https://notes.io/w5X5s https://mackinnon-bendix-3.technetbloggers.de/why-lightweight-self-propelled-wheelchair-is-relevant-2024 How to Self Propeller a Wheelchair Learning to self-propulse in a wheelchair can open the door to a whole new realm of independence. It takes a lot of practice and a proper body posture to accomplish this. Proper body positioning requires precise grip and pushing technique. This article will focus on these skills, as well as other important aspects of wheelchair propulsion. Hand Positioning Self-propulsion is a key component of self-propulsion. It's best to start with precision and work your way up to speed. Squatting while pushing can improve the stability and comfort of those who use it, especially those who have lower body restrictions. Hands should be set to match the speed of the wheel. You should also push with both hands, not wrapping thumbs around hand-rims. This is a common omission that reduces efficiency and increases force required per stroke. To avoid contact with the rear wheel, the path to recovery for the hands must be in an "equilateral" pendular pattern beneath the hand-rims. This reduces shoulder strain, as does keeping the duration of each stroke and the number of cycles to an absolute minimum. It is sometimes recommended to use long strokes and a full recovery when working on more difficult surfaces (like the hand position on the timepiece). This can help reduce shoulder injury due to repeated motion, but can increase the load on shoulders with each cycle. Utilizing the same position for both propelling and braking can also help to minimize shoulder injury. If the user of a wheelchair is able to maintain a consistent rhythm for both of these actions, they will be better able to manage the forces and adjust to differences in terrain. On surfaces that are muddy or soft, it is often necessary to lean slightly forward while driving to keep the front wheels from sinking into the ground and tumbling backwards. You should test