What are specialty wheelchairs?

There are variations to the standard wheelchair that many people don’t know about. Below is a short list of a few of them.

• One-Arm-Driven Wheelchairs – In a one arm drive wheelchair the left and right wheel axles are linked allowing the user to propel themselves utilizing a hand rim. Heavier than most standard wheelchairs (more components) Take this one for a test drive before purchasing to ensure the user is able to use the chair efficiently. It may take a little practice.
• Foot-Driven Wheelchairs – Enable their occupants to propel and steer using their feet. Like the one arm model, the user must have enough coordination to maneuver.
• Reclining Wheelchairs – Allow easier personal care for patients that need it. Seat remains parallel to the floor; back reclines up to 90 degrees.
• Tilt-in-Space Wheelchairs – Using a tilt system wheelchair allows users to change there orientation and thus redistributes pressure from one area (e.g., the buttocks and posterior thighs) to another area (e.g., the posterior trunk and head) and maintain physical angles at the hips, knees, and ankles.