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What is a
Customized Wheelchair

A customized wheelchair is one that has been customized to meet their individual needs. It is either propelled by a person or a motor. The apparatus is specific to the physical needs of the individual and is most important for their comfort and posture. A customized stroller is an apparatus for every child, which will meet the needs of the child and the parent/guardian.

What Is a Customized Wheelchair Prescription?

A wheelchair prescription is given to people by a doctor who must first assess a patient’s ability to walk and move before he or she provides a wheelchair prescription. There are many types of wheelchairs: manual wheelchairs are pushed or operated solely by the arms of the user, power wheelchairs can be operated electronically. The doctor will determine which best fits the needs of the patient.

Who Benefits from a Customized Wheelchair Prescription?

Patients with temporary or permanent disabilities can benefit from a wheelchair prescription. For instance, paraplegic experiences no feeling in their legs and may require a wheelchair for the rest of their life. A person with broken bones may need a wheelchair prescription until the injuries have healed.

Wheelchair prescriptions are based on individual needs, and several factors are considered. People with the following conditions may benefit from a wheelchair prescription:

  • paralysis
  • musculoskeletal issues
  • neurological issues
  • balance or gait problems
  • inability to walk for long distances

How to Choose a Customized Wheelchair

If a doctor determines that you will benefit from using a wheelchair; then your prescription and supporting medical information will be sent to an insurer-approved wheelchair supplier.

A Customized Wheelchair design and usability vary greatly, but the two major types of wheelchairs are manual and electric. Manual customized wheelchairs are less expensive than electric ones but can still be quite costly.

With a prescription, some insurance companies will cover the cost of a customized wheelchair. A customized wheelchair needs to properly fit the person using it and include all necessary features. Your doctors and other medical professionals will help decide what wheelchair is best for you. They will consider your condition, age, size, strength, mobility, lifestyle, home environment, budget, and personal preferences. The chair will be fitted to your needs and body; including seat height, leg rests, backrest angle, and arm positioning.

How to Use a Customized Wheelchair

After you get a wheelchair prescription and the right chair, you may need instruction on using the chair. If necessary, medical professionals can help you learn how to navigate various terrains. Therapy may include practice moving on different kinds of surfaces, over curbs, through doorways, forward, backward, and so on. If the chair has electric controls, some instruction on their use may be necessary. Beyond moving in the wheelchair, you may need to learn how to get in and out of the chair, what to do if you begin to fall, and other skills that are relevant to your situation.

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