wheelchair

(wēl′char″)

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A type of mobility device for personal transport. Traditional wheelchairs have a seating area set between two large wheels, with two smaller wheels at the front. These can be self-propelled through handrims or pushed by another person. Advances in wheelchair design have provided alternatives that accommodate obstacles and rough terrain. Lightweight, collapsible models exist, as well as models designed for racing and sports. Powered wheelchairs and scooters, driven by electric motors, can be controlled through electronic switches and enable mobility by persons with muscle weakness or paralysis.
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