Wheelchair Belts

Belts that are designed for use in wheelchairs are referred to as positioning belts. They are used in the exact same way as a seatbelt from any automobile, strapping the rider into their chair. The belt will secure the passenger and guarantee that they are not prone to sliding out, even while going over the bumpiest and most uneven ground.

Attaching the belt

A positioning belt must be connected to the chair to properly secure the rider, and there are two ways to do this.

The most common and safest method is to attach the belt to the frame of the wheelchair by bolting it in place. This assures that the belt is properly connected to the chair and not at risk of disconnecting. Most positioning belts will include directions on how to properly mount the brackets to the chair.

Another method is to attach the belt by punching a hole through the material and using that as a base. This is a less secure procedure, and it is generally not the preferred method of connecting the device.

Attaching the belt may two people, but it can be done very quickly. It is also possible to have the belt professionally installed if you do not feel comfortable doing the job yourself.

Composition of the belts

Positioning belts come in a variety of sizes and are usually made out of a heavy-duty nylon material that is both durable and comfortable. Most belts have padding placed under the belt buckle to provide additional comfort. The belt ends will generally connect together with clips that are made out of metal or with a hook-and-loop-style enclosure.

Uses for the belts

These belts may not be necessary for standard manual wheelchairs that are primarily used around the home, but they are ideal for any type of chair that will be used outdoors. A chair that travels on sidewalks or streets will go over uneven and sometimes cracked pavement, which can make for a choppy ride. The positioning belt will hold the rider firmly in place as they safely navigate these rougher surfaces.

Any sport-related wheelchair will need a belt to strap the athlete into the seat. This includes chairs that are designed for racing, beach-related sporting events, tennis, basketball, and any activity that involves moving at high speeds. The belts are especially important for any sport which may be considered a full contact sport.most notably wheelchair hockey.

Wheelchairs that are designed for showering should also incorporate these belts. They will ensure that the user is not at risk of slipping out of the chair while inside the shower, especially since soap and shampoo can cause the chair to become very slick.

Wheelchair users can maintain very energetic and active lifestyles and find proper chairs for any activity they wish to participate in. By using a positioning belt, the users can be confident that they will remain safely secured to the chair during even the most rigorous events. The belts provide security, but they do not inhibit motion or flexibility, which makes them an ideal security measure for chair users.