Ever since the first commercially designed wheelchair, there have been countless different wheelchairs manufactured and designed in the last five decades. One can find everything from straightforward manual to electric, reclining power, and tilting wheelchairs. But which one should an individual select? Here, we have compiled a list of the five main types of wheelchairs available on the market. One should browse through them to make an informed selection.

1. Manual wheelchairs
These are wheeled chairs powered by the user’s hands. So, the user can propel the chair backward or forward and pivot it by grabbing the handle around the wheels. Further, manual wheelchairs can be pushed by someone standing behind the user, as they have handles behind the backrest.

One can find diverse types of manual wheelchairs that emphasize different uses. For instance, foldable and lightweight chairs are typically convenient for placing into a smaller car when moving from the chair to the vehicle. Alternatively, the heavy-duty chairs are ideal for holding more weight. They are more durable.

These wheelchairs are ideal for people who can function independently. But the downside is that users can become fatigued quickly, especially if they travel long distances or move around for an extended period of time. Further, their prolonged use can result in health problems if the user never stands. These can cost between $500 and $1,500, depending on the type of manual wheelchair.

2. Power wheelchairs
These are electric, battery-operated wheelchairs. Power wheelchairs propel the user forward via some controls. Such wheelchairs overcome the problems of fatigue and disabilities, which curtail the use of manually operated wheelchairs. The users can go long distances without tiring, achieving greater independence than a manual wheelchair.

However, it has a few downsides. These are heavier and bulkier than the manual chairs. Power wheelchairs come with a territory, as they must have a motor and a battery at the minimum for mobility. One can find several types of powered wheelchairs. These can cost between $2000 and $3000.

3. Standing wheelchairs
These enable the user to raise the chair from seated to standing. This mechanism for extending the chair can either be manual or electrically powered. The former types may have hydraulics to assist the user. One can drive some standing wheelchairs in seated or standing positions. However, others can be operated strictly in the seated position.

One of the primary benefits of this wheelchair is that it lets the user interact with others at eye level. It has several psychological benefits. It can boost one’s sense of independence and self-esteem. Standing wheelchairs also make it easier to communicate with people around them.

Further, from a physical standpoint, standing wheelchairs are beneficial as they promote better kidney function, muscle tone, and blood circulation. While they benefit different users, they are the best selection for those affected by a spinal cord injury. People with multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, or those who have endured a stroke might also find them beneficial. These can cost between $5,000 and $12,000.

4. Reclining wheelchairs
These have a high back that one can recline either electrically or manually. In the reclining wheelchairs, the back reclines independently from the rest of the chair, a vital distinction from the tilt wheelchairs. However, the degree of reclination will depend on the chosen wheelchair; some can recline far enough to the point where they become a lie-flat bed. Beyond being comfortable, the reclining wheelchairs let the user open their hips. Sitting in one position can get uncomfortable, but with the reclining feature, the user can easily switch it up and get a good stretch. There are several benefits to this chair. Users can fall asleep in the chair when they need rest.

Further, it prevents pressure sores by adjusting the body weight distribution. Moreover, when the reclining wheelchair has a leg rest elevation feature, it relieves hypotension. These can cost between $200 and $2,000.

5. Tilting wheelchairs
Unlike the reclining wheelchairs, the tilting wheelchairs’ entire frame tilts back. Hence, they won’t open the hip angle when the user tilts the chair backward. These vary in how far they can tilt back. One of the main benefits of tilting wheelchairs is that they facilitate posture control. Further, those with a spinal cord injury usually have issues shifting sitting positions. Hence, they are prone to pressure sores. It helps them relieve pressure on joints and transfer body weight by tilting the back.

Moreover, these wheelchairs can streamline how some users get in and out of bed. For people with edema, it is imperative to have their legs elevated at heart level or above. Sadly, it is not achievable with the reclining chair alone. So, this is when the tilting chair comes in handy. Further, it can also promote stability and give relief from backaches. These can cost $2000 or more, depending on the features.

If individuals cannot decide between these and the other wheelchairs on the market, they can speak to their physician. They will account for their specific needs and make recommendations accordingly.