Just like there are many makes and models of cars, so are there many makes and models of wheelchairs. Trying to figure what wheel chair to buy can be a confusing, and long task. So let?s break it down into two types of wheel chairs you can own and then further break down the styles of wheel chairs available.
There are two main categories of wheelchairs. They are:
Electric Wheel Chairs: Electric wheelchairs are powered by a motor. In other words, they do not require physical effort ? muscle power to make them move. They?re the higher-class version of the wheel chair wherein you use a control to direct the wheelchair where you want it to go. Manual Wheel Chairs: Manual wheel chairs require you to use your muscles, physical effort to move you around from place to place.
Next, you have 6 styles of wheel chairs to choose from. You want to make sure you pick the style that best suits your needs.
Standard Wheel Chair: This wheel chair is designed for the person who weighs under 300lbs. And can self-propel themselves easily or has someone available to push them in it. A plus about this wheel chair is that if the user or helper does not have trouble lifting up to 45 pounds, then they?ll find this wheel chair ideal. This wheel chair also is less expensive than most out there. Lightweight Wheel Chair: This is one of the most popular types of manual wheelchairs. It does everything the standard wheelchair does, but weighs 10lbs less.
Heavy Duty, Extra Wide/Bariatric Wheel Chair: This is a heavy-duty wheel chair designed to be used by people weighing 300 to 1000lbs.
Reclining Wheel Chair: If you spend long hours in a wheel chair or need to be put into a prone position at times, then this might be the wheel chair style for you. The drawback is that it?s very heavy and hard to transport from place to place.
Transport Wheel Chair: As the name implies this wheel chair is used occasionally. It?s very lightweight and easy to carry in your vehicle. The drawback is that it cannot be self-propelled by hand ? it requires someone to push it. Or you may have to use your feet to ?scoot? to where you need to go.
Written by the Wheel Chair Buyers Guide Team. For the ultimate resource on wheelchairs including free articles, tips and info that?s updated weekly, go to http://www.Free-Wheelchair-Buyers-Guide.com