Manual Wheelchairs

Manual Wheelchairs are designed for people with impaired mobility. Generally, the user will be unable to walk at all or can only walk very short distances. Depending on the type of manual wheelchair, they can be used with little or no assistance at all.   

When choosing a manual wheelchair, there are certain factors to consider: 

• Does the user require assistance, or can they manage the chair themselves?
• If assistance is required, can the carer manage the wheelchair?
• Does the wheelchair need to be transported?
• Is the wheelchair suitable for the environment it will be used in?
• What budget is available to purchase the wheelchair?

When deciding on buying a manual wheelchair, there are some things to consider. Depending on the user’s needs, an Occupational therapist or trained professional may need to be consulted to assist with selecting the most suitable chair.

There are two standard configurations; self-propel and transit.  

• A self propel chair allows the user to undertake daily activities independently as they can push the chair themselves using the rims on either side of the wheels. The rear wheels are large, at around 60cm in diameter, and the smaller front castors swivel for ease of turning. These smaller wheels also make it easier to travel over rough terrain.
• A transit chair features handlebars for an operator to push from behind. The rear wheels are much smaller, at around 30 cm in diameter. Most models come fitted with wheel brakes and attendant controlled brakes mounted on the handlebars. Usually, the carer can squeeze the attendant brakes to reduce speed or push down to lock the wheels in place. As the wheels are smaller than a self propel chair, a transit model can be lighter and take up less room when folded for transport.

What types of wheelchairs are there?

Lightweight: Most favoured due to their ease of use, these chairs can weigh as little as 8kg. A lightweight wheelchair makes it much easier for a carer to fold and lift into a car or when storing. The other great benefit is the reduction in the weight when pushing the chair with an occupant in it. This reduced weight is a significant consideration when pushing the chair uphill or on rougher surfaces such as uneven surfaces. Most models are available in standard seat widths of either 16″ (41cm) or 18″ (46cm). Often, the carer can remove the rear wheelchairs and leg rests. This reduced weight makes it even easier for transferring the chair into a vehicle.

Standard: These chairs are the stock standard type and usually fit within the most affordable price range. They are heavier and often bulkier than a lightweight chair however should be just as durable and fit for purpose. It may be more difficult for transferring in and out of a vehicle because of the heavier weight.

Heavy-Duty: Designed for bariatric users, the seats are wider and the frame is stronger than a standard chair. Due to the increased size and weight of the unit, these models may not fit easily into a vehicle, and some chairs may not fold up.

Tilt and Recline: The tilt feature enables you to change the user’s orientation without changing their hip to back angle, thereby reducing pressure build-up. The recline feature increases the angle between the hip and back to allow the user to recline or ‘lie-back’ in the wheelchair. These chairs are often prescribed for users who spend most of their day in the chair. They have more adjustment options than the usual wheelchair.

Please browse the different wheelchair categories on our website and feel free to contact our Customer Service team who will assist you with selecting the right chair for your needs.