Understanding The Different Types Of Webster Wheelchairs

By Author: Neha Gupta
Total Articles: 127
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Wheelchairs are specifically designed for individuals who are unable to walk and require help whenever they need to go from one place to another. They come in different shapes, sizes and materials from which the patients can choose the most suitable according to their convenience and requirements. The choice of wheelchair can depend on various factors, such as the physical condition of individual, his lifestyle and surroundings etc. There are many types of webster wheelchairs available today. Their price and suitability depends on their functionality and features.

The wheelchairs are primarily divided into two types, manual and electric. The manual wheelchairs are the ones which need to be pushed manually by the occupant himself or by someone else. Whereas the electric wheelchairs have a motor attached to them, which makes it possible to operate the wheelchair with a joystick.

The manual wheelchairs come in two varieties, the foldable and the rigid. The foldable wheelchair is made of materials which are light and easy to fold. People can store them or take along ...
... whenever they need to travel. The other type is the rigid. Its joints are welded together and that is why it is not possible to fold this type of wheelchair. Manual wheelchairs can be further classified into three types and these are:

• Self-propelled: The self-propelled wheelchair, as the name suggests, can be pushed or moved by the occupant himself. This type of wheelchair is suitable for individuals who have strong arms and who are able to move the wheelchair by themselves. The design of these wheelchairs is thus that it is very easy for the occupant to move it by himself.
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• Attendant-propelled: The attendant-propelled wheelchair has handles which makes it possible for an attendant to push the wheelchair from behind.
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• Wheelbase chairs: These types of wheelchairs have a platform, wheels and molded seats. The seats of wheelbase chairs are specially molded, for the patients who have a complicated posture, making it more comfortable for them.
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The electric wheelchairs are the best option for those which are unable to push their wheelchair by themselves. Such wheelchairs are operated with the help of a joystick, located on arm rest. These wheelchairs are easy to operate and handle. It gives the occupant the freedom to move comfortably from one place to another without taking anybody’s help.

There is one another type of wheelchair which is specifically designed for people who take active part in sports and is generally known as sports wheelchair. Just because a person is physically impaired does not mean that he should forget his love for sports. There are many people who despite of their physical condition enjoy playing sports with the help of these wheelchairs. The sports wheelchairs are specially designed to offer great control and speed.

Along with the above mentioned types, there are some other kinds of webster wheelchairs as well. They are classified according to their weight and some additional features. Some other common types of the wheelchairs are: standard wheelchair, lightweight wheelchair, heavy duty, reclining wheelchair etc.