Wheel Chairs and Curb Ramps

Impact of curb ramps on people with mobility impairments

Curb ramps are designed to provide access to people who use wheeled forms of mobility. Without curb ramps, people who use wheelchairs would not be able to independently access the sidewalk and street. However, not all wheelchairs perform the same on a curb ramp. Common types of wheeled mobility devices include manual and powered wheelchairs, as well as powered scooters. Each type of technology will benefit from different aspects of the curb ramp design. For example, most powered mobility devices are maneuverable in small spaces due to their short wheelbase. Scooters have a longer wheelbase but have manual steering, and most can perform a three-point turn in tight spaces. Manual wheelchairs can turn on their own wheelbase but are difficult to steer on a cross slope as they tend to turn downhill.

For many people with mobility impairments, curb ramps are not critical to access. In fact, in some situations curb ramps make it more difficult for some people with mobility impairments to navigate. Crutches and canes are sized to fit the individual user so that the energy required for ambulation is minimized on a hard, level surface. Use of these types of walking aids is more difficult on sloped surfaces such as curb ramps. Cane, walker, or crutch users must lower their body forward when going downhill. On uphill slopes, the cane or crutch must be lifted higher and placed on the surface. The user must have the strength to lift his or her body up over the supporting device. Widening the crosswalk to allow people to use either the curb or the curb ramp will enhance access for cane and crutch users who are not comfortable traveling on a sloped surface.

Nicole Thomas offers wheel chair tips and advice at:
http://www.wheelchairtips.com

Choosing A Home Exercise Equipment

Technology in the 21st century has made life much easier... Read More

So, You?re Looking For Discount Treadmills. Decision Time.

A treadmill, although one of the best pieces of indoor... Read More

Best Home Gyms Tips

Best home gymsIt isn't always easy to find the best... Read More

Want To Compare Treadmills? Have You Done Your Homework First?

Buying a treadmill can be daunting experience. Aren't there a... Read More

Blood Pressure Monitor - Is Youre Blood Pressure OK?

The focus on reducing high blood pressure in today's society... Read More

7 Essential Reasons You Should Have a Home Gym

The home gym is an amazing resource that you should... Read More

My Golden Gym

"Don't accept your dog's admiration as conclusive evidence that you... Read More

Pro-Form 765i Interactive Trainer Treadmill

For under $1000 you can purchase the Pro-Form 765i interactive... Read More

Research is Key When Buying a Treadmill - Check Out the Best Treadmill Ratings and Reviews Online!

A home treadmill offers many advantages ? just imagine, no... Read More

There Are Alot Of Features To Look For When Deciding On An Elliptical Trainer Thats Perfect For You

Have you decided to purchase a piece of home workout... Read More

Save Money on Treadmills by Avoiding These 5 Marketing Traps

There are lots of great marketing people in the treadmill... Read More

How to Shop for a Treadmill

Treadmills have become the hottest home exercise choice. According to... Read More

Free Weights vs. Exercise Machines

Anyone who has ever been in a gym before is... Read More

5 Ways To Get The Most From Your Home Gym

A home gym can help you build muscle, produce an... Read More

Cheap Elliptical Trainers - What You Dont Know Can Cost You Big Time

Should you ever consider purchasing a cheap elliptical trainer? It's... Read More

Cycling Your Way To Fitness - Stationary Exercise Bikes - Still A Top Choice For Overall Fitness

Stationary Exercise Bikes - Still A Top Choice For Overall... Read More

Commercial Elliptical Machines

With the fitness craze that is going on in the... Read More

Treadmills ? Keep On Running

There are benefits to the use of treadmills as part... Read More

Why Buy A Treadmill?

Buying a home treadmill? Treadmills are still the most popular... Read More

Buying A Treadmill - 3 Essential Tips

If you're buying a treadmill, chances are you've done lots... Read More

Balls That Could Be The Remedy For Your Workouts

The attic door swings open.Behind the ancient bumper pool table,... Read More

Try A Landice Treadmill

Landice treadmills receive rave reviews from consumers and exercise magazines.... Read More

Treadmill Weight Loss - 5 Ways A Treadmill Helps You Lose Weight

So why are treadmills STILL the #1 home exercise machines... Read More

The Reebok Elliptical - A Brief Review

When considering the Reebok Elliptical for your workout, there are... Read More

Benefits of Online Fitness Programs

There are many benefits of choosing an online fitness program... Read More