How Does Custom wheelchair wheels Work?

Wheelchairs have evolved significantly in the past few decades, transitioning from basic mobility aids into sophisticated devices with myriad modifications and adjustments that can be personally tailored to an individual's needs.

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This evolution has introduced the terms "custom wheelchair" and "customizable wheelchair", often used interchangeably despite having distinct meanings.

In this guide, we'll explain each term and the benefits of both custom and customizable wheelchairs.

Understanding Custom vs. Customizable Wheelchairs

The terms "custom" and "customizable" are frequently used in the wheelchair industry, sometimes interchangeably, leading to confusion.

However, they represent different levels of personalization. In layman's terms, a customizable wheelchair is a bit like an off-the-rack suit. It's offered in a variety of sizes with different waist and leg lengths or jacket sizes, with or without vests and in different colours.

Whereas a custom wheelchair is more akin to a bespoke suit where a tailor measures an individual who chooses the fabric, cut and style of the suit for themselves.

Custom Wheelchairs:

A custom wheelchair is a device that is adapted and modified to accommodate an individual's specific disability. They are often modified from the 'ground up', starting with a custom base and incorporating different cushions, frames and other advanced technologies.

Custom wheelchairs are specified through Complex Rehab Technology (CRT), a process which often requires input from a doctor, therapist and an Assistive Technology Professional (ATP). This includes a thorough analysis of an individual's specific disability and an understanding of their lifestyle and requirements.

Unlike a standard wheelchair, a custom wheelchair cannot be used - or adaptable for use - by another individual.

The Ohio Code defines a custom wheelchair as

&#;A wheelchair that has a customized seating system. A custom wheelchair, therefore, cannot be easily used or adapted for use by another individual.&#;

Customizable Wheelchairs:

Unlike custom wheelchairs, customizable wheelchairs are often offered as standard models with a range of adjustable features and options such as seat width, backrest height and wheel types.

Whilst they offer similar benefits to custom wheelchairs, customizable wheelchairs can be ordered without CRT and do not offer the same wide range of customisation opportunities that truly custom wheelchairs offer.

Customizable wheelchairs are also referred to as 'configurable wheelchairs' and can be ordered to your specifications.

Benefits of Custom and Customizable Wheelchairs

Both custom and customizable wheelchairs offer unique advantages.

Custom Wheelchairs

Custom wheelchairs offer the most benefits to patients with complex needs. For example, an individual with advanced-stage muscular dystrophy might benefit from a chair with advanced tilt-in-space or recline features, whereas a wheelchair user with severe scoliosis or kyphosis might benefit from a contoured seating system.

Benefits include:

• Optimal Fit and Comfort: Tailored to the user's exact body measurements, custom wheelchairs provide unparalleled comfort and support, reducing the risk of pressure sores and other complications.

• Enhanced Functionality: Designed to meet specific functional needs, these wheelchairs can incorporate specialized controls, seating systems, and other features to accommodate various disabilities.

• Improved Mobility: With components like lightweight frames and ergonomic designs, custom wheelchairs can enhance propulsion efficiency, making it easier for users to navigate their environments.

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Read more: The Benefits of a Custom Wheelchair

Customizable Wheelchairs

The benefits of customizable wheelchairs tend to be felt by a broader audience. For example, even an occasional wheelchair user or an individual with only partially limited mobility may still benefit from a lightweight frame.

Benefits include:

• Flexibility: Users can adjust various features to suit their preferences, allowing for modifications as their needs evolve.

• Cost-Effectiveness: Generally more affordable than fully custom-built options, customizable wheelchairs offer a balance between personalization and budget considerations.

• Accessibility: With a wide range of models and options available, users can find customizable wheelchairs that meet their needs without the extended lead times often associated with custom builds.

Key Features to Consider in a Customizable Wheelchair

When choosing a wheelchair, whether it's custom or customizable, several key features should be carefully considered to ensure the best fit for the user&#;s needs.

One of the most important aspects is the frame type. Wheelchairs typically come with either a rigid or folding frame. Rigid frames are known for their stability and efficiency, providing a solid structure that is particularly beneficial for active users who prioritize performance. On the other hand, folding frames are designed for convenience, making them easier to transport and store, which is ideal for users who travel frequently or need to stow the chair in tight spaces.

Another critical element to consider is seating and positioning. Proper seating is vital not only for comfort but also for overall health, as it can help prevent pressure sores and improve posture. Users often have the option to adjust the seat depth, backrest angle, and choose from various cushioning materials to ensure optimal support. This level of customization is particularly beneficial for individuals who spend extended periods in their wheelchair, as it helps maintain proper alignment and reduces the risk of discomfort or pressure-related injuries.

Wheel and tire options also play a significant role in determining how the wheelchair handles different terrains. The choice of wheel size and tire type can greatly affect the chair&#;s maneuverability and the smoothness of the ride. For instance, pneumatic tires, which are air-filled, provide a softer and smoother ride on uneven surfaces, making them ideal for outdoor use. However, they do require regular maintenance to prevent flats. In contrast, solid tires are maintenance-free and more durable, but they offer a firmer ride, which might not be as comfortable on rough terrain.

Understanding the distinction between custom and customizable wheelchairs is essential for selecting the right mobility solution.

The benefits of adjustability typically have a cost trade-off.  If you&#;re someone looking for a wheelchair, or you&#;re a therapist prescribing chairs, you&#;re probably asking yourself &#; what are the benefits of adjustability and are they worth the trade-offs?   This blog will explore the topic.

To begin with, let&#;s explore which wheelchair aspects can be customized on assembly.  You might be surprised to know that there are over a dozen wheelchair parameters that can be altered:

• Seat depth &#; the length of the seat from front to back
• Rear seat to floor height &#; the distance from the back of the upholstery to the floor
• Back angle &#; the angle of the backrest of the chair
• Weight capacity &#; adjustments to the structure to accommodate more client weight
• Seat Width &#; the distance from one side of the seat to the other
• Back height &#; the length of the backrest
• Wheel camber &#; the angle of the wheels inward
• Overall width &#; the distance from one side of chair to the other
• Front seat to floor &#; the distance from the front of the upholstery to the floor
• Footrest angle &#; the angle of the footrest
• Center of gravity &#; adjusting the chair center with the wheels
• Armrest height &#; the position of the armrests in relation to the chair height

The benefits of a custom-made wheelchair

So now that we know which wheelchair elements can be modified, let&#;s explore why you might want to modify them.

If you&#;re ever sat in a vehicle for long periods of time, you know that small issues with the car seat adjustment can cause significant back issues and muscle cramping in the neck, shoulders, legs and lower torso.   The same holds true for wheelchair users and these problems are exacerbated by the fact that, in many cases, stretching can be difficult or impossible.   Wheelchair users also spend much more time in their chair as a general rule.   Small issues with fit can cause potential health problems to be exacerbated over time.    The user may experience persistent and worsening health issues and may be unaware that the root cause is the wheelchair.

Many of our users have described significant and noticeable improvements to their health moving from a one-size fits all chair to a fully custom-fit Motion Composites chair. These benefits can include increased independence and decreased fatigue, returning to activities they previously were not able to. Other benefits can include decreased upper extremity pain or injury resulting from proper set-up for improved mechanical advantage of propulsion. A manual wheelchair with proper user fit, allowing proper positioning and propulsion technique translates into general overall satisfaction with equipment.

Making the switch to a fully customized, ultra-light wheelchair may cost more, however the benefits are clear.    There are few items that are as vital and important to someone that is disabled than a wheelchair that will help them to be comfortable and aid in the rehabilitation process as much as possible.  

All of Motion Composites chairs are built-to-order and there is a wide range of different models to choose from at various price points.    Every chair is built with extreme attention to detail and with the end user&#;s comfort, mobility and rehabilitation needs in mind.