Wheelchair Market Research Reports & Industry Analysis

Wheelchairs are propelled either manually (by turning the wheels by the hand) or by various automated systems. They are used by people who have temporary, long-term or permanent difficulty or inability to walk due to physiological or physical illness, injury, or disability. Standard manual wheelchairs incorporate a seat and back, two small front casters (wheels), two large wheels (one on each side) and a footrest, but wheelchairs are more than wheeled mobility devices users sit in. There are often variations on this basic design that are highly customized for the individual user's needs. In addition to basics like seat size (width and depth), seat-to-floor height, footrests/leg rests, front caster outriggers, and adjustable backrests, additional customizations can be made to accommodate the users primary activities, such as sporting events, shopping or for special medical needs. Other custom builds included automated controls that may adjust seat height or adjust the users body position for comfort or other needs. Available accessories include anti-tip bars or wheels, safety belts, adjustable backrests, tilt and/or recline features (manual and automated), extra support for limbs or neck, and mounts for carrying devices such as crutches, walkers, oxygen tanks, drink holders, and clothing protectors. Innovative designs continue in the market, including unusual variant wheels, like the omniwheel or the mecanum wheel, which allow more directional movement options.