The History of Wheelchair

A wheelchair is basically a chair with some wheels attached that can be used by its user to wheel around through manual or electric propulsion. The main function of a wheelchair is to help to transport people who have problems in walking because of sickness, injury, or other disability. Based on records, a wheelchair is being used for the first time in England in 1670s. After that, it starts becoming well-known in Europe during German Renaissance.

The basic and standard design of a wheelchair is that it has a seat, a back, two small front wheels, two large back wheels, and a footrest. Of course there are many variations of this design because a wheelchair usually is customized to suit the preferences and the needs of its users. There are many accessories that can be added to a wheelchair, such as safety belts and adjustable backrests. The types of wheel also have several variations, such as the omniwheel and mecanum wheel that can give directional options.

You also can choose between manual and power wheelchair. The manual type can be stored easily or transported in a vehicle. Self-propelled, attendant-propelled, and wheelbase are three models of a manual wheelchair. The power type also has three models that have each own characteristics, namely rear, center, and front driven.

A sport wheelchair that can give speed and agility is also available. It can be used to play certain sports like basketball, rugby, tennis, table tennis, and racing. A sport wheelchair cannot be folded because it needs a strong frame. It is usually built using composite and lightweight materials and it also has pronounced angle for the wheels to increase its stability.

As the technology develops, wheelchair has undergone various improvements. A high-tech wheelchair has a great balancing capability. It can run on two wheels and it can raise its user to a near-standing position. It even can climb the staircases. Obviously this wheelchair also costs a fortune and you need a prescription from a doctor to get it.

Common advancements in wheelchair usually only involve the cushion materials that are used, such as gel and memory foam. In order to increase the quality of life of wheelchair users, new buildings have provided wheelchair accesses, such as ramps and elevators. Public transports also have accommodated accesses for people with disabilities. Public awareness towards disabled people has increased significantly nowadays and it makes the life of wheelchair users much easier.

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