Today, the incidents of mobile disability are increasing. Thus, you should make sure that those who depend on a wheelchair to perform daily chores are fit in their chair comfortably. Shopping for a new wheelchair can be an overwhelming task. And one of the most daunting task to figure out the exact dimensions you need for your wheelchair.

With so many options available for seat height, seat depth, seat width, overall height, overall length, weight capacity, overall weight, and more, it's easy to feel lost when you buy a wheelchair online.

Proper fit can impact:

• Posture
• Pressure Ulcers
• Discomfort
• Safety
• Ease of use

How to determine appropriate wheelchair size?

1. Seat Width and Depth

Whether you consider a manual or automatic wheelchair, the basic specification you need to know is the width and depth of the seat.

• Determine seat width by measuring the user's hips from one side to the other in a straight line. Add two inches to that measurement to choose the right-sized wheelchair seat width.
• Determine seat depth by measuring from the back of the hip to the back of the knee when seated. Subtract one inch from that measurement to select the correct seat depth.

2. Footrest Style

• The seat-to-floor height is essential to ensure that the wheelchair provides the ideal fit for the user. The seat-to-floor height can affect the convenience for the user to get in and out of the wheelchair.
• Measure the distance from the back of the user's kneeto the heel of their foot to determine the footrest length.

3. Arm Height

• The right armrest height is crucial. That’s because if the user hunches forward to rest their arms on an armrest that is too low, they may develop back pain. To ensure correct armrest height, the user should sit on a chair with their arm at a 90º angle and measure the distance from the elbow to the seat. For an ideal fit, buy a wheelchair with height adjustable arms features.

4. Back Height

• Have the user sit in the wheelchair, then measure the distance from the person's collarbone or shoulder blade down to the seat. If the user has back problems that require additional back support, there are options for higher height backrests.

5. Wheelchair Size

• When checking the overall length, the total length will reduce significantly with the removal of the legrest. Also, check the overall height of the wheelchair, which reflects the handle height.

6. Weight Considerations

• Wheelchairs can accommodate certain weight limits. Make sure you know the user's weight so that you can fit them into a wheelchair that comfortably supports them.
• Some people in wheelchairs travel in a regular car set. Moreover, people who lack mobility still have the ability to drive. Therefore, take into account the person’s upper body strength when choosing a wheelchair.

To select the correct size wheelchair, you need to mainly focus on seat width, seat depth, back height, and seat-to-floor height. When you buy a wheelchair online, make sure you get these four factors right because then you'll get what you need from this ambulatory aid for the most part.