Wheelchair Gloves

The hands of a manual wheelchair owner hold tremendous power. They are the engine, the steering, and the brakes. They are the heart of a chair owner’s mobility. They also take a great deal of abuse. A wheelchair owner’s hands are exposed to constant friction and heat generated by pushing, stopping and turning. They are numbed and desensitized in cold and wet weather.

At least 18% of wheelchair users experience blisters, abrasions, and lacerations. Many more develop thick, rough calluses. In addition, signs of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can develop, which can be debilitating.

According to studies performed by Dr H. Gellman and his team from Rancho Los Amigos Medical Center in California, 49% of paraplegic patients showed symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Dr. Coopers and Dr. Robertson of California State University reported that research in this area suggests carpal tunnel syndrome may be the result of nerve compression that occurs during forceful exertions with the hand and wrist in hyperflexion or hyperextension.

Hands were simply not designed to withstand the repetitive impact and constant contact with wheelchair push rims.

Fortunately, there are ways to minimize the effects of constant stress and exposure to the hands. Many researchers strongly recommend the use of properly designed wheelchair gloves to minimize hand injury.

Wheelchair Gloves Can Provide Relief

Properly designed gloves can provide:

• Protection against skin damage caused by starting, stopping and turning the wheelchair.
• Protection against injury caused by vibrations and repeated impact.
• Improved stopping and maneuverability
• Comfort in cold or wet weather

Unfortunately, many gloves marketed as "wheelchair gloves" may fall apart under intense usage, or worse, are inappropriate for the lifestyles of their owners.

The requirements of an athlete can be different from a moderately active person who is using a wheelchair in cold weather. The needs of a person with limited hand function are different from those of a person who is experiencing a great deal of vibration or impact to the hand.

Therefore, look for gloves made from durable top-quality materials and are specially designed to meet the diverse needs of different types of wheelchair owners.

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