Manual wheelchairs versus power wheelchairs have become a great debate for those who are physically challenged. No matter what type of wheelchair a person chooses, the fact that they are readily available is truly amazing. Wheelchairs come in such a wide range of styles that a person may have difficulty choosing the right fit for their needs and their lifestyle. With so much useful information available on the internet, a person can do all the necessary research in order to decide if a manual or a power chair is right for them.
Manual wheelchairs do provide great advantages over power ones that many people overlook. For starters, lightweight wheelchairs are almost always manual. This can be a huge selling point for someone who does not possess a lot of body strength. They are easier to maneuver and even though power chairs do not have to be pushed, there is always the chance that the battery could die. Another advantage of manual wheelchairs is the fact that they can go almost anywhere. A person does not have to worry whether or not the terrain is bumpy or uneven, like they would with a power wheelchair.
One of the main disadvantages of using manual wheelchairs has to do with the upper body. Yes, the exercise is good for those who push themselves, however, over time this same motion can lead to injury; something that wheelchair users try to avoid whenever possible. Other disadvantages of a manual is having to inflate the tires and keeping the body of the chair in line. Many factors must be considered before a person can choose between a manual or a power chair.
Manual wheelchairs may not have all the bells and whistles that power ones offer to handicapped individuals, but they can prove to be cheaper and more efficient than the bulky power chairs. However, some insurance companies will not cover a motorized wheelchair and that can make choosing one all the more simple. No matter which type of wheelchair a person chooses, the fact that they have a selection to choose from is a great thing. Wheelchairs have come a long way from the three wheelers of years past and the more choices there are, the better!
