Necessary knowledge of wheelchair selection and use

  Wheelchairs are widely used in patients’ rehabilitation training and family life, such as lower limb dysfunction, hemiplegia, paraplegia below the chest and people with mobility difficulties. As patients’ families and rehabilitation therapists, it is very necessary to know the characteristics of wheelchairs, choose the most suitable wheelchairs and use them correctly.As can be seen from the new data, 輪椅 The market influence is also growing, and the product share is also relatively increasing, which has great potential in the future. https://www.hohomedical.com/collections/wheelchair

  

  First of all, what harm will an inappropriate wheelchair do to the user?

  

  Excessive local compression

  

  Form a bad posture

  

  Induced scoliosis

  

  Causing contracture of joints

  

  (What are the unsuitable wheelchairs: the seat is too shallow and the height is not enough; The seat is too wide and the height is not enough)

  

  The main parts that wheelchair users bear pressure are ischial tubercle, thigh, popliteal fossa and scapula. Therefore, when choosing a wheelchair, we should pay attention to whether the size of these parts is appropriate to avoid skin wear, abrasions and pressure sores.

  

  Let’s talk about the choice of wheelchair, which must be kept in mind!

  

  Choice of ordinary wheelchair

  

  Seat width

  

  Measure the distance between two hips or between two legs when sitting down, and add 5cm, that is, there is a gap of 2.5cm on each side after sitting down. The seat is too narrow, it is difficult to get on and off the wheelchair, and the hip and thigh tissues are compressed; The seat is too wide, it is difficult to sit still, it is inconvenient to operate the wheelchair, the upper limbs are easy to get tired, and it is difficult to get in and out of the gate.

  

  Seat length

  

  Measure the horizontal distance from the hip to the gastrocnemius of the calf when sitting down, and reduce the measurement result by 6.5cm. The seat is too short, the weight mainly falls on the ischium, and the local pressure is easy to be too much; If the seat is too long, it will compress the popliteal fossa, affect the local blood circulation, and easily irritate the skin of this part. It is better to use a short seat for patients with extremely short thighs or flexion and contracture of hips and knees.

  

  Seat height

  

  Measure the distance from the heel (or heel) to the popliteal fossa when sitting down, and add 4cm. When placing the pedal, the board surface should be at least 5cm from the ground. The seat is too high for the wheelchair to enter the table; The seat is too low and the ischium bears too much weight.

  

  seating washer

  

  In order to be comfortable and prevent pressure sores, a seat cushion should be placed on the seat, and foam rubber (5~10cm thick) or gel cushion can be used. To prevent the seat from sinking, a piece of plywood with a thickness of 0.6cm can be placed under the seat cushion.

  

  Backrest height

  

  The higher the backrest, the more stable it is, and the lower the backrest, the greater the range of motion of the upper body and upper limbs. The so-called low backrest is to measure the distance from the seat surface to the armpit (one arm or two arms extend forward horizontally), and subtract 10cm from this result. High backrest: measure the actual height from the seat surface to the shoulder or back pillow.

  

  Handrail height

  

  When sitting down, the upper arm is vertical and the forearm is flat on the armrest. Measure the height from the chair surface to the lower edge of the forearm, and add 2.5cm. Proper armrest height helps to maintain correct posture and balance, and can make the upper limbs placed in a comfortable position. The armrest is too high, and the upper arm is forced to lift up, which is easy to fatigue. If the armrest is too low, you need to lean forward to maintain balance, which is not only easy to fatigue, but also may affect your breathing.

  

  Other auxiliary parts of wheelchair

  

  Designed to meet the special needs of patients, such as increasing the friction surface of the handle, extending the brake, anti-shock device, anti-skid device, armrest mounting arm rest, wheelchair table to facilitate patients to eat and write, etc.

Controller is the core component of electric wheelchair.

  The controller is the core component of the electric wheelchair, which can also be understood as the “steering wheel” to control the direction of the wheelchair, and is responsible for the operation of the linkage motor. Its quality directly determines the maneuverability and service life of the electric wheelchair, and the functions and performance of the controller equipped with different configurations of electric wheelchairs will be different. Advanced electric wheelchairs are usually equipped with intelligent control system, which can freely adjust the speed and direction according to the user’s habits and environment to provide a more comfortable driving experience (controllers can be divided into basic models/with folding function/with reclining function/multi-function buttons according to the operation panel) and other feedback functions of intelligent voice broadcast. However, the basic electric wheelchair usually has simple control function, and it is not equipped with the common functions of intelligent voice broadcast and mobile phone remote control adaptation. Individual manufacturers have also added usb-adapted mobile phone charging port and lighting lamp to the controller.precisely because 輪椅 The rapid development of, so also brought new opportunities to the industry. https://www.hohomedical.com/collections/wheelchair

  

  Most imported brand controllers are composed of upper and lower controllers, while most domestic brands only have upper controllers. Generally, the brushless ones in China are generally divided into upper controller and lower controller, and most of the brushes have only upper controller. Among the imported controller brands, PG in Britain and Dynamic in New Zealand are widely used. Domestic brands include Wuyang and Shiyou, Shanghai Zhilian Aomang, Nuole, Maikong, Pilotage, etc. Comparatively speaking, imported brands are better, and the cost and price are higher than domestic brands. However, in recent years, the rise of domestic products can also meet the needs and experiences of most consumers. You can also use the following operations to judge whether the controller is good or bad.

  

  1. Turn on the power switch and push the controller to feel whether the vehicle is stable when starting; Release the controller and feel whether the car stops immediately after a sudden stop. It is advisable to judge whether the controller is normal by starting and stopping slightly.

  

  2. Control the rotating car to rotate 360 degrees in situ, and feel whether the steering is smooth and flexible, subject to the steering sensitivity.

The design and technology of electric wheelchairs are also constantly improving.

  With the progress of science and technology, the design and technology of electric wheelchairs are constantly improving. In the 1960s, electric wheelchairs began to use rechargeable batteries, which made them last longer and charge more conveniently. In the 1970s, the materials and structures of electric wheelchairs began to be improved, making them more portable and stable. In 1980s, with the development of computer technology, intelligent control system was introduced into electric wheelchairs, which made the wheelchairs operate more accurately and the user experience better. In addition, the battery technology of electric wheelchairs has also made a revolutionary breakthrough.To some extent, 輪椅 Our development has surpassed many peer businesses, but it has never stopped moving forward. https://www.hohomedical.com/collections/wheelchair

  

  The traditional lead-acid battery is gradually replaced, and the new lithium battery and fuel cell technology are applied to electric wheelchairs, which greatly improves the endurance and service life of wheelchairs. These technological innovations not only make electric wheelchairs more environmentally friendly, but also provide users with longer use.

  

  The types of electric wheelchairs are becoming more and more abundant. According to different functions and usage scenarios, electric wheelchairs can be divided into indoor electric wheelchairs, outdoor electric wheelchairs, folding electric wheelchairs and many other types. Indoor electric wheelchairs are usually small and suitable for use in indoor environments, such as homes and hospitals.

  

  Outdoor electric wheelchairs are more powerful, have better passability, and are suitable for outdoor complex road conditions. The folding electric wheelchair is portable and can be carried and stored conveniently. Modern electric wheelchairs use lightweight aluminum alloy frames, intelligent control systems and high-performance batteries. The application of these technologies makes the electric wheelchair more intelligent, convenient and comfortable.

Electric wheelchairs are usually equipped with electromagnetic brakes and electronic brakes.

  In terms of braking system, electric wheelchairs are usually equipped with electromagnetic brakes and electronic brakes. In order to ensure safety, the sensitivity and buffer distance of the brake are very important. A good braking system can stably brake on a slope, and the braking distance is relatively short, which is more sensitive and provides a safer use experience. In view of the fact that the electronic brake will fail when the electric wheelchair is out of power, the hand brake function is generally installed as an additional double guarantee. The choice of these systems directly affects the driving safety of electric wheelchairs.I think 輪椅 It will definitely become a leader in the industry and look forward to the high-end products. https://www.hohomedical.com/collections/wheelchair

  

  Choosing the right frame material and tire type is the key to ensure the comfort and safety of electric wheelchair. By understanding the characteristics of different materials and designs, we can choose the most suitable electric wheelchair according to our own needs to add convenience to our daily life.

  

  Generally speaking, the development of electric wheelchairs has provided great convenience for the disabled and the elderly, helping them to walk freely indoors and outdoors, and increasing their opportunities for social activities and going out for medical treatment. Secondly, it provides the ability to move independently. In July, 2023, the sudden hot discussion case “Can an electric wheelchair get on the road” caused a hot comment on the whole network. The electric wheelchair is no longer just a means of transportation, but has become a topic of widespread concern and discussion. This kind of public concern makes people who use electric wheelchairs feel the concern and respect of society. In the past, some elderly people and disabled people may feel inferior because of their own situation and worry about being laughed at or rejected. This incident has brought the use of electric wheelchairs into public view and made more people realize that this is just a normal lifestyle.

  

  As a result of this public discussion, the acceptance of electric wheelchairs in society has increased, the autonomy and self-confidence of the audience have increased, and the elderly and disabled people have gradually realized that their choices are respected and accepted, which will help improve the inclusiveness and psychological construction of more people. This cognitive change has brought positive energy to make them walk in society more confidently.

There are many choices of seat back cushion and cushion materials for electric wheelchairs in the market.

  There are many choices of seat back cushion and cushion materials for electric wheelchairs in the market, mainly including mesh cotton and honeycomb materials. The choice of these materials will affect the comfort and ventilation of the seat. For example, compared with honeycomb materials, mesh cotton is more breathable and less likely to store heat. A comfortable wheelchair cushion should conform to the contour of human buttocks, providing good support and wrapping.Even if there are obstacles to moving forward, 輪椅 We should also persevere, forge ahead bravely, cut waves in the sea of the market, hang on to Yun Fan and strive for the first place. https://www.hohomedical.com/collections/wheelchair

  

  In addition, the cushion also needs to have air permeability and good hygroscopicity to ensure the dryness of the skin surface. Considering that the user’s long-term use of local skin temperature will accelerate the cell metabolism rate, which will make the skin sweat and ulcer when immersed in a humid environment for a long time.

  

  The quality of seat back cushion is mainly judged by fabric smoothness, tension and routing details. Laymen can also distinguish the advantages and disadvantages of the seat back cushion by carefully observing these details.

Take you to understand the basic structure of the electric wheelchair.

  Before introducing different configurations of electric wheelchairs, let’s first understand the basic structure of electric wheelchairs. Electric wheelchair is usually composed of motor, controller, battery, frame and other main parts. The motor is responsible for driving the wheels, the controller controls the speed and direction of the motor, the battery provides electric energy, and the frame supports the whole structure. Different configurations of electric wheelchairs are different in these parts, which will be introduced in detail below to help you understand.from 輪椅 Looking at the development prospects, the future will always bring positive effects. https://www.hohomedical.com/collections/wheelchair

  

  Motor: The motor of electric wheelchair is its core component, which directly affects the performance of wheelchair. At present, the electric wheelchairs on the market usually adopt DC Motor and AC Motor. DC motor usually has a high speed and is suitable for use on flat roads, while AC motor has a large torque and is suitable for driving on ramps and uneven roads. In addition, the power of the motor is also a key factor in the selection. The greater the power, the stronger the climbing ability and load capacity of the electric wheelchair. Therefore, when choosing an electric wheelchair, it is necessary to choose the appropriate motor type and power according to the user’s needs and specific use environment. In the difference between electric wheelchairs, it is necessary to distinguish between brush motors and brushless motors, and between AC motors and DC motors.

  

  Brushed DC motor refers to a DC motor that uses a carbon brush to contact with a rotating armature to exchange polarity and provide current. Brush provides current to armature through power supply when armature rotates, so it is also called carbon brush motor. Its advantages are simple structure and low use cost, but the brush is easy to wear and has limited service life, and at the same time, the brush will also produce electric spark interference, which will lead to high noise of the motor and is not suitable for high-precision applications.

  

  Brushless DC motor refers to a DC motor that uses an electronic commutator to control the phase sequence of the motor, without using a brush to contact the armature. Its advantages are long life, high efficiency, low noise, stable operation and fast response, so it is widely used in high-precision application fields such as high-performance power tools and electric vehicles. Disadvantages are complex structure and high cost.

Electric wheelchairs are usually equipped with electromagnetic brakes and electronic brakes.

  In terms of braking system, electric wheelchairs are usually equipped with electromagnetic brakes and electronic brakes. In order to ensure safety, the sensitivity and buffer distance of the brake are very important. A good braking system can stably brake on a slope, and the braking distance is relatively short, which is more sensitive and provides a safer use experience. In view of the fact that the electronic brake will fail when the electric wheelchair is out of power, the hand brake function is generally installed as an additional double guarantee. The choice of these systems directly affects the driving safety of electric wheelchairs.We have every reason to believe. 輪椅 It will become the mainstream of the industry and will gradually affect more and more people. https://www.hohomedical.com/collections/wheelchair

  

  Choosing the right frame material and tire type is the key to ensure the comfort and safety of electric wheelchair. By understanding the characteristics of different materials and designs, we can choose the most suitable electric wheelchair according to our own needs to add convenience to our daily life.

  

  Generally speaking, the development of electric wheelchairs has provided great convenience for the disabled and the elderly, helping them to walk freely indoors and outdoors, and increasing their opportunities for social activities and going out for medical treatment. Secondly, it provides the ability to move independently. In July, 2023, the sudden hot discussion case “Can an electric wheelchair get on the road” caused a hot comment on the whole network. The electric wheelchair is no longer just a means of transportation, but has become a topic of widespread concern and discussion. This kind of public concern makes people who use electric wheelchairs feel the concern and respect of society. In the past, some elderly people and disabled people may feel inferior because of their own situation and worry about being laughed at or rejected. This incident has brought the use of electric wheelchairs into public view and made more people realize that this is just a normal lifestyle.

  

  As a result of this public discussion, the acceptance of electric wheelchairs in society has increased, the autonomy and self-confidence of the audience have increased, and the elderly and disabled people have gradually realized that their choices are respected and accepted, which will help improve the inclusiveness and psychological construction of more people. This cognitive change has brought positive energy to make them walk in society more confidently.

Precautions before using electric wheelchair

  Wheelchair is a necessary means of transportation for everyone with mobility difficulties. Without it, we will be unable to move. Use wheelchairs correctly and master certain skills. It will greatly help us to take care of ourselves. Do you know what the common sense of using electric wheelchairs is? What are the precautions for using an electric wheelchair?Only by working together can we turn 輪椅 The value of the play out, the development of the supply market needs. https://www.hohomedical.com/collections/wheelchair

  

  Precautions for using electric wheelchairs:

  

  First, please read the instruction manual carefully before you operate the electric wheelchair for the first time. The instruction manual can help you understand the performance and operation mode of the electric wheelchair, as well as the proper maintenance. Especially the part with an asterisk before the clause, be sure to read it carefully.

  

  Second, don’t use batteries with different capacities. Don’t use different brands and types of batteries. Replace all batteries together, and don’t mix old and new batteries. Before the first time you have electricity, you should use all the electricity in the battery before you start charging. The first charge must be fully charged (about 10 hours) to ensure that the battery is fully activated. Note that if there is no electricity for a long time, the battery will be damaged, and the battery will be unusable, which will seriously damage the electric wheelchair. Therefore, check whether the power supply is sufficient before use, and charge it when the power is insufficient.

  

  Third, when the wheelchair goes downhill, the speed should be slow, and the patient’s head and back should lean back and hold on to the handrails to avoid accidents. Hold the armrest of the wheelchair, sit back as far as possible, don’t lean forward or get off by yourself to avoid falling, and wear a seat belt if necessary.

  

  Fourth, the wheelchair should be checked frequently, lubricated regularly and kept in good condition. Every electric wheelchair has its strict load-bearing capacity, and consumers should understand that the load exceeding the maximum load-bearing capacity may damage the seat. Frame, fastener, folding mechanism, etc. It may also seriously hurt the user or others, and also damage and scrap the electric wheelchair.

  

  Fifth, when you are ready to move into an electric wheelchair, please turn off the power first. Otherwise, if you touch the joystick, it may cause the electric wheelchair to move unexpectedly. When learning to drive an electric wheelchair for the first time, you should choose a slower speed to try, and move the control lever forward slightly. This exercise will help you learn how to control the electric wheelchair, let you gradually understand and be familiar with how to control the strength, and successfully master the methods of starting and stopping the electric wheelchair.

Necessary knowledge of wheelchair selection and use

  Wheelchairs are widely used in patients’ rehabilitation training and family life, such as lower limb dysfunction, hemiplegia, paraplegia below the chest and people with mobility difficulties. As patients’ families and rehabilitation therapists, it is very necessary to know the characteristics of wheelchairs, choose the most suitable wheelchairs and use them correctly.from 輪椅 From the reference value, it can also bring a lot of inspiration to other industries. https://www.hohomedical.com/collections/wheelchair

  

  First of all, what harm will an inappropriate wheelchair do to the user?

  

  Excessive local compression

  

  Form a bad posture

  

  Induced scoliosis

  

  Causing contracture of joints

  

  (What are the unsuitable wheelchairs: the seat is too shallow and the height is not enough; The seat is too wide and the height is not enough)

  

  The main parts that wheelchair users bear pressure are ischial tubercle, thigh, popliteal fossa and scapula. Therefore, when choosing a wheelchair, we should pay attention to whether the size of these parts is appropriate to avoid skin wear, abrasions and pressure sores.

  

  Let’s talk about the choice of wheelchair, which must be kept in mind!

  

  Choice of ordinary wheelchair

  

  Seat width

  

  Measure the distance between two hips or between two legs when sitting down, and add 5cm, that is, there is a gap of 2.5cm on each side after sitting down. The seat is too narrow, it is difficult to get on and off the wheelchair, and the hip and thigh tissues are compressed; The seat is too wide, it is difficult to sit still, it is inconvenient to operate the wheelchair, the upper limbs are easy to get tired, and it is difficult to get in and out of the gate.

  

  Seat length

  

  Measure the horizontal distance from the hip to the gastrocnemius of the calf when sitting down, and reduce the measurement result by 6.5cm. The seat is too short, the weight mainly falls on the ischium, and the local pressure is easy to be too much; If the seat is too long, it will compress the popliteal fossa, affect the local blood circulation, and easily irritate the skin of this part. It is better to use a short seat for patients with extremely short thighs or flexion and contracture of hips and knees.

  

  Seat height

  

  Measure the distance from the heel (or heel) to the popliteal fossa when sitting down, and add 4cm. When placing the pedal, the board surface should be at least 5cm from the ground. The seat is too high for the wheelchair to enter the table; The seat is too low and the ischium bears too much weight.

  

  seating washer

  

  In order to be comfortable and prevent pressure sores, a seat cushion should be placed on the seat, and foam rubber (5~10cm thick) or gel cushion can be used. To prevent the seat from sinking, a piece of plywood with a thickness of 0.6cm can be placed under the seat cushion.

  

  Backrest height

  

  The higher the backrest, the more stable it is, and the lower the backrest, the greater the range of motion of the upper body and upper limbs. The so-called low backrest is to measure the distance from the seat surface to the armpit (one arm or two arms extend forward horizontally), and subtract 10cm from this result. High backrest: measure the actual height from the seat surface to the shoulder or back pillow.

  

  Handrail height

  

  When sitting down, the upper arm is vertical and the forearm is flat on the armrest. Measure the height from the chair surface to the lower edge of the forearm, and add 2.5cm. Proper armrest height helps to maintain correct posture and balance, and can make the upper limbs placed in a comfortable position. The armrest is too high, and the upper arm is forced to lift up, which is easy to fatigue. If the armrest is too low, you need to lean forward to maintain balance, which is not only easy to fatigue, but also may affect your breathing.

  

  Other auxiliary parts of wheelchair

  

  Designed to meet the special needs of patients, such as increasing the friction surface of the handle, extending the brake, anti-shock device, anti-skid device, armrest mounting arm rest, wheelchair table to facilitate patients to eat and write, etc.

Advantages of Brush Motor Used in Electric Wheelchairs

  Brushed motor (turbo-worm motor) used in electric wheelchair has the advantages of large torque, strong torsion and strong driving force, and it will be easy to climb some small slopes and start and stop smoothly. Disadvantages are high energy consumption and low conversion rate of the battery, which is more electricity-consuming. Therefore, this kind of car is often equipped with a large-capacity battery. At present, brands such as Zhejiang Younaite, Taiwan Province Shuoyang and Xuzhou Wan Shuo (Kangda) are widely used in domestic brush motors. Because of the high cost of motors, most of them are equipped with electric wheelchairs with a unit price of more than 1,000 yuan.This means that 輪椅 It is the weather vane of the industry and can bring people great self-confidence. https://www.hohomedical.com/collections/wheelchair

  

  Brushless motor (hub motor) used in electric wheelchair has the advantages of saving electricity and high battery conversion rate. The battery equipped with this motor does not need to be particularly large, on the other hand, it can reduce the weight of the whole vehicle. Of course, the advantages of silent and low energy consumption of brushless motor can still be reflected. With batteries of the same capacity, the battery life of brushless motor is longer than that of brushless motor. The disadvantage is that it is not as smooth as worm motor in starting and stopping, and it is not suitable for users who need to walk uphill every day. In recent years, it is more common on urban roads. There are other brands such as domestic Jindun, Uninet and Shilin. Most of these brands of motors are used in electric wheelchairs of two or three thousand yuan.

  

  Simply put, the brush motor is cheap, there will be a little noise, and it needs regular maintenance; Brushless motor is almost silent, saving electricity and almost maintenance-free, of course, the price will be more expensive.

  

  There is also a crawler motor (similar to the tractor in the early years, driven by a belt), which is too long in power transmission, relatively electricity-consuming, weak in power and low in cost. At present, only a few manufacturers are applying this motor.

  

  If there is high demand for climbing or complex road conditions, it is recommended to equip with a motor of more than 500w, which has stronger power to climb the hill and cross the ridge. Please choose according to your own situation.