Ch3: Wheelchair Components Flashcards
Push Handle
Handles on the back of the wheelchair that allow non-users to propel, maneuver and handle the wheelchair
Back Upholstery
Provides support for the users back. When desired, height of back upholstery can be changed depending on desired function or support needed.
Arm Rest
Provides support for the user to rest their arm. Can have a feature of desk/table cut outs to allow wheelchair to go under desk or tables. Can be fixed, removable, or swing away.
Front Rigging
Component of the wheelchair to which the footrest/foot plate and calf rest/calf support are affixed. Front riggings are usually at a fixed angle of 60-70 degrees. Can be fixed in place or can swing away. Elevating leg rests allow the user to adjust their leg at any angle.
Tipping Lever
A feature on the rear of a wheelchair that allows a non-user to press their foot on to raise the front caster wheels to maneuver wheelchair up and down curbs or when it is desired to elevate the front caster wheels. The tipping lever can be adapted with anti-tipping bars and anti-tipping wheels when it is not desired to have user elevate the front caster wheels or for increased anterior/posterior stability.
Push rim / drive rim
A rim affixed to the drive wheel which is typically made of plastic or aluminum. The push rim/drive rim is where the user holds on to for maneuvering the wheelchair.
Drive wheel
The largest wheel on the wheelchair and typically the back wheel which the user propels the wheelchair. Drive wheels can be pneumatic and filled with air or can be solid material depending on desired use and function of the wheelchair.
Caster wheel
The front wheels on most wheelchairs. Casters are affixed to a rotating mount. Allows user to change directions and make turns or turn wheelchair 360 degrees.
Calf Rest / Calf Support
Provides support behind the leg/calf. Can be one removable upholstery piece or can be a fold away piece that can be moved when not in use.
Foot rest / Foot Plate
Allows user to rest foot while in a seated/rested position or during wheelchair propulsion. The footrest/foot plate can be either fixed in place or can fold away when not in use.
Standard Foam Wheelchair Cushions
Lowest cost and most economical cushion. Provides firm support, support and some comfort rather than seating directly on wheelchair seat upholstery. The seat upholstery can cause a slinging effect which has adverse positioning and pressure on the user. A solid foam cushion is best for those at low risk of developing pressure areas on their skin. However, foam cushions are primarily used for support and positioning. It is best to have a combination cushion such as gel or memory foam for comfort and pressure redistribution.
Gel Wheelchair Cushions
Gel cushions are supportive as well as pliable. Gel shifts and moves with the user but also keeps them in place especially when used in combination with foam. Gel and foam combination cushions are highly recommended for users with advanced stages of skin breakdown, as well as for bariatric users. If individuals are at higher risk for skin breakdown, or already have compromised skin, gel inserts should be considered. This would provide protection and distribute weight and allows the cushion to move and adapt to the users’ body position changes throughout the day when seated.
Wedge/Positioning Wheelchair Cushions
Wedge inserts are to be used with caution and a posture assessment should be undertaken to determine if the individual has the available joint range of motion at the hips and knees to sit in the wheelchair with a wedge insert. A wedge is an insert that may be used to prevent an individual from sliding out of their wheelchair/ or to encourage a more neutral pelvic position (from posterior pelvic tilt towards the anterior – to achieve neutral). NOTE: not everyone can achieve and maintain a neutral pelvic position. The wedge is traditionally placed with the narrower end meeting the junction of the seat and the backrest (posteriorly). The higher side of the wedge faces the front of the seat edge (anteriorly).
Air Filled Wheelchair Cushions
An example of an air-filled cushion is the ROHO cushion. The purpose of a ROHO cushion is to decrease the amount of pressure on the sitting area through a patented technology of interconnected neoprene air cells that increase and decrease in air volume to match an individual’s contours. This is well suited for patients with decreased sensation or for who may have developments of pressure areas on the skin.
Standard Wheelchair Type
Designed for persons who weigh less than 200 pounds and for limited use on rough surfaces; not designed for vigorous functional activities.
