Wheelchairs come in different types and different uses. Handicap, disable and elderly are frequent users of this wonderful invention. Wheelchairs are a big help for those people in terms of physical mobility and help raising the self-image of self-worth.

About manual wheelchairs, it is recommended for people who are still capable with their arms and their upper body. This point to the people who may have only lost their legs but still very capable to do other physical activities. But such cannot be recommended to the elderly if he intends to move on his own. It is better if they use powered or electric wheelchairs.

Here's a short checklist of what's important when buying manual wheelchairs

1. Choose the right frame according to purpose

Common wheelchairs have an x brace at the center, which gives it the ability to be folded sideways. Although this is easy but the fact remains that this type of wheelchairs are heavy. Although newer ones are lighter than the older versions. Also there are manual wheelchairs that have welded frames for convenience.

2. Comfort should be the priority

It is vital that when choosing a manual wheelchair that the patient is perfectly comfortable. It should fit for the size of the person and the height. Angled footrest is depends on the patient's comfort.

3. Hand rim should be perfect for the patient

This is a common overlooked part of wheelchair. Hand rims greatly affect the patient's comfort with mobility. Also if a diameter is small it can gain more speed in flat surface and possible cause of accident if not taken into consideration.

4. Check the condition of the wheels

Make sure the wheels are checked not only upon purchase but also regularly. It should be steady to avoid further accidents or complications.

5. Check the balance

Checking the balance of front and back part of wheelchair is a must do. Mobility is greatly affected if the manual wheelchair is not properly balanced. This will cause difficulty both to the patient and caretaker.

Following this guide will give you an idea of what and what not to do in choosing and maintaining a manual wheelchair. Also don't forget about safety. Its better to consult with professionals if you have questions unanswered, rather than doing it on your own or listening to someone who pretends to know the answers. Such action could lead to more complications in the future.

So be safe and ask the professionals.