Opt for a positioning wheelchair that is specially designed to prevent skin damage to the user. Using the recline or Tilt-in-Space functions changes the user’s posture and center of gravity to relieve the constant pressure felt on certain parts of the body.
Reclining Wheelchair
The reclining wheelchair will transform the user from a sitting position to a close to lying down position. The change of position reduces pressure on the buttocks and allows the user to take a break from sitting in the same position.
Unfortunately, “sliding” is a common problem with reclining wheelchairs. Whenever the wheelchair reclines or returns to an upright position, the user’s back will naturally slide against the back of the wheelchair, creating uncomfortable frictions and may lead to skin breakdown.
One of the best selling reclining wheelchairs is Karma MVP 502. Its innovative anti-sliding design slopes downwards 20 degrees, which helps reduce the forward sliding and pressure sores. This significantly reduces shearing on the user’s back and reduces the need for the attendant to reposition the user.
Tilt-in-Space Wheelchair
The biggest difference between a tilting and reclining wheelchair is that the reclining wheelchair will change the posture of the body. If the user can NOT sit up straight independently, they might slide out of the chair or lean to one side when lying down.
The Tilt-in-Space wheelchair doesn’t change the angle of the user’s body. Only the seat is tilted backward. By shifting the pressure away from the hips onto a larger surface area, the caregiver does not need to constantly readjust the user into the seated position. This also helps the user to reduce the risk of developing bedsores and avoid back pain.
One of the most popular Tilt-in-Space wheelchairs on the Thailand market is Karma VIP 515. VIP 515 is one of the only foldable Tilt-in-Space wheelchairs on the market. This means that elderly wheelchair user’s who need this function when they are out and about can enjoy comfort and stability. The increased frequency of being able to change position will decrease the chance of pressure building on in one area and causing pressure sores.
Tilt-in-Space vs. Reclining Wheelchairs: Key Differences
| Feature | Tilt-in-Space | Reclining |
Tilt & Reclining |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suitable User Condition | Users who need frequent pressure relief and stable positioning. | Best for users who can still self-adjust posture and need short-term rest on wheelchair | Suitable for users with severe mobility challenges requiring long-term sitting comfort and advanced posture care. |
| How It Repositions the User | Tilt the entire seat and backrest backward without changing hip angle. | Reclines the backrest while the seat remains flat, changing the hip angle. | Combines both tilt and recline functions for more flexible positioning. |
| Pressure & Skin Protection | Redistributes pressure from the hips to the back without causing shear on the skin. | Reclining can cause shear on the back and shoulders. Some models use biomechanical recline to reduce shear. | Maximizes pressure redistribution while minimizing shear, offering better skin protection. |
| Postural Stability | Uses gravity to support trunk alignment and maintain posture. | May cause sliding, requiring frequent repositioning. | Offers strong postural support and reduces the need for repositioning. |
| Does User Need Hip Joint Flexibility | Yes, because the seat to backrest angle is fixed. | No, caregivers can adjust recline to suit fixed joint conditions. | No, caregivers can adjust recline to suit fixed joint conditions. |
| KARMA model | VIP515 | KM-5000 | VIP2 |
Frequently Asked Question
Q: If the user cannot sit upright on their own or tends to lean/fall when reclining, how can a tilt-in-space wheelchair help?
A: KARMA’s tilt-in-space wheelchairs, such as VIP 515, tilt the entire seating system backwards without significantly changing the user’s hip angle. This shifts pressure across a wider area, easing back and shoulder pain. It’s especially suitable for users who have limited ability to reposition themselves or maintain an upright posture.
Q: If we often go outdoors, is there a foldable option for easier transport?
A: Yes. The VIP 515 is a foldable tilt-in-space wheelchair, which makes it much easier to transport in cars and store at home. Many tilt-in-space models on the market are bulky and not foldable, but KARMA designed this model for users who need both comfort and mobility.
Q: As a caregiver, repositioning the user frequently is tiring. Is there a model that reduces caregiver workload?
A: Yes. Tilt-in-space models from KARMA reduce the need for constant repositioning because the user stays stable and doesn’t slide forward when tilted. Anti-sliding designs like on the MVP 502 also cut down on repeated posture adjustments.
Q: What about pricing and warranty — if the wheelchair gets damaged from heavy use?
A: KARMA offers warranty and after-sales service depending on the model and country policies. Spare parts and servicing are available through our dealer network in Thailand. You can contact us to check for exact pricing, warranty coverage, and nearby service centers.
