What Is A Self-Propelled Wheelchair?

A self-propelled wheelchair is moved by the occupant.

This would most commonly refer to a manual wheelchair with large rear wheels that can be propelled by the user. All it requires is for the user to have functional use of their upper limbs.

Standard self-propelled chairs will have push handles to allow an attendant to push the chair as necessary. More bespoke active user chairs often have the option of being made without push handles; sometimes preferred by users who do not want someone to move their chair.

Self-propelled chairs are commonly made from steel and aluminium.

A proper wheelchair assessment will ensure that the chair meets the needs and requirement of the user.

Other types of wheelchair are powered/motorised and attendant-propelled.