If you are living with limited mobility and find yourself unable to get around due to an illness, injury, or disability, a wheelchair might be just what you need to regain your physical independence. Choosing the right wheelchair appropriate for your precise requirements will provide you the freedom of being able to get around on your own again.

With today's advancements in the medical supply field, wheelchairs are now created in dozens of different sizes, styles, and features. Understand that it's important to find one that's going to offer you the most comfort and one that's going to fulfill your mobility requirements as you shop for one.

1. The majority of wheelchairs will fall into two basic categories; manual and electric wheelchairs. Manual wheelchairs function by having the individual use their arm and upper body strength to push themselves along while seated or use their feet to pedal or scoot them along the floor. What's great about this type of wheelchair is that they are often able to fold up into a fraction of their size when not in use. This makes them perfect for people living in areas where storage space is an issue, such as an apartment building or small room or when having to take them with you in the auto or van. You'll also find that of the two different varieties of wheelchairs, manual ones are lower priced.

2. Electric wheelchairs are typically powered by a 12 volt lead acid battery that provides the user full control over the speed and usage of the wheelchair. The key benefit to using a battery-powered chair is that no additional effort is necessary on your part to move. If you have weak muscles or restricted upper body strength, getting around in a manual wheelchair might be a difficult task. However, using a battery-powered chair that doesn't rely on your strength will take that burden off of you, giving you the freedom you desire. As with nearly all things that use batteries, though, you'll have to keep your wheelchairs battery charged for it to remain functional.

Trying to decide between these two types of wheelchairs may be difficult, as they both have their advantages. To decide which one is best for you, always compare the benefits, prices and features.

Manufacturers of durable medical supplies, such as wheelchairs, have included a number of different features into their products to provide the consumer more mobility and comfort. Some wheelchairs have padded, elevating leg rests which are frequently used in patients who have suffered leg injury. Other wheelchairs may have functions like a reclining back or the ability to fold up the arms or legs. These are all things that you ought to take into account before making a final purchase on your mobility device.

When mobility has become an issue, it's time to begin shopping for the right wheelchair for you. Medical supplies have came a long ways over the years and now you don't have to be stuck with a standard, feature-less wheelchair. Find one that is going to offer you the most comfort and mobility and one that has the features you need.