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Information on Leg Problems With Wheelchairs

Whether you are in a wheelchair to recover from an injury or you permanently use your wheelchair, leg conditions associated with wheelchair use are common problems. Most are caused by a lack of motion in the legs. Lack of motion in the legs can cause pain, cramping, lesions and a gradual loss of muscle mass in the legs. Though treatment for these common leg problems associated with wheelchairs is fairly simple, preventing these afflictions is an easy way to spare yourself unnecessary pain.

  1. Pressure Sores

    • Pressure sores, or bed sores, are irritated areas of skin that are caused by sitting or lying in one position for too long. Wheelchair users may get pressure sores on their legs when the legs are held in a static position against the leg supports on the chair. Symptoms of pressure sores include a sore, red patch of skin that feels warm to the touch, skin discoloration or a small crater of skin. Pressure sores commonly appear on the heels and backs of the knees, as well as other portions of the legs that don't have much muscle mass. Treatment for pressure sores include relieving the pressure from the sore and topical treatments.

    Muscle Cramps

    • Muscle cramps are caused by a tightening of the muscles and a restricting of blood flow. Cramps can often occur in the legs of wheelchair-bound patients who are not moving their muscles enough. Since muscle cramps restrict blood flow, it is important to quickly treat a muscle cramp to prevent damage. Muscle cramp treatments involve stretching the cramped muscle, massaging it to stimulate blood flow, and moving it repeatedly. If pain occurs due to a muscle cramp, use an over-the-counter pain reliever to reduce the pain and inflammation.

    Muscle Atrophy

    • Muscle atrophy is a condition characterized by the weakening of disused muscles. Symptoms of muscle atrophy include general and localized weakness and a shrunken appearance of the affected muscles. Though muscle atrophy can occur in any person who neglects to use his muscles, wheelchair-bound patients are particularly susceptible to muscle atrophy in their legs. Muscle atrophy is treated by applying a gradual exercise regime to the atrophied muscles to rebuild them.

    Preventing Leg Problems

    • Preventing common leg problems caused by wheelchairs involves a healthful diet and exercise. Muscle cramps and atrophy, as well as pressure sores, can be prevented by daily stretching and exercising the legs. This movement builds muscle to prevent pressure sores and also stretches developed muscle to prevent atrophy and cramping. Additionally, drinking plenty of water can help prevent cramping and pressure sores. Specially manufactured seat cushions and adjustable wheelchairs also help prevent common leg problems, as movement and proper posture are essential to keep your leg muscles healthy.

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