Wheelchair Tiedown Occupant Restraint System (WTORS)

The WTORS is made up of two parts. First is the four point strap tiedown that secures the wheelchair and secondly is the belt system used to restrain the user in the chair in the event of a crash. These 2 systems ensure that the wheelchair does not move in the vehicle during transportation and also protects the user from being thrown out of the vehicle.

Wheelchair Tiedown

The four point tiedown straps are what anchors the wheelchair onto the floor of the motor vehicle so that the wheelchair doesn’t move during an accident. In the USA, a wheelchair that can be safely transported in a motor vehicle will have a WC19 or WC20 logo on the wheelchair frame:

Wheelchairs that have achieved this certification will have stickers on the wheelchair indicating the 4 points where the wheelchair should be tied downs securely:

• The front 2 straps should be angled outward to add lateral stability. The front straps prevent the wheelchair from tipping over when the motor vehicle turns left or right.
• The rear 2 straps should be parallel to the direction of vehicle travel. The rear straps ensure that the user will not fly forward by holding the wheelchair back.
• All 4 straps need to be tight in order to be effective.

Docking systems

An alternative to the four point tiedown straps is an automatic docking system such as the Dahl Docking System. These can be specially installed into private vehicles and used by a wheelchair user who drives without assistance. Not every wheelchair model has been crash tested with a docking system. Ensure that your wheelchair is compatible with a docking system.

Occupant Restraint System

In addition to any postural support belts already used by the occupant in their wheelchair, a crash tested lap and shoulder belt are used to keep the occupant safely in the chair in the event of a crash. Unlike the postural support belts which are only attached to the wheelchair, the lap and shoulder belt is attached to the vehicle. The lap or postural support should be angled between 45-75° from the wheelchair frame. This belt is there to hold the user in the chair if the car were to suddenly stop and to protect the joint.

The shoulder belt (as shown below) is used to restrain both the wheelchair and the user’s upper body, similar to a regular car seat belt. Ensure that this belt goes across the shoulder and along the center of the chest. This belt should meet the pelvic belt and not sit on the armrest. This belt is also attached to the vehicle.

Final considerations when transporting a wheelchair user in a vehicle

In the event that you are planning to transport a wheelchair user in a motor vehicle, here are some final considerations:

• Adjust the backrest position to a vertical angle of 30° or less. Where possible, the backrest should not be in a reclined or tilted position.
• Remove any hard tray tables and store them securely in the vehicle to reduce chance of injury.
• A properly positioned headrest can play a big part to protect the wheelchair user in a rear impact.
• Secure medical and other equipment to the wheelchair or the vehicle.

Learn more about wheelchair safety:

https://www.karmamedical.com/wheelchair-safety/

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The post How To Safely Transport a Wheelchair User in a Vehicle first appeared on Karma Mobility Thailand.

Over the years we have preached about the importance of choosing the right wheelchair or the benefits of certain positioning wheelchairs, however we have never talked about the simple benefits that come with using a wheelchair. If you are considering getting a wheelchair, but you’re not sure how it will benefit your life… keep reading! 

Independence and freedom

The wheelchair is the most popular assistive device, and it’s easy to see why. A wheelchair can give back the feeling of independence and freedom to someone who might have previously felt dependent and restricted. A wheelchair can provide mobility to someone to help them get around, no matter how short or far the distance. A wheelchair can assist a wide range of mobility levels, lifestyles, backgrounds, and environment, making it the most versatile assistive device on the market. 

Having access to a wheelchair allows the user to travel independently wherever they want, whenever they need. The control they have over their own life will also improve self-confidence and allow users to take control of their own lives. 

Improves health

A wheelchair that fits properly can reduce secondary injuries such as scoliosis and pressure sores as a result of an ill-fitting wheelchair. With the proper wheelchair and supports, the wheelchair user can better propel and participate in more physical activities, thus improving their health. Choosing the right wheelchair not only means that the chair fits correctly, but it is also suitable for the user’s lifestyle. For example, if the user plans to use their wheelchair as their main form of transformation, if possible, the user can select a power wheelchair. This will relieve some of the physical effort that comes from propelling a wheelchair for long periods of time. 

Being able to move around comfortably will improve the user’s mental health by being able to take control of their own life and enjoying the freedom that comes along with having your own mobility device. 

Active member of the community

Wheelchairs are incredibly versatile and can be use used by men, women, young, or old. All of these roles are vital in an active community. In order to access the community, whether it be to go to work or attend school, a wheelchair can be used to provide access to these and other various activities. Without access to friends, family and peers, life can become lonely, so it’s important to have a way to access the company of others. 

No matter what wheelchair you decide to choose, there are benefits that go beyond recovery or rehabilitation. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) states that having a personal mobility device is a human right. A personal mobility device should have the ability to move in a matter and at the time of one’s own choice. Acquiring a wheelchair is not only a choice, but a human right. If you need help choosing the right wheelchair for you, KARMA Medical are always here to help.

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The post The Benefit of a Wheelchair first appeared on Karma Mobility Thailand.