Here is a small guide to choosing a wheelchair.

Le wheelchairs are a real means of transport for people with temporary or permanent disabilities. Indispensable for getting around in the home, or outdoors. You can find different models of wheelchairs at  M.I.A. MEDICAL ITALIA.IT a site specialising in the rental and sale of long-term care aids and home physiotherapy.

Let's take a look at the various models available on the market.

SELF-PROPELLED FOLDING WHEELCHAIR. Ideal for those who want to move around independently, with large rear wheels.

TRANSIT WHEELCHAIR. I deal for non-independent patients who need the assistance of a second person to get around. With small rear wheels.

PAEDIATRIC WHEELCHAIRS. Ideal for children up to 1.40 m tall. equipped with large, removable rear wheels.

BARIATRIC WHEELCHAIRS. Suitable for persons weighing over 130kg. With a reinforced, self-propelled or transit frame.

RECLINING WHEELCHAIRS. The inclined backrest allows better head support and a more comfortable sitting position.

LIGHTWEIGHT WHEELCHAIRS. Often easier to fold and more portable than generic wheelchairs.

THE WIDTH OF THE SEAT :

The first thing you need to look at while looking for a wheelchair is the width of the seat. This is very important because there are many sizes ranging from 38cm to 60cm.

The most common are 40cm, 45cm, 50cm. To choose your size, examine the spaces where you will have to use it. For example the elevator doors , the bathroom doors, the width of the corridor, the capacity of your vehicle... 

Below you will find a small table to help you choose.

MAN

Weight between 75kg/90kg, height from 1.60 m to 1.80 m, 45cm seat 

                                                         height from 1.80 m to 1.95 m , 43cm seat

Weight between 85kg/100kg, height from 1.60m to 1.80m, 50 cm seat 

WOMEN

Weight between 50kg/70kg, height from 1.45m to 1.65m, 40cm seat 

                                                         height from 1.60 m to 1.80 m , 40cm seat

 Weight between 70kg/100kg, height from 1.45m to 1.65m, 50/55cm seat 

                                                            height from 1.65 m to 1.80 m , 43/45cm seat

 

Finally, don't forget to choose the footrests. They can be simple, or with support and elevation for resting the legs. Leg rests have a calf pad to elevate the legs and prevent swelling, or rest the leg in plaster in case of fractures. Both are removable and include adjustment of the leg rest length.