The objective of this Fact Sheet is to provide the reader with a basic introduction to manual wheelchairs. Sources of additional information, including a list of wheelchair manufacturers, are found at the conclusion of this fact sheet. Because the wheelchair market is changing so rapidly, there is no universally accepted terminology to describe the various kinds of manual wheelchairs. However, manual wheelchairs sold today generally can be placed in one or more of the following categories. The most popular type of wheelchair for everyday use for a person with good upper body mobility is the lightweight manual wheelchair.
Lightweight chairs provide maximum independence of movement with a minimum of effort.
Many active wheelchair users also prefer the sportier look of the lightweights compared with the more standard looking everyday chair. It should be noted, however, that heavy or obese persons may be unable to use these types of chairs because the lighter weight of the frame results in a reduced user capacity as compared to standard everyday chairs. Once used primarily by wheelchair athletes, the lightweight chair today is used by people in virtually all walks of life as a preferred mode of assisted mobility. Three-wheeled chairs, also developed for such sports as tennis and basketball, are also an everyday chair alternative. Because of the diverse needs of wheelchair users, wheelchairs have been designed to accommodate many lifestyles and user needs.