Manual Wheelchairs

Manual wheelchairs can be very basic or highly advanced with specialized features. Manual wheelchairs are divided into four basic categories; folding wheelchairs, rigid, positioning (tilt wheelchairs) and sports wheelchairs. 

Foldable Manual Wheelchairs

Folding manual wheelchairs are a great choice for the more dependent user who does not need maximum efficiency in propulsion. Foldable wheelchairs offer a high level of adjustability. They are usually constructed in steel or aluminum and can accept all types of seating systems, footrests and arms which are removable on most models. They are portable wheelchairs designed to fold making them effective for travel and storage but are generally heavier than rigid wheel chairs due to folding cross-braces. 

Rigid Manual Wheelchairs

Rigid manual wheelchairs offer a higher level of performance. They are usually lightweight and can be made with steel, aluminum or even titanium. These wheelchairs are the choice of the full-time independent user due to their high efficiency. There are a wide range of seating systems available and footrests can be fixed or removable. The frame itself is fixed which means the wheels must be removed and the back folded down to allow for transport in a typical vehicle. 

Tilt Wheelchairs

Tilt wheelchairs address specific needs no other wheelchair style can do effectively. They are excellent for pressure reduction, allowing for frequent changes in position to reduce the occurrence of pressure sores. Users with a kyphosis (forward curve in the upper spine) constantly face the floor when seated upright but can see better when tilted back and this also minimizes the need for many restraints and extra supports. 

Sports Wheelchairs

Similar to rigid manual wheelchairs, sports wheelchairs have specially added features such as optional wheel camber angles and offensive/defensive wings, to full-out racing machines. Sports wheelchairs can be specialized for basketball, quad rugby, tennis, track, marathon and hand cycle attachments can be added to an existing chair or purchased as part of a stand-alone manual wheelchair.