Manual wheelchairs

One-arm-drive wheelchairs

These wheelchairs can be manoeuvred using only one hand as the left and right wheel axles are linked. On one wheel, there is a double handrim which propels the chair forward. When the user just uses one of the rims it turns the chair.

This mechanism creates extra weight and the user needs extra strength and coordination to use such a system. Slopes and hills are very difficult to negotiate. Another problem to face is the position of a brake on the 'weaker' side which requires the user to stretch across to operate.

Close window

Independent Living home page