Wheel chairs, or its different versions were in use during the past and so are now too. The early known wheel chair was used by King Philip II of Spain, towards end of 16th Century. It is a chair mounted on wheels, with armrests and footrest. Wheel chair is used by people who are unable to walk. Wheel chair provides mobility to disabled, sick, aged and children.
Wheel chairs were initially meant for short traverses and its design was crude. With life style changing, the design of wheel chairs also altered from crude to sophisticated. The earlier version of pushed around, is getting replaced by self driven and electric operated wheel chairs.
Wheel chairs with a seat, handles, foot rest and 2 sets of rear and front wheels constitute the basic model. The basic model was in use 300 years ago. The rear wheels are of large diameter and the front wheels are of small diameter. The basic model requires service of another person, to move it by pushing. User can also be operating this type by rotating the back wheels.
The present day wheel chairs have a lot improved models. Today, the rigid and folding type is the most preferred models. The rigid ones are more suitable for people using wheel chairs frequently. Both these models are flexible, when compared to other models.
The rigid type of wheel chairs is very light because it has only a few moving parts and permanent welded joints. Lightness has made this movement of this model a lot easier. Instantaneous release of back wheels and foldable back rest, are the added advantages of the rigid model.
The folding type wheel chair can be taken apart easily and transported. It is made of chromium, or aluminum to make it very light.
Various models of wheel chairs catering to different kind of users are coming out in the market. One such model is the paediatric wheel chair for the use of children. Its seats are very low making its foot peddle operation easier. The bariatric wheel chairs are designed for the comfort of heavy persons.
Heavy persons can use bariatric wheel chairs for comfortable movements. Stair climbing wheel chairs are typically for the handicapped, to move over steps. Disabled can use sports wheel chairs, for participating in sporting events. Standing wheel chair enables travel of people, who are not able to sit.
Electric motor driven wheel chairs are used by so many today. This is driven by using the joy stick on the arm rest. Other variations of electric wheel chairs are provided with chin operated joy stick and switches operated with head. These models are useful, where hand operation is not possible.
Wheel chairs light in weight, as well heavy ones can be seen in the market. Lighter ones are costly and meant for users, who require chair permanently. The heavy type is cheaper and are best for users, whose requirements are temporary.
The style and look of the wheel chairs have changed a lot in the recent years. Ride on new chairs are more comfortable. With customization trend catching on, improved versions are sure to be launched in the market in the near future.
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