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Old 04-16-2009, 10:49 AM
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CRPSbe CRPSbe is offline
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Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: Belgium, Europe
Posts: 832
15 yr Member
CRPSbe CRPSbe is offline
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CRPSbe's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: Belgium, Europe
Posts: 832
15 yr Member
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Try finding one with a titanium frame. These are really lightweight. I can think of a few brands that are well known, like Quickie models from Sunrise Medical, or models from Invacare.

My mother couldn't handle the heavy frame of a normal wheelchair, she has osteoporosis, so we had to get a light frame for me. Even my dad struggled with the heavy chair. Besides, my parents who care for me are in their sixties. Since it's only approved for people with paralysis in the lower limbs here, I didn't get a penny. Never mind the circumstances!

Be sure that your arms can take it wheeling it yourself, because these light weight titanium models are designed for self handling. I wouldn't recommend it if you have RSD, even if your arms ar "clear". Besides, you need to have enough upper body strength to wheel your own weight + the weight of the chair. I know I can't do it! I had handles made onto my chair because of that. Even then, it's not a chair to go out into the open with. Forget that! It's nice enough indoors and on really flat surfaces, but the sidewalks and the roads are brutal for such a light frame!

If you think your wheelchair will get you places just like your limbs did, forget it!

If you can, get an electronic model or a disability scooter, that's so much more towards your own mobility!
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All the best, Marleen
=====================
Work related (car) accident September 21, 1995, consequences:
- chondromalacia patellae both knees
- RSD both legs (late diagnosis, almost 3 years into RSD) & spread to arms/hands as of 2008
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"Thanks for this!" says:
kilikina (04-16-2009)