People who have high level spinal cord injuries do not have
adequate strength to manipulate a wheelchair
compared to those with low level spinal cord injuries or paraplegics. Power
wheelchairs are wheelchairs that have a power source to move the chair without
the requirement of good upper body strength and hand dexterity needed in manual
wheelchairs. Electric wheelchairs can be used to reduce the strain on a
person's shoulder and arms so that transfers can still be performed safely.
These wheelchairs give the user more freedom to drive them rather than rely on
another person to push the wheelchair.
Electric wheelchairs are composed of a base, front-wheel drive,
rear-wheel drive, mid-wheel drive, seating and controls. All these components
make the power wheelchair much heavier than the manual wheelchair. Recline and
tilt-in-space systems can be added for more ease in helping the occupant with
toileting and transfers. These technologies are also responsible for providing
the user better posture, pressure relief and additional comfort. Power
wheelchairs are controlled by a device known as an access control or drive
control. There are different kinds of drive controls which are prescribed
depending on the user's level of function. Switches and joysticks can be used
by a person who still has the necessary minimal hand function. A mouthpiece is
placed on the roof of the mouth. Touching the keypad with the tongue changes
the speed of the wheelchair.
Various accessories are available for more convenience to the
user. A wheelchair bag can protect the chair from dirt and dust when not in
use. Removable armrests give extra comfort. Cup holders and mobile phone
holders are other convenient additions. Cushions in different sizes and
materials are also optional. Wheelchair
lifts are necessary accessories to allow the chair to be elevated so that the
occupant can be transported in a truck or van.
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