Rigid Wheelchairs
Rigid frame wheelchairs key characteristics:
- Generally, a rigid frame wheelchair will consist of a welded frame on which the person sits.
- The back of the chair has the ability to fold down
- The wheels typically have a quick release mechanism to enable easy transportation and storage of the wheelchair.
- Most rigid frame wheelchairs are made from either aluminium or titanium, but there are some specialist wheelchairs made from carbon fibre.
- A lightweight rigid frame wheelchair can weigh as little as 10lbs without it’s wheels.
- As the chair is lighter, it will be easier to push, therefore putting less stress on your shoulder joints.
- As rigid frame wheelchairs have fewer moving parts, they are generally stronger and last longer than folding wheelchairs.
Typically what are the characteristics of a person who would benefit from a rigid wheelchair?
- Someone who has good upper body strength
- Permanent wheelchair user who needs maximum performance and fit
- Wants to be independent
- Is young and active (5-50 years)
- Sees their wheelchair as part of their body and not just a piece of furniture
Rigid wheelchair benefits:
- Improved Body Fit (Design): The primary design of a rigid wheelchair is to fit the body of the user. Most rigid wheelchairs can be built or adjusted  to the shape of the body. For example, with a custom build rigid chair, the seat can be tapered to match the body shape (large at the hips, narrow at the knees) which can hold the user’s body in place. Also the tubing between the knees and footrest can also be tapered (wider at the knees, narrow at the feet) holding the feet in place.
- After Market Adjustments: Rigid wheelchairs generally have more configurations and adjustments such as adjusting the angle between the backrest and the seat.
- Independence: Typically users can easily make transfers from rigid wheelchairs into some cars independently. With some forms of rigid wheelchairs, the user can transfer into the car and from the inside of the car, remove the two wheels, fold down the back rest and bring the wheelchair inside the car and place it either in the back seat or on the floor.
- Aesthetics: The design of some rigid wheelchairs makes them very attractive as well as more functional.