Wheelchair for Broken Leg: Choosing the Right One

A broken leg is an annoying problem, especially when you need to wear the cast for months before it's removed. If you're not a fan of traditional crutches, you can always choose wheelchairs instead. These mobility aids make moving around easier since you only need to push yourself around. Besides a generic wheelchair, there are different types with specific features to improve the user's overall comfort and functionality.

The Best Wheelchairs for a Broken Leg

Ultra Lightweight Wheelchair

Ultra-lightweight wheelchairs use lightweight, sturdy materials like specialized aluminum and titanium for easy portability. These are recommended for users with broken legs as they allow easy maneuverability with less effort. Some models offer elevated leg rests, providing the necessary leg support.

The Invacare® Tracer SX5 Wheelchair from Aracent Healthcare is one type that only weighs less than 36 lbs. Users can choose between different seat widths and arm styles for better personalization. They can also add footrests like a swing-away if they don't want their legs dangling while using the wheelchairs.

Reclining Wheelchair

Reclining wheelchairs permit users to recline at varying degrees comfortably and safely. They are ideal for broken-leg users as the adjustable reclining feature can reduce skin pressure and enhance circulation, reducing the risk of pressure sores. Additionally, elevating leg rests supports the injured leg, preventing it from hanging down.

Another type of wheelchair from Aracent Healthcare's lineup is the Invacare® Tracer SX5 Reclining Wheelchair. Users will benefit from this reclining model because of its extensive customization options. It offers the same durability and lightness of a lightweight manual wheelchair but with a full reclining back. Like with the Tracer SX5 model, it also comes with a range of seat widths, arm types, upholstery, rear wheels and more.

Electric Wheelchair

These are motorized wheelchairs that can reduce the need to propel them manually. Electric wheelchairs are ideal for individuals with a broken leg who have limited upper body strength or tire quickly. Some electric wheelchairs come with elevated footrests to provide comfort to the broken leg.

Tilt in Space Wheelchair

These wheelchairs allow the entire seating system to tilt between 0 and 60 degrees while maintaining the seat-to-back angle. This, combined with an elevated leg rest, distributes pressure evenly and reduces stress on the back and thighs, making them a good choice for users with broken legs.

The Invacare® Solara 3G Tilt-in-Space Wheelchair is a reclining model that is great for users with broken legs who want to gently shift their center of gravity at a -5° to 50° angle. It also has a range of sizes and options for increased comfort, positioning and usability. It can accommodate 300 to 400 lbs and offers multiple accessories like a vent tray, stroller handles, front riggings and more.

Pediatric Wheelchair

Pediatric wheelchairs are for children with poor mobility, including those with broken legs. These wheelchairs are smaller in size to fit a child's proportions. These mobility devices often feature adjustable seat depths and heights, allowing for growth and long-term usability. Many pediatric wheelchairs for a broken leg include comfy padding, harnesses and customizable positioning aids to ensure the child's safety and relief.

Features and Upgrades to Improve Your Wheelchair

• Elevated Leg Rests. Their wheelchair heights can be adjustedto, providing comfortable support to the broken leg.
• Cushioned Seats and Backrests. This will add an extra layer of comfort to the user.
• Removable Armrests. It makes it easier for users to transfer from the chair to the bed or sofa without causing discomfort.
• Pneumatic Tires. These can absorb impact better, providing a smoother ride for the recovering individual.
• Foldable Capability. It allows users to easily store and transport their wheelchairs, especially for temporary use after surgery or injury.
• Reclining Backrests. This would enable patients to recline and keep their legs elevated.
• Anti-Tip Wheels. These provide superior stability and safety to the wheelchair user from tipping backward.
• Pressure-Relief Cushions. These can prevent pressure sores.
• Power Wheelchair Upgrade. This is for users who are not strong enough to propel themselves.
• Seat Belts. Seat belts can provide additional safety and prevent accidental falling.
• Adjustable Footrests. For better comfort and support for the leg.
• Swing-Away Footrest. Allow for easier transfers on and off the chair.
• Hand Rails. Assists users in repositioning within the wheelchair.
• Custom Shaped Seat and Backrest. These can be custom-made to the exact shape of the user's body, offering improved comfort and support.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Wheelchair for a Broken Leg

• Level of Mobility. A person with a broken leg might still have some mobility, making specific wheelchairs more appropriate. For instance, if the user can use their arms for propulsion, a manual wheelchair may be a good fit. For people with limited mobility in both the legs and arms, consider an electric wheelchair.
• Type of Injury. The type and injury's severity may dictate the kind of support required and the type of wheelchair needed. Some individuals may need a wheelchair briefly while recovering, while others require one for a more extended period until they're completely rehabilitated.
• Comfort and Support. The user's comfort is paramount. This includes ensuring the seat is comfortable, the leg rest is adjustable (necessary if the other leg is healthy) and the general wheelchair design considers posture support to avoid developing health complications.
• Size of the Wheelchair. The size should be appropriate for the user's body size. Also, the wheelchair must be able to easily maneuver in areas where it will be used, like homes, offices etc. Specifications like the width, depth, height, weight capacity and the size of the wheelchair when it's folded (if applicable) are also important.
• Duration of Use. If the wheelchair is only used for a short time, a basic, less costly model might suffice. However, if it's for a longer period or permanent use, investing in a more durable and comfortable model may be more beneficial economically in the long run.
• Adjustability. Wheelchairs can have adjustable features for better personalization. For example, some models have adjustable footrests, armrests or seats. Choosing a wheelchair that grows and adapts to the user's needs can offer comfort and usability benefits.
• Portability. If the user travels frequently, using a lightweight, foldable wheelchair may be better. These designs are easier to fit into a vehicle for transportation.

Take Care of Your Broken Leg Better With Aracent Healthcare's Wheelchairs

It may be difficult to find the right wheelchair to accommodate your broken leg. But when you choose Aracent Healthcare, we'll guide you every step of the way in the buying process. We have experts who are always available to answer all of your questions to help you get the right product. Whether you need a heavy-duty or toddler wheelchair for a broken leg, Aracent Healthcare has you covered!

Call us right away if you have specific questions about our Invacare® wheelchair products.