Type 1 Any wheelchair user here??

[Loisd]

Thanks to my focal neuropathy targeting my spine and my peripheral totally taking away all feeling in my legs and feet, I can no longer use my crutches to get around. Does anyone use a wheelchair? I want something quite sporty, durable and comfy. Does anyone have any recommendations and any tips for daily life with one (getting in and out car, things I need accessories etc) so nervous and scared. Thanks.

 

[Guzzler]

I have had an electric wchair for ten years. Before that, I used a manual.
Firstly, the NHS wchairs are bulky, heavy and difficult to get into a standard car. Do you want a manual chair or an assisted? There are loads on the market, my advice is to look on the health websites for a model you like then go search for that model on Amazon etc as some health websites quote inordinate prices.

The 'sportier' manual chairs are more expensive but they don't usually have that much more benefit other than being heavier. BTW the Red Cross will loan you a chair for a small donation (I think I paid £10) so you might try them and see how it fits re doorways etc before forking out on a chair that might not fit your circumstances.
Hope this helps and best of luck.

 

[Loisd]

I have had an electric wchair for ten years. Before that, I used a manual.
Firstly, the NHS wchairs are bulky, heavy and difficult to get into a standard car. Do you want a manual chair or an assisted? There are loads on the market, my advice is to look on the health websites for a model you like then go search for that model on Amazon etc as some health websites quote inordinate prices.

The 'sportier' manual chairs are more expensive but they don't usually have that much more benefit other than being heavier. BTW the Red Cross will loan you a chair for a small donation (I think I paid £10) so you might try them and see how it fits re doorways etc before forking out on a chair that might not fit your circumstances.
Hope this helps and best of luck.

Thank you for the advice yes I was looking into self propelled ones as I don't want to loose my upper body strength. I want to be as independent as possible, so need something that won't be so bulky.

 

[Guzzler]

you for the advice yes I was looking into self prop as I don't want to loose my upper body strength. I want to be as independent as possible, so need something that won't be so bulky.

Any time. Just to add, there are models with removable wheels for those who have smaller cars. I havn't had one so do not know how useful they are but worth looking at.