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How to Measure a Person for a Wheel Chair

Measuring your body is necessary to ensure your wheelchair fits properly. A wheelchair that is too large can affect your access to the wheels and brakes, as well as your posture and ability to reach the footrests. A wheelchair that is too small can put constant pressure on your skin and tissues, which can lead to skin breakdown. The thickness of a cushion, which can be a separate purchase, can affect the measurements. Have someone assist you in obtaining your measurements while you sit comfortably in an upright chair and rest your feet flat on the floor.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
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Instructions

  1. Measuring for a Wheelchair

    • 1

      Calculate the seat width by the measuring from one side to the other, in inches, the widest points across your hips and thighs as you sit in a normal position, knees slightly apart. Add 1 inch to this measurement to allow for comfort.

    • 2

      Calculate the seat depth by measuring, in inches, from the rear of the buttocks to the back of the knee. Subtract 1 inch from this measurement for the final seat depth and subtract 1 more inch if you use your feet to push or maneuver your wheelchair.

    • 3

      Extend your arm out forwards. Calculate the back height by measuring, in inches, the distance from the bottom of the buttocks to the underside of the extended arm. Use this measurement as the back height if you are unable to use your upper body, but subtract 3 inches from this measurement if you have good shoulder and arm strength. If you have great upper body strength and you are able to actively push the wheelchair, subtract 4 inches from the back height.

    • 4

      Bend one arm at the elbow while keeping the forearm parallel to the floor. Calculate the armrest height by measuring, in inches, the distance from the bent elbow to the bottom side of the buttocks. Add 1 inch to this measurement.

    • 5

      Calculate the footrest height by measuring, in inches, from the bottom of the heel to the underside of the thigh. Add 1 inch to this measurement.

    Adjusting the Measurements for a Wheelchair Cushion

    • 6

      Add the total thickness of both side cushions to the seat width measurement.

    • 7

      Add the thickness of the back cushion to the seat depth measurement.

    • 8

      Add ½ the thickness of the seat cushion to the back height measurement if you have good shoulder and arm strength or if you have great upper body strength and are able to actively push the wheelchair.

    • 9

      Add ½ the thickness of the seat cushion to the armrest height measurement.

    • 10

      Subtract the thickness of the compressed cushion from the footrest height measurement.

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