Common Wheelchair Problems and Their Causes

People with limited mobility can’t even imagine a life without a wheelchair because they depend on their wheelchairs for everything, from work to school and home life. And because it is used so often, problems can happen over time. If not fixed promptly, those small problems can turn into big problems that may be complicated to fix.
Some of the most common problems that occur in wheelchairs and trouble the users are uncomfortable chairs, hard-to-move footrests, improperly working brakes, and wheels not turning smoothly. These wheelchair problems happen because of daily use, dirt, or lack of care. Knowing and fixing these problems early can help you keep the wheelchair safe.
If you need more information about the common wheelchair problems and their causes so you can prevent them, read this blog by Hunteram, the best mobility aids provider, till the end.

Uncomfortable Chair

Sometimes, the chair of the wheelchair doesn’t feel good to sit in. If you sit on such chairs for a long time, it can cause pain or discomfort. Such problems happen when the seat cushion is too thin, old or worn out, or stretched or torn. These problems can also occur if the chair doesn’t fit the user’s body well. But it is not always the seat cushion; poor posture can make the chair uncomfortable, too.

Hard to Move Footrests

Over time, the footrests of the wheelchair become difficult to lift or swing or feel stuck or tight. It becomes too difficult to move or takes extra effort. This problem occurs when dirt or dust gets stuck in the joints or when parts become too dry or rusty. Too tight screws or bolts can also make footrests hard to move. All these problems occur in wheelchairs due to a lack of regular cleaning and maintenance.

Wheels Not Turning Smoothly

This is one of the most frustrating problems that occurs in wheelchairs, and often because of bad upkeep. You might feel the wheelchair is not rolling easily, and the wheels have become hard to push. Wheels may feel stuck sometimes, and you may feel the wheelchair has become too slow compared to when it was new. You can fix this problem easily by removing dirt, hair, or string stuck in the wheels of your wheelchair.

Power Wheelchair Not Moving

This problem occurs with power wheelchairs, and the users often have no idea how to fix it. The power wheelchair stops moving all of a sudden. It turns on properly, but will not go forward or backward. You experience this problem when there is a fault in the battery, which may be low/dead, or not connected properly, or it could be a damaged joystick. This problem is caused by a lack of regular charges or checks.

Brakes Not Working Properly

One of the most dangerous problems can happen with a wheelchair is the brakes not stopping it. Your wheelchair may start rolling when it should stay still, or the brakes feel loose or weak. These problems related to the brakes often occur when the brakes are out of position, parts are worn out, or when there is dirt or rust near the brakes. Regular use and gradual wear & tear are often the cause of such problems.

On the Final Note

Wheelchairs are very important for people with limited mobility, as they help them lead their daily lives with dignity, independence, and freedom. These wheelchairs help them do the daily chores without external assistance. However, problems can happen in wheelchairs due to regular use. The most common issues are often related to brakes, wheels, comfort, and controls.

Most of these problems happen because of wear and lack of care. You can do regular cleaning and checks to help prevent these common problems. If your old wheelchair has become too difficult to use and you are looking for wheelchairs for sale, contact Hunteram, the best mobility aids provider in Hunter Valley, without delay.

Additionally, learn more about uncovering the benefits of mobility wheelchairs – manual and power wheelchairs where detailed benefits are explained.