How to specify
and choose your Bariatric Wheelchair. Things to consider when buying a Bariatric
Wheelchair.
Get out and about in a Bariatric Wheelchair
Bariatric Wheelchairs by:
MSEC
According to the latest data from the National
Center for Health Statistics, 30 percent of American adults 20 years of age and
older (over 60 million people) are obese. This has placed a growing demand on
medical equipment manufacturers to develop bariatric wheelchairs and other
bariatric equipment specifically designed to meet the needs of obese patients.
At Medical Supplies and Equipment Company, we carry a wide variety of manual
bariatric wheelchairs and bariatric power wheelchairs to meet this demand.
Bariatric wheelchairs are designed to help the bariatric patient resume an
independent lifestyle while on the road to rehabilitation. The special needs of
a bariatric patient necessitate special design considerations in bariatric
wheelchairs. Bariatric wheelchairs need to accommodate more than just the weight
requirements of the bariatric patient, but width, length and depth requirements
as well. The bariatric wheelchairs in our inventory have taken these design
variables into consideration and we now have a line of bariatric wheelchairs to
meet the needs of every bariatric patient. Every bariatric wheelchair we carry
features a heavy duty frame made with superior welding technology, reinforced
padded upholstery for extra comfort, and heavy duty wheels with airless
pneumatic tires, among other special features.
With the many options available with bariatric wheelchairs, it is very important
to choose the right one. Below is a list that you or your healthcare provider
should consider before choosing a specific bariatric wheelchair model.
Body Weight
The model or design chosen needs to be able to support your maximum weight
potential. Therefore, when choosing one model over another, opt for the larger
size.
Seat Width
The width of your wheelchair should provide 1 to 2 inches of free space on both
sides of your body. This will accommodate winter clothing, shifting during
patient moves, pressure relief procedures, and other like activities.
Seat Height
To figure out the seat height you’ll need, place your feet flat on the floor,
ensure your shins are perpendicular to the floor, and measure from the back of
the heel to the underside of the knee.
Seat Depth
You should have approximately 1 to 2 inches of space between the back of your
knees and the front of the wheelchair seat. As well, the surface area of the
seat must support your entire gluteal area. For extra support, you may consider
purchasing a bariatric wheelchair cushion.
Backrest Height
The proper backrest height is necessary for providing pressure relief and
shoulder mobility while lowering potential back pain. The backrest should reach
your mid shoulder blade while supporting the apex of your back.
Armrest Height
To determine the necessary armrest height, measure the distance from your seat
to your forearm while it’s at a right angle. Proper armrest height will help
decrease neck and thoracic pain.
Tires
Solid, airless tires will provide increased durability, mobility, and a smoother
ride.
If you have respiratory problems, or another medical condition preventing you
from sitting upright, you should consider buying a reclining bariatric
wheelchair.
If you have cardiac problems or are unable to propel a wheelchair under your own
strength, it would be best to consider your options in bariatric power
wheelchairs.
It is our goal to be your exclusive provider for all of your bariatric equipment
needs. No matter if you have a need for bariatric beds, bariatric walkers,
bariatric commodes, bariatric wheelchair scales, or bariatric rollators, we have
attempted to meet all the equipment needs of the bariatric patient.
After browsing our on line inventory of bariatric wheelchairs and wheelchair
accessories, please don’t hesitate to call our customer service department toll
free at 1-877-706-4480 for any questions or further assistance.
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