Tilting Wheelchairs

Tilting wheelchairs address a couple of needs which no other wheelchair style can do effectively.

Pressure Reduction - Tilting wheelchairs will tilt dynamically allowing for frequent changes in position which reduce the chances of getting pressure sores.

Positioning - The second benefit is that users with a kyphosis (forward curve in the upper spine) constantly face the floor when seated upright but when tilted back actually see what is going on around them.

Support - A third benefit of tilting wheelchairs affects a segment of the community who are not able to sit upright without some mechanical aid. When upright, many users require a combination of straps, pads and braces to restrain them from falling over in (or out of) their wheelchair. Often seating these people in a tilt wheelchair will negate the need for many of these restraint type supports.

Frame - With the exception of a couple of small pediatric tilt wheelchairs, this style of wheelchair will not fold. Their design makes them very heavy and difficult to lift or propel in spite of the fact most of the models are made of aluminum.

Upholstery - There are a few options for upholstery but most who require a tilt wheelchair will also require seating products which effectively hide the upholstery.

Armrests - Tilt wheelchairs can have full or desk length arms and they can be height adjustable or fixed height. A few models also offer flip back arms.

Footrests - Both regular footrests and elevating legrests are available with this style of wheelchair. There is a charge for the footrests on this type of wheelchair from most manufacturers however most dealers will blend the price of the most basic type into the cost of the wheelchair and give a discount if footrests are not needed or charge extra if legrests are needed.

Wheels & Casters - The options for wheel size and type are quite good on this style of chair. The rear wheels most commonly ordered in 22" and 24" but 20" and 26" are often available. The front casters are available in 6" or 8" diameters. Both rear wheels and caster are available with air or solid tires however casters almost always work better when they are solid.

Pros

• Excellent pressure reduction
• Very good for positioning
• Reduce need for restraints & supports
• Very comfortable

Cons

• Expensive ($2,500.00 - $5,500.00)
• Heavy
• Non-folding
• Difficult for users to propel