that can
burn your hands if you are on a slope or stopping suddenly.
9. Staying still:
If you will be staying still for some time - e.g. to sit at a table - or you
will be using your hands for something - e.g. to take off your coat - then put the
brakes on -- or else you might roll backwards!
10. Going over bumps:
Avoid bumps where possible.Go slowly at first. Hitting a
bump (even one as small as 1cm) at speed can catapult you out of your chair and
across the floor. It is useful to practice popping a wheelie to lift front wheels off the
ground long enough to go over a small bump.
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