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5 Most common types of wheelchairs - a review and guide by your medical store

5/25/2023

 
Wheelchairs are medical devices that consist of a seat, a backrest, four wheels, and a frame. Wheelchairs can be propelled by the user, by an attendant, or by a motor. Wheelchairs can help people with limited mobility or disability to move around independently or with assistance. Wheelchairs can also improve the quality of life and well-being of the user by allowing them to participate in social, recreational, and occupational activities.

Here are the 5 Most Common Types of Wheelchairs: A Review and Guide

There are many different types of wheelchairs available on the market, but the five most common ones are:
  • Manual wheelchairs
  • Power wheelchairs
  • Transport wheelchairs
  • Bariatric wheelchairs
  • Pediatric wheelchairs
Each type of wheelchair has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the needs and preferences of the user. In the following sections, we will explain each type of wheelchair in more detail and will also recommend some of the best products that we offer at Your Medical Store for each type.

1. Manual Wheelchairs
Manual wheelchairs are medical devices that are propelled by the user or by an attendant using their hands or feet. Manual wheelchairs are usually lighter, cheaper, and easier to maintain than power wheelchairs. However, they also require more physical effort, skill, and endurance from the user or the attendant. Manual wheelchairs can be classified into two subtypes: self-propelled and attendant-propelled.
Self-propelled manual wheelchairs are devices that are propelled by the user using their hands or feet on the large rear wheels. Self-propelled manual wheelchairs allow the user to control their speed, direction, and braking. Self-propelled manual wheelchairs are suitable for users who have good upper body strength and coordination.
Attendant-propelled manual wheelchairs are devices that are propelled by an attendant using their hands on the handles behind the backrest. Attendant-propelled manual wheelchairs allow the attendant to control the speed, direction, and braking of the wheelchair. Attendant-propelled manual wheelchairs are suitable for users who have poor upper body strength or coordination.
Some of the benefits of manual wheelchairs are:
  • They are lighter, cheaper, and easier to maintain than power wheelchairs
  • They can be folded or disassembled for easy storage and transportation
  • They can be customized and adapted to different sizes and shapes of users
  • They can be used in any environment
Some of the drawbacks of manual wheelchairs are:
  • They require more physical effort, skill, and endurance from the user or the attendant
  • They may not be able to climb steep slopes or overcome obstacles
  • They may not have many features or options
  • They may not provide optimal comfort and support for the user
If you are looking for a reliable and comfortable manual wheelchair, we recommend the Chariot Series 3 Wheelchair with Adjustable Height Armrests and seat by Your Medical Store. This product is one of the best ones on the market, and it offers many features and benefits, such as:
  • It has a weight capacity of 300 lbs, which is sufficient for most users
  • It has a durable steel frame with a powder-coated finish that resists scratches and rust
  • It has an adjustable seat height that ranges from 17.5 to 19.5 inches
  • It has an adjustable armrest height that ranges from 8 to 12 inches
  • It has a padded seat and backrest that provide comfort and support
  • It has a removable footrest that can be adjusted in length and angle
  • It has a dual rear locking casters that provide stability and safety
  • It has a warranty of 3 years on the frame 
The Chariot Series 3 Wheelchair with Adjustable Height Armrests and seat by Your Medical Store is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a simple and effective way to move around independently or with assistance. You can order it online from our website for only $249.00, which is a great deal compared to other similar products.
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SHOP THIS WHEELCHAIR

2. Power Wheelchairs
Power wheelchairs are devices that are propelled by a motorized system that is controlled by the user using a joystick, a switch, or a voice command. Power wheelchairs are usually heavier, more expensive, and more complex than manual wheelchairs. However, they also require less physical effort, skill, and endurance from the user, and they can provide more speed, power, and maneuverability. Power wheelchairs can be classified into two subtypes: front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive.
Front-wheel drive power wheelchairs are devices that have the motorized system located on the front wheels. Front-wheel drive power wheelchairs have better traction and stability on uneven surfaces, and they can turn more easily in tight spaces. However, they also have lower speed and less responsiveness than rear-wheel drive power wheelchairs.
Rear-wheel drive power wheelchairs are devices that have the motorized system located on the rear wheels. Rear-wheel drive power wheelchairs have higher speed and more responsiveness than front-wheel drive power wheelchairs, and they can travel longer distances on smooth surfaces. However, they also have less traction and stability on uneven surfaces, and they require more space to turn.
Some of the benefits of power wheelchairs are:
  • They require less physical effort, skill, and endurance from the user
  • They provide more speed, power, and maneuverability than manual wheelchairs
  • They have more features and options
  • They provide optimal comfort and support for the user
Some of the drawbacks of power wheelchairs are:
  • They are heavier, more expensive, and more complex than manual wheelchairs
  • They depend on electricity or battery power, which means that they need to be charged regularly
  • They may not work if the motor or the battery fails
  • They may not fit in some vehicles or buildings
If you are looking for a convenient and powerful power wheelchair, we recommend the EW-M30 Compact Folding Power Wheelchair by EWHEELS. This product is one of the best ones on the market, and it offers many features and benefits, such as:
  • It has a weight capacity of 220 lbs, which is common among other power wheelchairs
  • It has a foldable design that allows for easy storage and transportation
  • It has a lightweight aluminum frame that is sturdy and durable
  • It has a rear-wheel drive system that provides high speed and responsiveness
  • It has a joystick controller that allows for easy operation
  • It has a rechargeable battery that can last up to 12.4 miles per charge
  • It has a low battery indicator that warns the user when the battery needs to be charged
  • It has a warranty of 1 year on the frame and 6 months on the battery
The EW-M30 Compact Folding Power Wheelchair by EWHEELS is an ideal choice for anyone who needs a portable and easy-to-use way to move around independently or with assistance. You can order it online from our website for only $999.00, which is a great price compared to other similar products.
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SHOP THIS WHEELCHAIR

3. Transport Wheelchairs
Transport wheelchairs are devices that are designed to be pushed by an attendant rather than propelled by the user. Transport wheelchairs are usually lighter, smaller, and cheaper than other types of wheelchairs. However, they also provide less comfort and support for the user, and they require more cooperation and participation from the attendant. Transport wheelchairs are suitable for users who need occasional or temporary assistance with mobility, such as traveling or visiting.
Some of the benefits of transport wheelchairs are:
  • They are lighter, smaller, and cheaper than other types of wheelchairs
  • They can be folded or disassembled for easy storage and transportation
  • They can fit in most vehicles or buildings
  • They can be used in any environment
Some of the drawbacks of transport wheelchairs are:
  • They provide less comfort and support for the user
  • They require more cooperation and participation from the attendant
  • They may not have many features or options
  • They may not be compatible with some types of accessories or modifications
If you are looking for a lightweight and convenient transport wheelchair, we recommend the 13 lb Featherweight Transport Wheelchair by Feather Mobility. This product is one of the best ones on the market, and it offers many features and benefits, such as:
  • It has a weight capacity of 300 lbs, which is sufficient for most users
  • It has a weight of only 13 lbs, which is lighter than other transport wheelchairs
  • It has a durable aluminum frame with a powder-coated finish that resists scratches and rust
  • It has a padded seat and backrest that provide comfort and support
  • It has a removable footrest that can be adjusted in length
  • It has a dual rear locking casters that provide stability and safety
  • It has a warranty of 1 year on the frame 
The 13 lb Featherweight Transport Wheelchair by Feather Mobility is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a simple and effective way to transport someone who needs occasional or temporary assistance with mobility. You can order it online from our website for only $399.00, which is a great deal compared to other similar products that all weigh more.
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SHOP THIS WHEELCHAIR

4. Bariatric Wheelchairs
Bariatric wheelchairs are devices that are designed for users who have a body weight of more than 300 lbs or who have a body mass index (BMI) of more than 30. Bariatric wheelchairs provide extra comfort and support for the user, as well as extra durability and stability for the wheelchair. Bariatric wheelchairs are usually made of heavy-duty steel or aluminum frames that can withstand high pressure and weight. However, they can also be large, heavy, and expensive.
Some of the benefits of bariatric wheelchairs are:
  • They provide extra comfort and support for the user
  • They provide extra durability and stability for the wheelchair
  • They can withstand high pressure and weight
  • They can accommodate different sizes and shapes of users
Some of the drawbacks of bariatric wheelchairs are:
  • They can be large, heavy, and expensive
  • They can be difficult to find and fit
  • They can be difficult to transport and store
  • They can have limited features and options
If you are looking for a sturdy and comfortable bariatric wheelchair, we recommend the Heavy Duty Bariatric Steel Wheelchair by Your Medical Store. This product is one of the best ones on the market, and it offers many features and benefits, such as:
  • It has a weight capacity of 450 lbs, which is higher than most other bariatric wheelchairs
  • It has a durable steel frame with a powder-coated finish that resists scratches and rust
  • It has a seat width of either 22 or 24 inches
  • It has an adjustable seat depth that ranges from 18 inches
  • It has a padded seat and backrest that provide comfort and support
  • It has a removable footrest that can be adjusted in length and angle
  • It has a dual rear locking casters that provide stability and safety
  • It has a warranty of 1 year on the frame and 1 year on the parts
The Heavy Duty Bariatric Steel Wheelchair by Your Medical Store is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a simple and effective way to move around independently or with assistance. You can order it online from our website starting out for only $382.00, which is a great deal compared to other similar products.
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SHOP THIS WHEELCHAIR

5. Pediatric wheelchairs
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Pediatric wheelchairs are devices that are designed for children or adolescents who have limited mobility or disability. Pediatric wheelchairs provide comfort and support for the user, as well as growth and development for the wheelchair. Pediatric wheelchairs are usually smaller, lighter, and more colorful than adult wheelchairs. However, they can also be more expensive and require more frequent adjustments.
Some of the benefits of pediatric wheelchairs are:
  • They provide comfort and support for the user
  • They provide growth and development for the wheelchair
  • They are smaller, lighter, and more colorful than adult wheelchairs
  • They can improve the self-esteem and social skills of the user
Some of the drawbacks of pediatric wheelchairs are:
  • They can be more expensive than adult wheelchairs
  • They require more frequent adjustments
  • They may not fit in some vehicles or buildings
  • They may not have many features or options
If you are looking for a reliable and fun pediatric wheelchair, we recommend the Ziggo Pediatric 12 Inch Wide Seated Wheelchair by Circle Specialty. This product is one of the best ones on the market, and it offers many features and benefits, such as:
  • It has a weight capacity of 150 lbs, which is sufficient for most children or adolescents
  • It has a durable steel frame with a powder-coated finish that resists scratches and rust
  • It has a seat width that ranges from 12 to 16 inches, depending on the model you choose
  • It has a seat depth of 12 to 16 inches, depending on the model you choose
  • It has a padded seat and backrest that provide comfort and support
  • It has a removable footrest that can be adjusted in length and angle
  • It has a dual rear locking casters that provide stability and safety
  • It has a warranty of 3 years on the frame and 1 year on the parts
The Ziggo Pediatric 12 Inch Wide Seated Wheelchair by Circle Specialty is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a simple and effective way to move around independently or with assistance. You can order it online from our website for only $279.00, which is a great deal compared to other similar products. We also have the 14 inch and 16 inch Ziggo Wheelchairs too!
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SHOP THIS WHEELCHAIR

Conclusion
In this blog post, we have explained the five most common types of wheelchairs, which are manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, transport wheelchairs, bariatric wheelchairs, and pediatric wheelchairs. We have also introduced you to some of the best products that we offer at Your Medical Store for each type of wheelchair. I hope that this blog post has helped you learn more about the benefits, features, and functions of each type of wheelchair, and that you will be able to make an informed decision on which one suits your needs and preferences. If you would like to shop our entire offering of wheelchairs, please click the button below.
SHOP ALL WHEELCHAIRS
If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us at Your Medical Store. We are always happy to hear from you and to assist you with your home medical equipment needs. Thank you for reading this post, and have a wonderful day!

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    ​Your Medical Store Blog Posts are meant to provide you with information regarding some of the most innovative durable medical equipment products currently available for purchase in the USA. We simply want to help people who are living with disabilities and challenges.

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  • Home Page
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