1. Know Your Range of Knee Motion 

The range of knee motion is probably one of the most critical measurements in the legrest prescription process. Over-stretched legs are not only uncomfortable but can also lead to poor posture over time. 

Reference article: The Fundamental Importance of Knee Range of Motion

Reference article: The Fundamental Importance of Knee Range of Motion

• Within Normal Limits (WNL): If knee flexion falls within normal limits, most legrest options should be suitable.
• Fixed Knee Contracture Over 90 Degrees: When knee angles are fixed at over 90 degrees, proper support usually requires specific alignment between seat depth and a customized legrest.
• Limited Knee Flexion or Fixed Knee Contracture: For users with limited knee flexion or fixed contractures, it’s important to choose a legrest that supports the exact angle needed.

1. 1. Tool-adjustable legrests and manual elevating legrests are the most commonly used options.  
   2. Users with high muscle tone over the knees will benefit from tool-adjustable legrests, as these allow for a stable, fixed position. 
   3. If different limitations exist in each knee, sperated legrests with an independent angle-adjusting function are often the better choice. 

2. Consider Your Transfer Method

If you frequently transfer into and out of your wheelchair from its side, it’s essential to choose a legrest that won’t obstruct your movement. Central legrests provide clearance on both sides of the legs, which can be a game-changer for users with limited hand mobility to have smooth transfers.  

For those who prefer transferring from the front of the wheelchair, swing away legrests can clear the leg space entirely. However, if a user lacks sufficient hand function to swing the legrest away, consider legrests that allow the footplate to lower to the ground. Paired with anterior tilt or low seat height, this setup enables users to step out of the wheelchair directly from the front.  

3. Choose the Right Footplates

Don’t overlook the footplate design when selecting a legrest. Not all footplates are compatible with every legrest, so be sure to consult with your dealer or therapist to ensure the right match.  

The central mount footboard is ideal for compact space or indoor if it can be positioned at an angle close to 90 degrees.

For users without any leg deformities, either a one-piece or two-piece footplate is suitable. However, if there is a leg length discrepancy, two-piece footplates are recommended to accommodate different footplate heights on each side.

Adjustable footplate is ideal for individuals with foot deformities, as it can be tilted forward and backward, and the lateral angle can also be adjusted. 

Special mention should be made of Amputee Legrests, which typically feature shortened support and angle adjustability. Some models also provide lateral support to help keep the residual limb stable. 

4. Think About Leg Elevation Needs

If you have a positioning wheelchair and you have no deformities in your lower extremities, consider whether manual or powered elevating legrests are better suited to your needs and abilities.  

To enhance circulation in the lower limbs, a tilt-in-space wheelchair equipped with elevating legrests can be highly effective. The key principle is to position the legs higher than the head, which promotes better blood flow. 

Pro Tip:  Biomechanical length compensation allows the legrest to adjust in length as the angle changes, reducing strain on the joints. It’s especially important for users who cannot reposition themselves in their wheelchair.

5. Consult Your Therapist for Special Positioning

For individuals with severe deformities in the pelvis, trunk, and lower extremities, a specialized positioning setup is necessary to ensure sitting stability, comfort, and driving efficiency. A therapist’s assessment plays a crucial role in selecting the most suitable legrests to support proper posture. 

Conclusion 

Choosing the right legrest for your wheelchair is essential for maximizing both comfort and functionality. By taking into account factors such as your range of knee motion, transfer methods, footplate design, leg elevation needs, and specific sitting posture, you can make an informed decision tailored to your individual requirements. If you have further questions about selecting legrests, consulting a qualified therapist and your dealer for professional guidance is key to making the right choice. 

Tzuyu Lin, PT, Product Manager

Tzuyu Lin is a physiotherapist and Product Manager at KARMA headquarters. She began her career at the Rehabilitation Engineering Lab at National Taiwan University, focusing on exoskeleton studies, and later gained five years of physiotherapy experience at an orthopedics clinic.

Since joining KARMA in 2021 as a Product Specialist, Tzuyu has focused on custom adaptations and complex rehab technology. Now part of the product management team, she co-developed the KARMA Flexx Adapt wheelchair.

Keep Reading

Which Leg Rest Should You Choose?

How Do the Footplates Contribute to a Comfortable Sitting Position?

Busting Myths about the Leg Rests on a Wheelchair

If you frequently transfer into and out of your wheelchair from its side, it’s essential to choose a legrest that won’t obstruct your movement. Central legrests provide clearance on both sides of the legs, which can be a game-changer for users with limited hand mobility to have smooth transfers.  

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.

iAccess Life App

iAccess Life is an app that allows wheelchair users to communicate and share their experiences at establishments around the world. This kind of information is essential to wheelchair users to prepare in advance if their destination is wheelchair accessible. In the event that a location isn’t wheelchair accessible, app users can share that information with the wheelchair community. This app is not only great for wheelchair users, but anyone with impaired mobility. In the iAccess Life app users can rate the parking, seating, entrance, and bathroom. This app allows for better planning when visiting hotels, restaurants, and stores. Download: iAccess Life for Android | iOS.

Wheelmap

The Wheelmap app is similar to the iAccess Life app in that it is a place for users to rate the accessibility of their destination. For wheelchair users who rely on their wheelchair as their main mode of transportation, apps like this can help them avoid locations that aren’t wheelchair accessible. On Wheelmap, users can upload pictures of the accessible locations for other wheelchair users to assess if they can visit! Wheelmap for Android | iOS

Uber

Uber is a popular ride-sharing app that you may have used before, however, did you know that they also cater specifically to wheelchair users? There is a specific option for you to choose when you need a wheelchair accessible vehicle. Whilst all Uber’s are equipped to store a wheelchair or other mobility devices in their car, you will have to request a specific car in order to use your wheelchair as a seat in a motor vehicle. In the event that your destination is not wheelchair accessible, you can always call an Uber to take you somewhere more convenient. 

The safety of our wheelchair user’s is of the utmost importance, so it’s important that if you intend to travel in a car with your wheelchair, that you pick a chair that has been crash tested. This means that your chair has been approved to be used as a chair in a vehicle according to international safety standard ISO 7176-19. Uber for Android | iOS

Sharing your experience with others is an important part of accessibility. Not only with the wheelchair community, but to the businesses that you weren’t able to access in the hopes they will update their facilities. To avoid disappointment in the future, if you can plan ahead for your journey. In a previous blog, we shared some ways to check if your destination is wheelchair accessible, as well as how to reach your destination with a wheelchair. If you’re unsure about what wheelchair is most suited to you and your lifestyle, you can contact KARMA Medical.

Postural supports

Posture supports allow the user to sit in their wheelchair comfortably for longer. The postural supports can be bespoke for each user to increase stability and mobility. Increased stability is imperative to avoid long term injury. 

This is why selecting the right wheelchair is so important for each user. A therapist or doctor will provide the user with the accessories they need in order to sit comfortably and securely. 

Adjustable headrests

Power wheelchairs are typically already equipped with headrests, however, headrests can be added to manual wheelchairs should the user require additional head and support. For example, KARMA Medical’s Adjustable Headrest can be configured to the requirements of the user. Headrests not only reduce strain on the neck and shoulders, they also help maintain the user’s posture for a stable sitting position. Sitting comfortably will improve the user’s mobility and prevent long term injuries.

Tray table

A tray table may not seem like an obvious mobility aid, however it does assist in making it easier to navigate daily life. For example, if the user is planning to eat outdoors with their peers, outdoor seating is not always accommodating for wheelchair users. A tray table removes these obstacles, allowing any wheelchair to participate in everyday activities. Not only can a tray table be used to enjoy meals, but it can be used as a work surface for a laptop etc. 

A tray table is also great for elderly wheelchair users who may not be comfortable moving in and out of their wheelchairs at meal times or for other various activities. They can be used on both manual and power wheelchairs, which is great for all wheelchair users. 

Wheelchair bags

Wheelchair storage or a wheelchair bag may seem like an obvious accessory, but it’s also one of the most useful. There are a variety of wheelchair storage solutions to choose from, for example, backpacks, net bags, armrest bags, and tote bags. The backpack and tote bags can hang on the push handles of the wheelchair to provide plenty of additional storage when out and about. 

Wheelchair bags are a great place to store medical equipment and other necessities instead of keeping them on your lap. This will ensure that the belongings are safe and that the user’s mobility isn’t affected with the additional things.

All KARMA Medical wheelchair accessories are designed for comfort and support to assist not only the user but caregivers to improve mobility. There are accessories for both power and manual wheelchairs for not only support, but also to make daily life easier.

Grab bars/ Grab rails

One of the easiest ways to make a bathroom accessible is to install grab bars or grab rails on the walls. The rails give support when moving around the bathroom and to help transfer from the wheelchair to the toilet or shower. A grab rail is an affordable way to make a bathroom more comfortable and can be placed anywhere the user needs. Everyone can benefit from these grab bars, from elderly to manual, and power wheelchair users. 

Open shower room

Open showers are wheelchair accessible because the shower area is on the same level as the rest of the bathroom. This kind of bathroom is also known as a wet room as the whole room can be accessible from any level. Someone who uses a shower wheelchair can move around freely, and independently. 

Ideally, the shower area should be large enough to move around comfortably, with grab rails to keep the user safe. Furthermore, you can choose the type of faucet that best suits you and your needs. 

Accessible bathtubs

Installing an accessible bathtub might seem like a considerable investment, as it means buying a new bathtub that suits your needs. However, choosing a lower bowl, or walk in bath, allows for easier and safer access and transfers from your wheelchair. Installing grab rails and handles around the bathtub will make it more accessible and safe. Anti-slip mats and a specially designed shower seat can also make bathing a safer experience. All of these accessories are one way to develop an independent life. 

Accessible sink

Having a lowered sink with enough room to park a wheelchair underneath makes it a much simpler bathroom experience. Lowering the sink can prevent strain and injuries from reaching to use the sink. Additionally, a touchless taps and soap dispensers can make it even easier for someone with limited mobility to use the bathroom. 

KARMA Medical is here to help you find the right wheelchair for you. We can also provide guidance on how to live an independent and free lifestyle. For further information on how to make your bathroom accessible, you can contact your local wheelchair dealer. You can also take a look at the KARMA Medical blog for further information to live an independent and accessible life.

Wheelchair accessible vehicles are a great way for wheelchair users to travel further distances that wouldn’t otherwise be possible in their wheelchair. Wheelchair users can spend funds adapting their current motor vehicle, or they can purchase a vehicle that has been designed for a wheelchair user to drive. No matter which option they choose, the safety of the user is of upmost importance. 

In order for a motor vehicle to be used driven by a wheelchair user, the following features must be installed/adapted before any driving can take place: 

• • There must be a way to anchor the wheelchair safely to the motor vehicle. For example, the Dahl Docking System is a safety feature that is installed on the wheelchair and in the motor vehicle. This ensures that in the event of an accident, the wheelchair user and their wheelchair will not move. 

• • The vehicle must include an adapted hinged door. The entrance for the wheelchair should be adapted to accommodate the wheelchair user, e.g. wide enough. 

• • There should be either a wheelchair lift system or space for a wheelchair ramp. In order for the user to safely enter and exit the vehicle safely, a wheelchair ramp can be used however, a ramp typically requires assistance. On the other hand, a wheelchair lift system can be used independently by the driver (the wheelchair user). 

• • There needs to be sufficient interior space to accommodate the wheelchair. If the wheelchair user is going to enter the motor vehicle via a lift or ramp (i.e. they intend to use their wheelchair as their seat v.s. Transferring into the driver’s seat) then there needs to be enough room inside the vehicle to comfortable maneuver to the steering wheel.  

• • The wheelchair must have passed a safety crash test. Not only is this imperative for the safety of the user, but also anyone else in the motor vehicle. This safety test ensure that the wheelchair won’t move in the event of an accident. In some countries, if the wheelchair has not passed the safety crash test, they are not allowed in any motor vehicle. 

Adaptions to your wheelchairs might also need to be made in order for it to be safe to drive and used as a seat in a motor vehicle:

• • Specialized controls can be installed or attached to your wheelchair to make it easier to drive a motor vehicle. For example, the accelerator and brake can be controlled with one hand, and the steering wheel with the other. 

• • The wheelchair must have passed a safety crash test. In order to use a wheelchair as a chair in a motor vehicle, it must have passed a safety crash test. 

• • There must be a safe way for the user to transfer from the wheelchair to the driver’s seat. If the user is not planning to use their wheelchair as the driver seat, then there has to be sufficient room to make the transfer from wheelchair to chair. 

• • Seat cushions can be added to increase the sitting height. It’s imperative that the user can see clearly in order to drive safely. 

• • The user must obtain a valid driver’s license. It may seem obvious, but the driver must have passed their driving test in their modified vehicle. 

As long these safety requirements are met, and with the approval of a doctor or therapist, a wheelchair user can drive a car. A new level of freedom and independence can be achieved should the wheelchair user want that. If you are unsure about which wheelchair is best for you, you can contact KARMA Medical to find the best wheelchair for you that is also suitable to be driven in a motor vehicle. 

Keep Reading

How To Check if Your Journey Is Wheelchair Accessible

What Are Accessible Parking Space Requirements?

How To Choose a Portable Wheelchair Ramp

Google Maps

Google Maps have recently launched a feature on their app to help wheelchair user find possible routes that take mobility needs into consideration. This is a revolutionary feature for wheelchair users who no longer have to worry if their route is safe to travel. 

In addition to making public transportation more accessible, Google Maps have made it possible for users around the world to help by adding accessibility information. Anything from whether a location has step-free access or an accessible restroom, are the kind of information that is readily available for wheelchairs users at the tip of their fingers. Additionally, Google Maps have been “capturing and updating Street View imagery of transit stations and city centers” so users can check out their destination ahead of time. 

Public Transport

Larger cities with advanced public transportation systems will have accessibility information readily available for their customers. For example, Transport for London, has a bespoke section on their website so serve the disabled community. On their website, they have guides on which stations have step free access as well as platform boarding access. These resources are incredibly useful when it comes to planning your journey! 

Local Attractions

If you have plans to visit a specific location, it will give you peace of mind knowing whether your destination is wheelchair accessible. Often, these interest points will have a website detailing their mobility accessibility, if not, you can contact them directly yourself.

Local Facebook Groups

The wheelchair community in particular is very supportive and active when it comes to sharing information about local attractions. If you have time to plan ahead, you should find some local wheelchair groups and ask about the most popular attractions and whether they are accessible. You mind even find some hidden gems on your way!

Planning ahead will give you a boost of confidence before you even start your journey! All of these resources can be accessed on the go, when you’re ready to go. Having the right wheelchair by your side, whether it’s a power or manual wheelchair, can make your travels more safe and comfortable. Check out KARMA’s selection of top wheelchairs for travel. 

Keep Reading

What Are the Basic Requirements for Wheelchair Access Ramps

What Are Accessible Parking Space Requirements?

What Are the Requirements for a Wheelchair Adapted Motor Vehicle

The benefits of standing wheelchairs

Physically, the benefits of a standing wheelchair include reducing pressure sores, reducing muscle soreness, and slows down osteoporosis. Sitting and laying down all day can decrease the user’s bone density that can’t be combated by only taking supplements. In order for the body to absorb calcium, the bones need to be stimulated, which is the only way to slow down osteoporosis. Therefore, standing is the only way to increase bone density and maintain healthy bones. 

Not only are there physical benefits, but a standing wheelchair can also have a positive impact on a person’s mental health. A standing wheelchair increases self-confidence and the user’s sense of independence. Often wheelchair users can feel like they’re at a disadvantage because of the height difference from a sitting position, however standing puts the user at eye level with their peers. They can also access bookshelves etc. without the assistance of others, thus accelerating their freedom and independence. 

SME

SME is KARMA’s manual wheelchair with power standing function. SME is the ideal for active wheelchair users who want to achieve freedom and independence and also want to take advantage of the health benefits that come along with standing. SME is a lightweight everyday wheelchair that the wheelchair user can use to practice standing at home as well as in social situations. The adjustable features such as the seat depth, back angle, and knee support make SME comfortable for every user.  

SME is safe and stable to use at home or out and about because of the four touchpoints that ensure the user and wheelchair’s sturdiness. SME transitions smoothly from a sitting to standing position at a speed that is comfortable for the user.

Ergo Stand

Ergo Stand is KARMA’s iconic power wheelchair with power standing function. This compact and highly adjustable wheelchair is suitable for both use indoor and outdoors. The narrow wheelbase makes the chair easy to navigate around the home, along with the front-wheel drive wheels that make turning in small spaces simple and easy. 

Not only is the Ergo Stand capable of utilizing the health benefits of standing for the wheelchair user, but the Ergo Stand can also recline 80°-120°. Reclining in the wheelchair can redistribute sitting pressure and allows the user to relax comfortably in the wheelchair.

Evo Altus

Unlike SME and Ergo Stand standing wheelchairs, Evo Altus can achieve the standing position from a lying down position. This advanced power wheelchair is equipped with all the biomechanical positioning functions (power tilt, power recline, power elevating seat, and power standing). The biomechanical positioning are ideal for wheelchair users who have been diagnosed with a progressive disease or pediatric users who require additional support. 

Evo Altus can even achieve the standing position four different ways. Sit-to-stand, recline-to-stand, tilt-to-stand, and lay-to-stand. Each of these movements are made smooth and efficiently with the upmost comfort and safety of the user. 

If you are unsure of which standing wheelchair to choose, you can read our previous blog about how to choose a standing wheelchair. It’s imperative to the user’s safety to consult a doctor and/or therapist before trying and purchasing a standing wheelchair. Although there are numerous health benefits, not everyone is suitable for every type of wheelchair.

Keep Reading

How To Fit a KARMA Standing Wheelchair

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Power Tilting, Reclining, Lifting, and Standing Electric Wheelchairs

Flexx Junior

Flexx Junior is a multi adjustable manual wheelchair designed to grow with your child from the age of 7-15. Flexx Junior is great for first time wheelchair users, as the rear wheel axel can be altered according to how comfortable the user is in the chair. It may seem like a small adjustment, but changing the user’s center of gravity can make the user feel more balanced and confident in the wheelchair. This lightweight pediatric wheelchair is foldable and compact, making it ideal for travel as well as every day. 

Flexx Adapt

Flexx Adapt is the latest in innovation for pediatric positioning manual wheelchairs. Like Flexx Junior, Flexx Adapt is designed to grow with your child with adjustments along the seat and backrest. The unique Dynamic Backrest protects the user during any sudden or uncontrollable movements that could otherwise cause harm to the user. The Dynamic Backrest absorbs and diffuses these forces whilst still supporting the user during daily activities. With the flip of a switch, the backrest can be made static for a stable and supportive seating position. 

Flexx Adapt is KARMA’s first pediatric manual wheelchair equipped with the 2-in-1 positioning functions; tilt-in-space and recline. These positions provide pressure relief to the user without having to leave the chair and increase seating tolerance. Additional accessories can also be added to Flexx Adapt for extra support.

KP-12T 

KP-12T is a basic pediatric power wheelchair designed to teach children how to be independent and encourage socialization with their peers. The seating system is adjustable to meet the specifications of the user for ultimate comfort and support. The flip back armrests make it easier and safer to transfer in and out of the wheelchair. The 30° Tilt-in-Space function relieves and redistributes pressure to ensure user comfort, stability, and safety. KP-12T can be easily disassembled and reassembled tool free for easy travel and storage.

Leon F Kameleon

The Kameleon is a sophisticated pediatric power wheelchair designed for children aged 3-12 years old. The idea for Kameleon came when KARMA wheelchair developers realized that there wasn’t a pediatric wheelchair on the market with sufficient seating support for every user. As well as the options for extra support, the seating system is highly adjustable. For example, the back panels can be expanded or angled to suit the user. Additional supports can be mounted onto the seating system by a therapist for both the ultimate comfort and support. 

Furthermore, the Kameleon is compatible with key power positioning possibilities like power tilt, and power lift. These functions are great for encouraging children to interact with their peers whilst staying comfortable in their chair.

No matter which wheelchair you think is most suitable for your child, always consult their therapist first! A therapist will have a good idea of your child’s prognosis and will choose the wheelchair most suited to their needs now, as well as in the future. Find your nearest KARMA Medical wheelchair dealer if you’d like to try and KARMA wheelchair!

Keep Reading

Flexx Junior Pediatric Wheelchair- Features and Adjustments

What Extra Support Could a Pediatric Wheelchair User with a Windswept or Scoliosis need?

When To Recommend a Manual Wheelchair for Pediatric Users

Wheelchair backpack

Depending on the user’s preference, they can use a regular backpack on the back of a manual wheelchair via the handles. Not every backpack design is suited for this, for example, the straps of the backpack might not be adjustable to the correct length or the shape may be awkward. This solution is most suited to short term wheelchair users who might be using a wheelchair during rehabilitation. 

Long term manual wheelchair users will often opt for a wheelchair backpack that has been specifically designed for use on a wheelchair. In 2022, there are a variety of brands designing storage solutions especially for wheelchair users. A backpack designed specifically for a manual wheelchair will have shorter straps designed to hang securely from the push handles. 

Similarly, power wheelchair users can also seek backpacks made specially for their wheelchair type. KARMA power wheelchairs have an additional backpack hook that can be installed to the back of the wheelchair to securely hang any bag design from backpacks to tote bags.

Net bag storage

Some manual wheelchair user’s may opt to store their belongings under the wheelchair with a net storage bag. This accessory is unintrusive and creates space for additional storage. When going up a ramp, it’s important to note that items may fall out if not stored securely. 

Armrest bag

An armrest back is a great way for long term wheelchair users to store their valuables such as their phone, wallet, and keys. Keeping your personal belongings where you can easily access them at all times will give the user peace of mind when they are out and about. The material used to manufacture these bags are lightweight and easy to clean. 

Tote bags

Tote bags are both stylish and convenient for additional storage. For example, a tote bag is a great place to put a jacket, water bottle, or groceries. They can easily hang from the push handle or the previously mentioned backpack hook. We wouldn’t advise wheelchair users to store their valuables, as most tote bags don’t have a secure closure. 

There are many storage options for wheelchair users to choose from! From a place to store your valuables to additional storage that you might need when you’re out and about. There are many ways to personalize your wheelchair to show off your personality, the wheelchair bag you choose is a great way to do that! Ask about KARMA Medical accessories when choosing your wheelchair!

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