If you’ve never operated a manual wheelchair before, you're probably wondering how to get around with ease. We can help you with that! In this article, we’ll go through everything you need to know about navigation, like how to move forward, backward, left, right, and more. We’ll also touch on the best way to handle ramps and obstacles safely.

1

Gripping the wheels

  1. Place your hands on the hand rims located on the back wheels. If you’re operating your wheelchair by yourself (without a caregiver pushing you), you’ll use the chair’s metal hand rims for movement and steering. Place your left hand on the left rim and your right hand on the right rim. Try to keep a steady grip on the rims—it can take a bit of practice at first but you’ll get the hang of it.[1]
    • Wear fingerless gloves to help prevent blisters, wheel burn, and callouses.
    • Keep your fingernails trimmed short so they're less likely to tear.
    • If you have low grip strength, ask your wheelchair provider about special rims.
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6

Going up and down ramps

7

Going up a curb or low obstacle

  1. Ask a caregiver for assistance just to be safe. The caregiver should position the chair so it's facing the curb straight on with the front wheels near the edge of the curb. Use the handles to lean the wheelchair backward slightly until the front wheels can clear the curb. Then, slowly push forward as you lift up on the handles to get the rear wheels over the curb.[8]
    • New users really need training and practice under the supervision of a trained healthcare professional before attempting to navigate curbs and obstacles on their own. Even with a caregiver’s assistance, curbs can be tough.[9]
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11

Using public transportation

  1. Wait for the bus driver to lower the ramp to the ground for you. Then, propel forward up the ramp like you would any other ramp. After you pay the fare, move to the secure area reserved for riders with wheelchairs (it should be clearly marked). Engage the wheel locks so you don’t roll around during the ride.[13]
    • When you arrive at your destination, disengage the locks and go down the ramp when the driver lowers it to the sidewalk.
    • Talk to your therapist or mobility specialist about anchors and lap belts if you use public transit a lot.[14]
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About This Article

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 21 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 80,483 times.
7 votes - 100%
Co-authors: 21
Updated: December 20, 2021
Views: 80,483
Categories: Wheelchairs

Medical Disclaimer

The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.

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