How to Measure a Wheelchair and a User Properly?

When purchasing a wheelchair, comfort is the top concern for users and their caretakers. Since most users are confined to their chairs for prolonged periods, they prioritize the one that does not become uncomfortable over time.

However, most buyers go for the standard wheelchair sizes. They neglect the possibility of finding a chair that accurately fits their body size. Studies show that 80% - 90% of wheelchair users don’t know how to measure a wheelchair and use the wrong size.

Here’s a list of strategies to ensure you measure a wheelchair and user properly. With these tips, the wheelchair will fit you and your needs perfectly.

Why Proper Measuring for a Wheelchair Is Important

A wheelchair is an important part of the user’s life. If you end up with a poorly-fit wheelchair, it can cause a lot of unnecessary discomfort to the users. Plus, it's an expensive investment. And you will not be able to replace one easily if you are unsatisfied for any reason.

Additionally, sitting in the wrong wheelchair can cause a host of health issues, including:

• poor posture;
• skin breakdowns due to pressure ulcers;
• cramped muscles;
• blood clots;
• reduced balance;
• trouble swallowing;
• anxiety and difficulty in breathing;
• problems in propelling the chair;
• and challenges in wheelchair transfers.

The List of Standard Wheelchair Sizes

According to the Americans with Disabilities Act, the passageway of doors should be 32 inches (815 mm) wide to ensure wheelchair users can navigate comfortably in their homes and public buildings.

In compliance with ADA regulations, manufacturers design manual wheelchairs with a width of 28 inches (711 mm). This enables the users to pass through doors easily with ample clearance to avoid hitting walls. The seat size of a manual wheelchair is generally 9 inches less than the overall size of a chair.

However, electric or powered varieties are more compact. Their wheelchair measurements vary between 22 inches - 25 inches. The turning radius of the powered wheelchair is also important, as the lower the number, the smaller space will be needed for turning.

A larger person with a BMI exceeding 30 typically chooses bariatric or heavy-duty wheelchairs. They have bigger seat sizes with features to enhance the user’s comfort. But they are generally 32 inches wide and unlikely to go through the traditional size doorways.

If you need a wider wheelchair, make sure to check the passage size of your home and modify it according to your needs.

Major Wheelchair Measures and How to Take Them

The optimal sitting position for wheelchair users is 90-90-90. This means that the user should have a 90-degree bend in the hips, a 90-degree bend in the knees, and a 90-degree bend in the ankle. The person’s bottom should be back in the seat, touching the upholstery. The thighs must be parallel to the ground, with the knees in line with the hips.

To take the measure for a wheelchair, have the person sit upright in a comfortable chair. Use a retractable metal tape measure and follow the below steps carefully to determine the accurate size:

1. Seat Width

The width of the wheelchair seat should accommodate the hips of the user comfortably. The sides of the chair should not touch the hips of the user. But the seat should not be so wide that the user has to stretch to reach the wheels if they are self-propelling.

To estimate the seat width. Take measurements of the person’s hips or the widest part of the thighs. Add 1 - 2 inches to the metrics to ensure free movement and cater to bulky winter clothing.

2. Seat Depth

The correct seat width ensures the user’s weight is evenly distributed on the seat. Avoiding accuracy can result in pressure points and skin irritation occurring in the area behind the knee.

Place your measuring tape on the back of the person’s buttock and measure the length of the leg to the back of their knee. Preserve a space of about 2 inches to avoid pressure and enhance circulation. Make sure you fit 3 - 4 fingers between the front edge of the seat and the back (hollow part) of the knee.

3. Seat Height

The standard height of a wheelchair is typically 20 inches. However, this depends on the specific need of the user. If they have a self-propelling chair, the seat height should allow them to easily reach the ground with their heels. But if you use footrests, the height should be extended for a comfortable position.

Measure the length from the user’s heel to the fold behind the knee joint. Add 2 inches for the space between the ground and the footrest. You can also use a seat cushion to raise the seat height.

4. Armrest Height

The ideal armrest height of the jazzy carbon power wheelchair depends on the user's specific needs. Ideally, the arms should have enough support so they are not drooping. Improper armrest position can also cause strain and pain in the arms.

To estimate the armrest height, measure the distance between the chair's seat and the elbow's tip. Add 1 inch to enhance the user’s comfort.

5. Backrest Height

The backrest measurement of the wheelchair is again determined by the user’s degree of disability. User who pushes themselves with a manual wheelchair requires a backseat that allows their shoulders to move freely. In contrast, those who have difficulty sitting upright should consider a wheelchair with a higher backrest. As it gives more support to their spinal area.

Vertically measure the distance between the scapula or shoulder blade to the seat’s platform. Subtract 4 inches from the measurement for upright positioning.

6. Leg Length

Appropriate sizing for the leg length stabilizes the pelvis and evenly distributes the user’s weight on the seat.

Measure the leg length vertically from the hollow part of the knee to the heel part. Make sure the user’s knee is at a comfortable 90-degree angle. Also, include the everyday shoes the user wears in the measurement.

7. Wheelchair Width While Folded

The folding wheelchair widths sizes depend on the overall size of the chair. But generally, foldable varieties have a seat width of more than 14 inches. To ensure the correct sizing, consult with the product’s specification or contact the manufacturer to get exact measurements.

What Measures to Take When Checking the Wheelchair Dimensions?

As we already established, an improper wheelchair measurement can cause big problems for both - the user and the caretaker. Here are some more tips you can follow to ensure proper wheelchair dimensions:

• Use a firm tape (not a dressmaker’s), so it does not bend while you are calculating the metrics.
• If the user is restless during the measuring process, have an assistant help you out in distracting them.
• Always remove the seat cushion when measuring the wheelchair.
• Measure the distance of the seat from the rear part to determine the width.
• Measure from the backrest to the front edge of the seat to calculate the depth of the wheelchair seat.
• Measure the distance between the back of the footplate to the front side of the seat cover for optimal leg length.
• Weight the user as different wheelchairs accommodate a different weight capacity of the user.

Conclusion

Now that you correctly know how to measure a wheelchair, don’t avoid the process and use the right strategy to ensure proper sizing. Remember, wheelchair dimensions standard are not for everyone!

Just imagine the scenario if you use an improper shoe size. You will not only be uncomfortable but also be at risk of falls and injuries. The correct wheelchair measurements certify the same for a user. Therefore, it's worth putting in the extra time and effort to get it right.

Use the above tips for guidance, or contact us at Marc's Mobility for expert consultation.