FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are some of the 'must-have' wheelchair accessories?
Every year, wheelchair supply companies introduce new products that can add comfort and convenience to wheelchair use. This constant flow of wheelchair accessories into the market gives you an inexpensive way to improve your wheelchair experience. Among the many products, some of the most popular must-have wheelchair accessories are beverage holders, body harnesses, wheelchair covers, wheelchair desks, automatic door openers, wheelchair pouches, cushions, wheelchair gloves, push bars, and access tables. In the mobility area, the must-haves are wheel ramps, caster wheels, wheelchair batteries, and wheelchair transfer boards.
What are the best cushions and pads for wheelchairs?
There is no uniform solution for selecting the best cushions and pads for wheelchairs because wheelchair users have individual needs. However, the two primary considerations in determining the best cushions and pads for a person are cushion shape and cushion material. Including these factors in choosing the best cushion or pad option can provide long-term benefits and injury prevention.
The most common wheelchair cushion shape is the saddle-shaped option, like the Gel-E3 wheelchair cushion with Gel Bladder. This gel cushion offers you maximum weight distribution and stability. Alternatively, pommel and wedged-shaped cushions like the Amara 450 Pressure Relief Wheelchair Cushion help you support posture and body alignment issues like hip rotation and spinal or abduction problems. Also, anti-thrust cushions and pads prevent you from sliding.
Foam, Gel, and Air cushions are materials that increase your comfort level and well-being. Each type has a unique set of benefits. For example, gel cushions like the EquaGel Protector Wheelchair Gel Seat Cushion excel at regulating your body temperature and reducing moisture buildup, while foam cushions are the best for pressure management and offloading properties.
What are wheelchair gloves used for?
Wheelchair gloves shield and protect your hands during wheelchair use. These gloves also help keep your hands stable as you operate a wheelchair. Many wheelchair gloves like the Adult Pushing Cuffs have extra traction tread and other features for pushing manual wheelchairs. If your hands are prone to injury, gloves give you added protection, especially for the CMJ joint. Choosing gloves with the proper fit can help you prevent blisters and calluses from forming from pushing your wheelchair around. Before you start shopping, you should consult your doctor to determine which gloves are more suitable for your medical conditions.
Are leg rests universal?
Although some leg and footrests have universal attachments, not all leg rests are universal. But some standard wheelchair leg rests are compatible with most wheelchairs. Also, there are no universal height or size adjustments for wheelchair leg rests because users require individual adjustments.
Many wheelchair leg rests are adjustable, removable, and have accommodations for wheelchair accessories. These features are necessary to prevent you from suffering back pain, pressure sores, and gastrointestinal problems.
Does Medicare cover wheelchair ramps?
Unfortunately, Medicare defines wheelchair ramps as home modifications, not durable medical equipment (DME). Medicare doesn't cover home modifications. As a result, you can’t get coverage for wheelchair ramps. However, you can look for funding for a wheelchair ramp through the National Rehabilitation Information Center. Also, you may find funding for your ramp from vocational rehabilitation agencies and local volunteer organizations.
How do I know which replacement tires I need for my wheelchair?
Finding out which wheelchair replacement tire you need is the same method you use to find a replacement tire for a car or bicycle. You may need a flashlight to see the size and style number on the side ribbon of your existing tire. Like on a bicycle tire, the numbers should read something like 23 x 1-3/8" or 24 x 1". Copy the numbers on the tire on a piece of paper or your cell phone before contacting the manufacturer to reorder.
If you want to shop for wheelchair replacement tires, online medical equipment supply retailers like Allegro Medical can offer the replacement tire you need. For example, Allegro Medical has High-Performance Primo Racer Wheelchair Tires (24 x 2"). It also offers a broader range of wheelchair safety products and supplies.
MEDICAL ADVICE DISCLAIMER
The information, including but not limited to text, graphics, images, charts, and any other material on this site, is intended for informational purposes only and does not take the place of medical guidance provided by your physician. No information on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified medical professional about your condition or circumstances before undertaking a new healthcare regimen.