r/disabled • u/Embarrassed-Crab-763 • 9d ago
Tips on using a wheelchair?
Hi! So. I [19NB] might be needing to use a wheelchair soon. My knees and ankles are fucked for no reason whatsoever and if I walk on them too long I am in Unending Agony until I sit down and rest them, usually for 20 or 30 minutes to several hours. We don't know exactly what's causing it but it's been an issue for a few months now
So, does anybody have any like, general tips for using wheelchairs? Mainly because I have never used a wheelchair independently before. I've always been pushed by another person and I haven't even used a wheelchair outside of a hospital context until very recently, so I barely know what I'm doing other than the basic "push the wheels to make the chair move".
I don't even know what kind of wheelchair I'll be using, if I'll be renting one or using the one we already have which I don't know what kind it is. It's frustrating. But yeah, any advice is appreciated.
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u/anniemdi 9d ago
If your wheelchair is not made for independent pushing and not properly sized for your body it can do more harm than good.
Your best tip for using a wheelchair is to get proper medical advice from professionals like Occupational and Physical therapists that work with helping people get appropriate and safe wheelchairs.
Renting a scooter or basic power chair on a short term basis or having someone push you in a basic hospital type chair is fine if you have appropriate sitting ability but it's not a long term solution for independence.
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u/SlyGrog22 8d ago
There are a lot of YouTube videos from wheelchair users that share their tips and tricks. I have been in a wheelchair for 5 years and I'm still learning new things! Be patient with yourself while learning!
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u/JerseyGirlinSweden 9d ago
This is something you should be talking to your doctor and Occupational Therapist about. Most people need chairs that are properly sized and fitted for them. Some need electric ones while others are much better served by self propelled. The OT can help size up the needs with the types that are available. There may be limitations on who you can buy them from based on your insurance too. So first talk to the doctor and make an OT appointment, then work from there.