{"id":6123,"date":"2018-09-27T16:21:10","date_gmt":"2018-09-27T11:21:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.karmamobility.co.uk\/?p=5148"},"modified":"2018-09-27T16:21:10","modified_gmt":"2018-09-27T11:21:10","slug":"powered-wheelchairs-vs-manual-wheelchairs-pros-and-cons","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wheelchair-experts.in\/powered-wheelchairs-vs-manual-wheelchairs-pros-and-cons\/","title":{"rendered":"Powered wheelchairs vs manual wheelchairs: pros and cons"},"content":{"rendered":"

September 27, 2018 12:21 pm<\/p>\n

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The decision to purchase a wheelchair should not be taken lightly, and you must do your research to ensure you choose the most suitable chair \u2013 particularly for daily use. For instance, those who obtain a chair through NHS wheelchair services will need to choose a chair that can last five years, before they are prescribed a new one. Therefore, you must consider all aspects of manual wheelchairs or powered wheelchairs; including positioning, seating, wheels and even customisable wheelchair accessories.<\/span><\/p>\n

As such, we are discussing the pros and cons of both<\/span> powered wheelchairs<\/a><\/strong> and manual wheelchairs to ensure you settle for the right chair for your needs.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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\"Morgan<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\"Sparrow<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Clinical needs<\/span><\/h2>\n

First things first, you need to assess your clinical needs. You can determine your own clinical needs for the likes of a power assist wheelchair, as you know what feels right and comfortable to use for long periods of time. With that in mind, we suggest trialling a number of various mobility electric wheelchairs or manual wheelchairs to assess the comfort levels. It\u2019s also important that you choose a chair that enhances your posture and reduces the risk of any other conditions, such as poor blood circulation, digestive issues and pressure sores.<\/span><\/p>\n

A physiotherapist \u2013 specialising in assessing people who may benefit from a power wheelchair \u2013 may also prove invaluable, suggesting recommendations that can greatly improve your independence and overall health.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Lifestyle<\/span><\/h2>\n

Your lifestyle must certainly be taken into consideration when assessing the pros and cons of manual and powered wheelchairs. Will your home support the requirements for a power wheelchair, such as storage, power source and the like. Similarly, consider the needs for using powered wheelchairs, including ramps, stair lifts or other adaptations. However, if you are concerned about storage; there are<\/span> folding electric wheelchairs<\/strong><\/span><\/a> available which can influence your decision.<\/span><\/p>\n

Your day to day life and independence is a huge factor when opting for the correct power wheelchair. For instance, are you hoping to travel outdoors more and use public transport. Powered wheelchairs can help to place the control back into your hands \u2013 especially if you rely on assistance for your chair. Powered wheelchairs offer a range of controls for all abilities, as well as the power to explore on your own.<\/span><\/p>\n

Knowing your own strength and ability to maneuver a manual wheelchair will also influence the decision. Manual chairs rely on upper body strength, which can put significant strain on your back, shoulder and neck muscles, and you must ensure you are capable of propelling yourself.<\/span><\/p>\n

Lastly, you should also seek the advice of your GP or physiotherapist, who can provide recommendations and, quite possibly, point you in the right direction of a supplier.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Benefits of powered wheelchairs<\/span><\/h2>\n

There are enormous benefits to powered wheelchairs \u2013 especially for those with continued reduced mobility:<\/span><\/p>\n