Power Assist Device Options
Shoulder pain or shoulder injuries are notorious causes for decreased mobility, independence, and quality of life for those using a manual wheelchair. A power assist device is an added feature to a manual wheelchair that uses mechanical force to help with self-propulsion. This could be an option for manual wheelchair users to reduce strain and pain on shoulders, enable propelling longer distances, and maximize your engagement in your favorite activities.
Below are 2 types of power assist devices with personal reflection on the advantages and challenges of each. Everyone has their unique strengths, abilities, and challenges; please be sure to consult with your therapist and Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) to identify which options may give you the best advantages to living your best life.
Rear Mounted Drive
Rear mounted device is attached to the axel of a wheelchair using a single motor to propel. This uses blue tooth and switches/device to help guide speed, start, and stop the assist.
Advantages
· Lightest weight option out of all the power assist devices
o Battery is inside the single motor
· Has variety of options for control- Smart Watch, Dial, switch
· Able to change speeds and assist- easily activated
· Easily removable for transfers.
· Complies with Folding or Rigid frames
Challenges
· Must have certain level of training due to reaction time and cognitive flexibility to manage speeds.
· Can become detached if on bumpy or rugged terrain.
· Requires some understanding of dial use or higher tech smart watches
Hub Drive Wheels
Hub drive devices have a battery and computer built into each wheel itself. The assist kicks in once you start to push via the rims.
Advantages
· You can customized how much help each wheel provides, therefore compensates if one arm is weaker than the other.
· Most intuitive to use
· Has an option for a joystick
Challenges
· Heaviest of the options including an external battery back with each wheel weighs about 22lbs.
o If the battery dies, this means an additional +40Ibsto push.
· Some difficulty taking on/off Hub Wheel due to weight
o This an impact car transfers, fixing or exchanging wheels.
BIAS ALERT:: These advantages and challenges are subjective and DEPEND ON A BODY’S ABILITIES. Reach out to Westpeak Mobility to schedule an appointment with an ATP to identify which would work best for your lifestyle.
Insurance and funding
Per Medicare guidelines, a power assist device must follow power chair guidelines for application. This means a manual wheelchair user must have documented difficulty with mobility related activities of daily living (MRADLS) in their home for a minimum of one year to qualify. This is important for your physical/occupational therapist and/or physician to identify.
Private insurance has varying qualifications; therefore you must reach out to your insurance carrier to identify the special requirements they have for you to qualify for a power assist device.
You may also pay out of pocket.
**NOTE: This blog is for an educational purpose only and is not intended as a medical advice. Please see seek out a physician for medical concerns or emergency.