How to Choose the Right Wheelchair for Spinal Cord Injury Patients?

Did you know September is Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month? It is observed annually. This is a crucial time to raise awareness about the impact of spinal cord injuries on individuals and their families. This month educates the public about spinal cord injury treatments, their causes, prevention, and the challenges faced by individuals suffering from those.

Data shows that 302,000 Americans live with Spinal Cord Injuries or SCI. But that's not all. Approximately 18,000 new spinal cord injuries occur annually in the United States (54 incidents per 1 million). As you may already know, almost all individuals suffering from SCI are unlikely to make a full recovery. That's why choosing the right type of wheelchair is necessary to ensure the safety, mobility, and comfort of those living with SCI.

Whether heavy-duty wheelchairs or simple wheelchair accessories, you must take your time to choose it all carefully. 

Let's get started.

1. Understand Your Spinal Cord Injury 

   Understanding your spinal cord injury is the first step in choosing the wheelchair for your loved one. For example, spinal cord injuries will dictate whether you need a manual or powered wheelchair.

   Spinal cord injuries vary in severity and location. That leads to different levels of mobility impairment. Usually, SCI can be complete or incomplete, depending on the extent of sensory and motor function loss. Complete injuries cause loss of all sensory and motor functions below the injury site, while incomplete injuries retain some function.

   In other words, you need a thorough understanding of your injuries and the affected body parts. It will help you decide whether you need a manual or powered wheelchair and what  wheelchair accessories you need. You can consult your doctor to know the extent of your injuries and their impact on your body. It can help you make an informed decision.

2. Consider Your Lifestyle 

   Your daily activities, hobbies, and personal preferences - all play a significant role in determining the right fit for you.

   For example, some individuals lead highly active lives, requiring wheelchairs designed for sports or outdoor adventures. In such cases, you may need all-terrain power wheelchairs that are easy to transport. You will also need a wheelchair transfer board,  good-quality cushions, and other customized wheelchair accessories.

   Others may prioritize indoor maneuverability and comfort for everyday tasks. If that's what you need, even a manual wheelchair with minimal accessories could be the right solution for you. But if you live in an apartment, you may need a smaller footprint for your wheelchair. Consider all these mobility and lifestyle factors before investing in a wheelchair.

3. Explore Different Types of Wheelchairs 

   Before seat cushions and wheelchair cup holders, first decide which type of wheelchair you need. Usually, you will see manual and powered wheelchairs in the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

   1. Manual Wheelchairs

      As the name suggests, you can operate these wheelchairs manually (with your hands).

      Advantages: These wheelchairs are lightweight. You can transport and maneuver them easily. They provide excellent upper body exercise. Plus, users who can self-propel have the freedom to move on their own. Also, manual wheelchairs are cost-effective and require less space to maneuver than powered options. But they come with a few disadvantages.

      Disadvantages: Manual wheelchairs demand physical effort to operate. So, this may not be the best option if you have limited upper body strength or endurance. Unlike all-terrain power wheelchairs, they may not be suitable for long distances or uneven terrain without assistance.

   2. Powered Wheelchairs:

      hey are battery-powered wheelchairs. Powered wheelchairs can be outfitted with many different options and positioning components.

      Advantages: Powered wheelchairs are easy to use and very intuitive. They are ideal for individuals with limited upper body strength or mobility. They are suitable for longer distances and various terrains. In short, you get independence with minimal or no physical strain. Unfortunately, they also come with a few disadvantages to consider.

      Disadvantages: Although laden with many wheelchair accessories, they tend to be heavy and bulky. Transporting them around, even with a vehicle lift or an accessible vehicle, can be challenging. Moreover, they can be prohibitively more costly for most users. They do require regular battery charging and upkeep maintenance. Also, powered wheelchairs may not encourage as much upper body exercise as manual ones.

4. Think About Wheelchair Accessories

   Wheelchair accessories can enhance your comfort and convenience. Whether you choose a manual or powered wheelchair, it can come with several accessories, such as:

   • Wheelchair cup holder
   • Wheelchair transfer board
   • Wheelchair seat cushions

   Other accessories include storage pouches, anti-tip devices, or wheelchair ramps. You can discuss your specific requirements and abilities with our team. They can provide you with a customized solution.

5. Accessibility and User-Friendliness

   Accessibility and user-friendliness are paramount when selecting a wheelchair. Your wheelchair should be easy to operate, particularly if you have limited upper body strength. You may also want to opt for features like ergonomic hand rims and responsive wheel systems.

   Another factor you want to consider is the environment where you will use it. Depending on your needs, you may require all-terrain power wheelchairs for outdoor mobility or a wheelchair with compact dimensions for indoor navigation.

   Make sure control interfaces are intuitive and customizable to accommodate your abilities. That includes options like joystick controls, switches, and customizable programming.. Modern wheelchair accessories often integrate technology for improved controls and communication.

6. Recognize Your Seating and Posture Requirements

   When choosing a wheelchair, you must consider your seating and posture requirements. Proper wheelchair seat cushions are necessary to ensure comfort and prevent pressure sores.

   Depending on your needs, you may want to opt for adjustable seat cushions, backrests, and armrests.

   Some wheelchairs come with features like tilt-in-space or recline mechanisms. They can help relieve pressure on specific body areas during extended use. Prioritizing these aspects ensures your wheelchair provides optimal support and reduces health complications.

7. Cost and Funding Options

   Of course, cost is a crucial consideration. As you can imagine, the cost will vary depending on factors like type, customization, features, and accessories. Generally, manual wheelchairs are more affordable than powered ones, but customization can influence costs.

   Powered variants have several wheelchair options and accessories. But they can be costly. The good news is we are able to help build your ideal manual or powered wheelchair with the help of our nationally certified ATP’s.

   You may get funding from nonprofit organizations and charitable foundations. Plus, you can explore grants, installment plans, or financing options. Be sure to do your research before going ahead with your purchase.

8. Don’t Forget about Maintenance and Repairs

   While people are concerned about the initial costs of wheelchairs, they tend to overlook maintenance and repair costs. But this is a critical consideration to ensure the longevity and functionality of your wheelchair. It will also affect your monthly or quarterly spending on the wheelchair.

   Here are a few things you need to consider:

   • Make sure routine maintenance, such as tire checks and battery inspections
   • Watch out for unexpected breakdowns by regularly inspecting the chair.
   • Ensure that servicing and repair options are readily available.
   • Address even the minor issues promptly.
   • Store the wheelchair properly and clean it regularly.

   Incorporating these practices can maximize the utility and reliability of your wheelchair.

Conclusion

Spinal cord injuries are often life-long. That’s why your loved one will need a good-quality, durable, and easy-to-use wheelchair as soon as possible. But you need to consider a few factors, such as the extent of your injuries, mobility requirements, accessibility, user-friendliness, and cost and funding options. It also includes regular maintenance and repair to ensure your wheelchair's longevity. Ultimately, the right wheelchair will significantly enhance your overall quality of life. And these tips should help you get started.

Take the first step toward improved mobility and comfort. Choose the right wheelchair today and regain your freedom. Call (844) 269-4335 or fill out our online form.