Description
The Optimum H push rim has a silicone anti-slip insert and offers a better grip that makes the wheelchair more manoeuvrable and easier to drive, especially on uneven terrain.
The smooth black hard anodized aluminium sides minimise frictional heat during braking.
1 1/8″ Heart-shaped Hand-rim
- Tabs – 2 positions, narrow and standard (added adjustability in standard position)
- Black hard anodized
- Ergonomic shape (thumb groove built into the hand rim)
- Weight 0.8 lbs, Height 1 1/8”
- Compatible with all our wheelchair models
- Available in 22’’, 24’’, 25’’, and 26”.
- Hand/wrist pain/UE discomfort
- Better distribution of pressure and forces throughout user’s hand
TIPS AND ADVICE
A wheelchair hand rim is that part of the wheel the user comes into direct contact with to propel the chair. If they can seem like a very straightforward component of a wheelchair, many types of hand rims are available, each with a different impact on performance and comfort.
Manually propelling a wheelchair is an activity that has low mechanical efficiency; the energy put into propulsion is not proportional to the movement of the wheelchair and an active wheelchair user will push their hand rims 2000-3000 times per day. Due to these factors, upper extremity repetitive strain injuries are common for manual wheelchair users. Recent research suggests how a user propels his or her wheelchair over time can cause pain and injury to the upper extremity, especially in the shoulders and wrists. Specifically, the high force and high repetition from manual propulsion can cause damage to the median nerve of the wrist causing carpal tunnel syndrome.
With as much interaction as the user has with the hand rim, we need to make sure they are given ample consideration during the prescription process. Matching the hand rim to the user can increase propulsion efficiency and effectively prevent upper extremity injuries. If upper extremity conditions already exist changing features of the hand rim can help to reduce pain or the likelihood of further the injury. Here will review hand rim features which can help us understand how to customize a hand rim to the user.
Don’t hesitate to contact one of our team members to get a quote or advice.
