Wheelchairs have revolutionized the lives of people with disabilities or limited mobility. Less than a century ago, disabled individuals could not walk long distances without assistance, which significantly impaired their social lives and professional opportunities.
This has all changed thanks to modern wheelchairs.
Today’s mobility aids are much more sophisticated and functional than those used by people with disabilities a few decades ago.
There are two primary types of wheelchairs: wheeled and tracked. Both have advantages and disadvantages that make them suitable for different circumstances. This article closely examines tracked wheelchairs, including their pros and tips for choosing the right one for your needs.
What Is a Tracked Wheelchair?
A tracked wheelchair is a hybrid between a static wheelchair and a wheelchair ramp. It consists of a standard wheelchair’s back portion and a track that extends from the footrest to the ground.
Tracked wheelchairs can be particularly helpful for people who have trouble lifting their wheelchairs over curbs and other obstacles. However, they are not appropriate for all users due to their weight, bulkiness, and high cost.
Tracked wheelchairs are generally less suitable for indoor use since they can be difficult to navigate and take up a lot of space. They are primarily designed for outdoor use, where their tracks make them more stable than standard wheelchairs.
Who Can Benefit from Using Tracked Wheelchairs
Tracked wheelchairs are helpful for people with a wide range of mobility issues. They’re ideal for people who suffer from arthritis, osteoporosis, and joint pain. They’re also often recommended for people with a stroke or multiple sclerosis (MS).
Tracked wheelchairs are also recommended for people with balance issues or difficulty lifting their legs due to a medical condition or injury. People who have trouble lifting their wheelchairs over curbs and other obstacles can also benefit from tracked wheelchairs.
Tracked wheelchairs are also useful for people who spend a lot of time outside. Compared to a standard wheelchair, a tracked wheelchair has better traction. This makes it easier to move around rough terrain, including indoors and outdoors, with loose or uneven surfaces.
Tracked wheelchairs can be more challenging to transport than other models, so they may not be the best choice for people who travel frequently.
The Bottom Line – Choosing a Tracked Wheelchair
When shopping for a tracked wheelchair, it’s important to choose a functional and comfortable model. For example, you’ll want to choose a model with a footrest allowing ample movement. Tracked wheelchairs are available in a wide range of styles, so you should be able to find one that works well for your needs.
You’ll want to select a design that meets your specific needs. Make sure the wheelchairs you’re considering are large enough to accommodate your body type and that they are durable. Make sure you try the wheelchair on for size to make it comfortable and fits you well.
Before you buy, you should also consider your budget since tracked wheelchairs are generally more expensive than standard models.