Proper wheelchair fitting is critical for your health and long-term comfort, no matter if you need a life-long solution or a single day wheelchair rental. A poor-fitting wheelchair can cause pain and frustration – but a well-fitting wheelchair can provide comfort and independence. Here’s everything you need to know about getting the perfect wheelchair fit.
Problems Associated with a Poorly-Fitted Wheelchair
A poorly-fitted wheelchair can lead to pain, discomfort, and additional medical issues that can affect your health and mobility. These problems can include:
- Poor posture and balance
- Difficulty breathing
- Hip issues
- Pelvic problems
- General pain and discomfort
- Pressure point ulcers and sores
A poorly-fitting wheelchair also won’t last as long as one that fits properly, due to uneven wear and tear.
What to Expect From a Properly-Fitted Wheelchair
A properly-fitted wheelchair offers a number of benefits, including:
- Providing mobility, freedom, and personal independence
- Keeping you socially active
- Improving or maintaining overall health
- Creating a comfortable experience
- Preventing additional medical issues from forming
There is no perfect chair that fits everyone, but with the help of a professional, you can find the perfect chair for you.
How to Measure for a Wheelchair
While many people are tempted to look on the internet for a wheelchair, the best way to get the right fit is to sit in one yourself. Accurate measurements taken by a wheelchair fitting specialist will ensure a comfortable fit.
Key Wheelchair Fitting Measurements
Key measurements for a good wheelchair fit include:
- Seat width, depth, and height
- Arm length and height
- Leg rest elevation
- Foot rest length
- Type of back support
- Weight limits
- Cushion size
The “90-90-90” Rule
One of the hallmarks of a properly-fitting wheelchair is the 90-90-90- rule, which states that your hips, knees, and ankles should all be at 90-degree angles to create the proper sitting posture. While this isn’t a perfect formula for every body, it can be an easy way to check the general fit of your current chair.
Wheelchair Sizing & Weight Capacities
Another important part of wheelchair fitting is ensuring the correct weight capacity. A wheelchair is a big investment, and a chair with an appropriate weight capacity will last you longer and likely require less repairs.
At Mobility City, we carry a variety of bariatric and high-capacity wheelchairs to meet our customers needs. While you may only have one or two wheelchair options to choose from at other stores, we carry a large stock so you can find just what you need.
Find a Comfortable Fit With a Wheelchair Fitting Specialist
Mobility City’s expert technicians can help you find the right wheelchair for your mobility needs and the right fit for you. And, our showrooms have an indoor racetrack where you can take different wheelchair options (including electric wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, and transport chairs) for a spin to double-check fit and comfort.
