How to Row a Manual Wheel Chair

It can be difficult to maneuver a manual wheelchair; it may take time to learn how to position your arms and feet. Rowing a manual wheelchair is possible, once you get the hang of it. If you are recovering from an injury or if you need it on a permanent basis, a wheelchair can help you get around and provide the freedom you desire.

Instructions

• 1

  Adjust your wheelchair properly. Make sure that the wheelchair's sitting position is comfortable and the back support is in place. Wheelchair Net states that the optimal sitting position is a seat-to-back angle of 90 degrees and a knee angle of 90 -- 120 degrees. Keep in mind that adjusting one part of the chair will change the position of another part of the wheelchair.

• 2

  Lock the wheelchair to keep the wheels from moving while you are getting into the chair. Some wheel locks are positioned underneath the seat, while other locks are located directly above the wheel. The position of the wheel lock on the wheelchair is determined by its manufacturer. Push down on the wheel lock to lock the wheelchair. Unlock the chair after you have gotten into it.

• 3

  Propel the wheelchair with your hands. Hold the pushrims with your hands and move your arms forward. While moving the wheelchair, your arms should move in a rowing motion. When you are seated and rowing your chair, make sure the seat cushion is not too long. If it is, you may get pressure behind your knees and thighs, which may make it to difficult to sit properly in the wheelchair.

• 4

  Move the wheelchair back by holding the pushrims and moving them backwards. Continue the backward rowing motion to reverse your manual wheelchair. The pushrims can be angled horizontally or vertically in order to move in different directions.

• 5

  Turn the wheelchair to the left by holding the left wheel still and moving the right wheel. To turn to the right, hold the right wheel still and move the left wheel. To complete a 360 degree turn, move the wheels in opposing directions.