getting a manual wheelchair

[peemagg]

Hi all,

I thought with all the experience on here with wheels, that you might be able to help me. I am right now getting around with either a scooter or forearm crutches, but I am contemplating also getting a lightweight folding wheelchair, not a transport chair for use around home or out where the other two options are not the most feasible.

What chair(s) do you all like? Is there anything in particular I should be aware of as for getting one? I am looking for one that would be easy for me to use and be under 30 lbs if possible.

Should I get one that is custom fitted for me? My condition (whatever it is. I have yet to be able to get a diagnosis) is seeming to get worse, and it is getting harder and harder for me to get around with the crutches and the scooter isn't always the best option either.

Any and all suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you

 

[brat]

I would get a fitting. Try a few before ordering. Think about what sitting position you feel best in. Since you do not have a clear diagnosis describe to them your issues. I do not know enough about your health to know what other features you would need. Do you feel better with a high back, mid or low back? Leg rests can raise.Features can add weight and cost to your chair.Make sure you also sit on the cushions.

I feel better with my knees higher than my hips.DH sits even knees and hips.DH uses his manual more than I do.He tilts back on his wheelie bars often.I like a higher back and use lat supports to help me sit better.

Feel free to ask anything.

 

[peemagg]

One of the issues I have is RSD and it makes my feet swell and turn colors and hurt more when hanging down. Most of my problems though seem to be MS related, but as of yet have no diagnosis of it.

Thank you for your suggestions. I will definitely ask when I have more questions.

 

[brat]

Do you use compression stockings(TED)?

 

[Michigan]

I also suggest seeing a lymphodema physical therapist to measure you for custom socks.

I also would go with a rigid chair instead of a folding on. rigid chairs the backs fold down and the wheels come of so it can fit anywhere a folding chair can. It will last longer and gives a better ride. Look for anything titanium for the lightest chair.

 

[peemagg]

Do you use compression stockings(TED)?

I have tried them in the past, but with the RSD, my foot is too sensitive and it caused me more pain. Things to help with the swelling are usually no-no's for me. Either I can't stand it being on my foot (I hate shoes and socks, but have to deal with them, but as little as possible), or things like using ice and cold can make my condition worse. So it is more of something of taking the lesser of two evils and dealing with as best as possible.

 

[peemagg]

I also suggest seeing a lymphodema physical therapist to measure you for custom socks.

I also would go with a rigid chair instead of a folding on. rigid chairs the backs fold down and the wheels come of so it can fit anywhere a folding chair can. It will last longer and gives a better ride. Look for anything titanium for the lightest chair.

Thank-you I will look into these suggestions.

 

[SueM in MN]

I also suggest seeing a lymphodema physical therapist to measure you for custom socks.

I also would go with a rigid chair instead of a folding on. rigid chairs the backs fold down and the wheels come of so it can fit anywhere a folding chair can. It will last longer and gives a better ride. Look for anything titanium for the lightest chair.

My DD’s current manual wheelchair is a rigid chair and it can fold quite small once the wheels are taken off - they have quick release buttons and the wheels pop off easily once the release mechanism is released. Being rigid makes it much more stable.
The seat also makes a big difference, so the suggestion to try some out is a good one.

 

[KPeveler]

I also suggest a fitting for a wheelchair. A badly fitting wheelchair can actually cause MORE damage!

Also, I second the rigid suggestion if possible. It usually will weigh less and be easier to push, especially if you ever plan on pushing yourself on carpet.

 

[SueM in MN]

We’ve always had wheelchair fittings for DD’s wheelchairs and I agree the fitting part of the process is a very important part.

Also, when you are looking at wheelchairs, the weight listed is usually just the weight of the frame.
Some of the options you choose can make a big difference in the weight. Some armrests are very light and others are heavier. Swing away footrests are necessary for some people, but if you don’t need them, the types that does not swing away are much lighter. Different types of wheels also make a difference in weight. The mag type wheels are lighter weight and also require less maintenance than wheels with spokes.

 

[peemagg]

Where do you go to get a fitting?

I still have some ability to walk (with crutches) and I do have a scooter, but I am looking for a wheelchair to kind of bridge the gap between the two devices. I don't need a wheelchair full time yet. I just need one where the crutches are not a good idea nor is the scooter.

 

[peemagg]

Is there any brands that you like over the others?

I have been looking at the Tilite, and Quicky and Pride ones the most, but have no experience with any of these. I kind of keep coming back to the Tilite ones, but was wondering which ones you all like the best.

 

[jdb in AZ]

Where do you go to get a fitting?

When we bought a wheelchair for DMIL we just looked in the yellow pages for a wheelchair dealer and they did the fitting. It probably wouldn't hurt to visit more than one dealer. Perhaps your doctor's ofc could recommend a reliable dealer.