SUNRISE MEDICAL MK-130101 Mid Wheel Drive Power Wheelchair Instructions
- September 27, 2024
- SUNRISE MEDICAL
Table of Contents
MK-130101 Mid Wheel Drive Power Wheelchair
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Specifications
-
Product Type: Manual Wheelchair Power Assist Device
-
Model: Empulse R90 push device
-
Compatibility: Can be used with folding or rigid manual
wheelchairs -
Control: Hand controller mounted on the side rail
-
Power Source: Battery-operated
Product Usage Instructions
Attaching the Push Device
To attach the push device to the manual wheelchair, follow these
steps:
-
Position the unit on the wheelchair frame.
-
Securely clamp the device to the frame using the provided
brackets. -
Ensure the hand controller is accessible and mounted on the
side rail for easy control.
Using the Push Device
Once the push device is attached, follow these guidelines for
optimal usage:
-
Control the speed using the hand controller mounted on the side
rail. -
Pay attention in small environments to maneuver
effectively. -
Use on harder ground and pavement for best results.
-
Monitor battery levels for extended distances and recharge as
needed.
FAQ
Q: Can the push device be used on all types of manual
wheelchairs?
A: The push device is compatible with most folding or rigid
manual wheelchairs, but may require different brackets depending on
the type and width of the wheelchair.
Q: How do I know when to recharge the battery of the push
device?
A: Monitor the battery levels regularly and recharge when the
power is low to ensure uninterrupted usage.
Q: Is it safe to use the push device in outdoor
environments?
A: The push device is best suited for harder ground and
pavement. Avoid using it on soft surfaces like grass and dirt to
prevent loss of traction.
“`
PLEASE SEE THE DISCLAIMER INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THE LAST PAGE OF THIS
DOCUMENT
Choosing Your Optimal Manual Wheelchair Power Assist Device
When choosing a power assist/add-on device for a manual wheelchair, consider
that each has distinct capabilities, benefits, and drawbacks. This guide
provides an easy-to-understand overview of the considerations and implications
for each broad category of devices.
Independent Propulsion Power Assist
Push Devices
PRODUCT CONSIDERATIONS
Wheelchair Compatibility
Air Travel Considerations
Wheel Add-Ons
Pull Devices
Wheelchair Footprint
Control in Small Environments
Use in Outdoor Environments
Use for Extended Distances
CLIENT CONSIDERATIONS
Hand Function/Strength for Attaching to the Wheelchair
Ease of Use
Options for Degenerative Diagnosis
Considerations with Stopping
Compatibility for Hemiplegic Clients
Hand Function for Controlling
Caregiver Power Assist
Caregiver Push Devices
Caregiver Wheel Add-Ons
(Page 1 of 13)
Independent Propulsion Power Assist
There is strong evidence for increased incidence of upper limb (UL) repetitive
strain injuries (RSI) among manual wheelchair users. These injuries occur due
to repetitive movements and result in muscle tears, inflammation, nerve
impingement, bursitis, and pain. They primarily affect the shoulders, wrists,
and elbows and can manifest as rotator cuff impairments, carpal tunnel
syndromes, and “tennis elbow,” among other symptoms. Research indicates that
power assist devices can help to preserve independent function & UL health and
reduce risk of future damage while still allowing independent mobility with a
manual wheelchair.
Push Devices
A unit is clamped on to the wheelchair frame and “pushes” the manual
wheelchair forward. Speed on/off is controlled by a hand controller generally
mounted on the side rail.
Empulse R90 push device
Push devices are generally the easiest power-assist devices to attach and remove
Wheelchair Compatibility
PRODUCT CONSIDERATIONS
Air Travel Considerations
Wheelchair Footprint
Factor
Most can be used with
either folding or rigid manual wheelchairs, but require different
brackets depending on type and width.
Consideration
Factor
Consideration
Factor
Consideration
Consider the
These are the Check that the The power assist For the devic-
bracket’s weight smallest and light- size of the battery is mounted to the es that do add
compared to its est of the models. meets both wheelchair’s cam- length, consider
durability.
Consider whether distance and the battery can be transportation
ber tube to prevent adding
how this will affect
easily removed for requirements.
width to
maneuverability,
air travel. A few
the system.
especially in
have lithium
Some devices
small areas.
batteries that can
add length.
be removed and
put into the cargo
hold of the plane
(with prior approv-
al of the airline).
(Page 2 of 13)
Push Devices (Continued)
PRODUCT CONSIDERATIONS
Control In Small Environments Use In Outdoor Environments
Use For Extended Distances
Factor
Consideration
Good in small Consider the cli-
environments if ent’s cognitive
the client can
ability and
control it well. wheelchair skills.
The client will
need to pay
attention and
monitor speed in
tighter/busier
environments.
Factor
Best suited for harder ground and pavement.
Consideration
Depending on the terrain, it can lose traction on soft surfaces like
grass and dirt.
Factor
Consideration
Great for longer It’s not a power
distance travel. wheelchair, but
it will allow the cli-
ent to go
further with less
fatigue/effort.
CLIENT CONSIDERATIONS
Hand Function and Strength
For Attaching / Detaching to
the Wheelchair
Ease of Use
Options For Degenerative
Diagnosis
Factor
Consideration
Factor
Consideration
Factor
Consideration
These devices are Consider if the cli- Some systems Consider whether Most of these Push devices do
generally one
ent has range have simple dials your client has devices can be
not have the
of the lighter of motion, motor to change the
the cognitive programmed to same progrming-
devices in
control, and speed, some use ability and adapt to declining capabilities as a
comparison to
strength to push buttons or reaction speed strength and UL
power
the other types
remove the
a series of taps. to adequately function. Some wheelchair, and
(13-17 lbs.),
device. In some These devices control the device, are able to adapt power seat
allowing easier models, the wheel do not have a especially in busy to the loss of connection or can retract off braking function areas or at faster some ability on
functions can’t be added.
removal from the ground so it and require the speeds. Some of
one side
Consider whether
the wheelchair. doesn’t need to rider to stop the the devices are (hemiplegia). your client would
be removed when wheelchair using not as intuitive
be better suited
not being used. the handrims
to use.
for a power
after cutting
wheelchair.
power to the
unit using the
control system.
(Page 3 of 13)
Push Devices (Continued)
CLIENT CONSIDERATIONS
Considerations
With Stopping
Compatibility For
Hemiplegic Clients
Hand Function
For Controlling
Factor
Consideration
Factor
Consideration
Clients need to Once the chair
Most can be These devices can
have the strength is set in motion, controlled by one be challenging
to stop the wheelchair by
even if they turn hand. Remember off the device, they require the
to use for full hemiplegics.
holding the
the chair does rider to stop the
handrims/wheels. not have brakes wheelchair using
like a power
the handrims
wheelchair. They after cutting
will need to
power to the
physically stop unit using the
the wheelchair. control system.
Factor
These devices have some type
of a control box for speed
and on/off.
Consideration
Consider whether your client has
adequate strength and finger function to
safely control the wheelchair.
Wheel Add-Ons
Motors are incorporated into the wheels, which then provide forward
propulsion.
EMPULSE M90 wheel add-on
Wheelchair Compatibility
PRODUCT CONSIDERATIONS
Air Travel Considerations
Wheelchair Footprint
Factor
Consideration
Factor
Consideration
Factor
Consideration
Most can be
With most Consider whether Check the size Consider whether Consider if
used with either devices, the
the battery can of the battery the device adds the increased
folding or
wheels are be easily removed
meets
width to the
width will
rigid manual
similar to a
for airline travel transportation wheelchair as it impede function.
wheelchairs, but normal manual or transport . requirements. depends on the
require different wheelchair but Powered wheels Also some device unit selected.
brackets depend- with extra weight. need to be
batteries are
ing on type. The tire options stowed carefully. easier to remove
may be limited.
than others.
(Page 4 of 13)
Wheel Add-Ons (Continued)
PRODUCT CONSIDERATIONS
Control In Small Environments Use In Outdoor Environments
Use For Extended Distances
Factor
Great in small environments
where maneuverability
is essential, as the client is fully in control of the device.
Consideration
A winner in this regard as long as the footprint size isn’t altered and the
width doesn’t impede getting through doorways
or reduce maneuverability.
Factor
Best suited for harder ground and pavement.
Consideration
Remember: it is not a power wheelchair and it has normal manual wheel-
chair-sized wheels and tires.
Factor
Consideration
Great for longer It’s not a power
distance travel. wheelchair, but
it will allow the cli-
ent to go
further with less fatigue/effort.
CLIENT CONSIDERATIONS
Hand Function and Strength
For Attaching / Detaching to
the Wheelchair
Ease of Use
Options For Degenerative
Diagnosis
Factor
Consideration
Factor
Consideration
Factor
Consideration
This type of device Consider wheth- Because the cli- Consider whether Most wheel
Wheel add-on
adds weight to the er the wheels ent pushes the your client has add-on devices devices do not
wheels- some add will need to be handrims like
the cognitive
can be pro-
have the same
significant weight, removed and a normal man-
ability and
grammed
capabilities as
others are minimal how often. Is this ual wheelchair, reaction speed to for increasing
a power
additional weight. doable by the cli- learning how to adequately control weakness or wheelchair, nor
ent or family? use them is easy. the deceleration to accommodate can power seat
The motor of the wheelchair,
strength
functions be
multiplies the especially in busy differences. added. Consider
force generated
areas or at
whether your cli-
and can extend faster speeds.
ent would be bet-
the distance
ter suited
per push.
to a power
wheelchair.
(Page 5 of 13)
Wheel Add-Ons (Continued)
CLIENT CONSIDERATIONS
Considerations
With Stopping
Compatibility For
Hemiplegic Clients
Hand Function
For Controlling
Factor
Consideration
Factor
Clients need to Wheel-Add Ons Can program
have the strength do not have brakes for one side
to stop the like a power wheel- substantially
wheelchair by chair. Most have weaker than the
holding the some braking func- other. Will likely
handrims/wheels. tions and allow the need to use a
rider to slowdown foot for accurate
through handrim
steering.
control using less
force than with out
the power assist.
Consideration
These devices can be challenging to use for full hemiplegics.
Factor
Consideration
These devices Consider whether
require the client your client has
to push the adequate strength
handrims like a and control to
normal manual push the handrim.
wheelchair, but
they multiply the
force generated
and can extend
the distance
per push.
Pull Devices
A front wheel assembly is attached to the frame of the wheelchair and a
motorized wheel provides the power. Handlebars allow the client to steer.
EMPULSE F55 pull device
EMPULSE F55 pull device
PRODUCT CONSIDERATIONS
Wheelchair Compatibility
Air Travel Considerations
Wheelchair Footprint
Factor
Consideration
Factor
Consideration
Factor
These devices
Consider
These devices Does the client This device will
require a fixed whether your cli- are bigger and need to transport add substan-
front end so that
ent can
heavier than the the device? If so, tial length to
the unit can transfer in and other types of how will it be load- the wheelchair.
clamp onto the out without
power-assist ed? Is there space Depending on the
wheelchair.
swing-away
devices.
available? device, it can sub-
hangers/foot-
stantially reduce
plates.
maneuverability.
Consideration
Best used in outdoor
environments.
(Page 6 of 13)
Pull Devices (Continued)
PRODUCT CONSIDERATIONS
Control In Small Environments Use In Outdoor Environments
Use For Extended Distances
Factor
Consideration
Factor
Depending on Great in outdoor
Great for
the device, they environments outdoor activities.
can substantially and should be Depending on
reduce
removed for
the device,
maneuverability most indoor
they can have
indoors.
environments. substantial speed
Depending on the and torque.
device, some are
easier to remove
than others.
Consideration
Does the client have the wheelchair skills and cognitive ability
to use the device safely?
Factor
Great for longer distance outdoor
travel.
Consideration
As there are many different models, make sure the wheel size and power
suits the client’s needs and activities.
CLIENT CONSIDERATIONS
Hand Function and Strength
For Attaching / Detaching to
the Wheelchair
Ease of Use
Options For Degenerative
Diagnosis
Factor
Consideration
These devices Consider if the cli-
are heavier and ent has the hand
generally require function to use.
good hand
Also, consider
function to attach whether the
to the wheelchair. attachment
clamps stay on
the chair (adding
weight) when
the device
is not in use.
Factor
These devices are controlled by handlebars
with both a throttle and squeeze-trigger
brakes.
Consideration
Does the client have trunk control and limb function to control safely at
higher speeds and over uneven
terrain?
Factor
These devices require good
trunk and upper extremity
function.
Consideration
May be dificult for progressive
disabilities.
(Page 7 of 13)
Pull Devices (Continued)
CLIENT CONSIDERATIONS
Considerations
With Stopping
Compatibility For
Hemiplegic Clients
Hand Function
For Controlling
Factor
Depending on the power assist, it will
have manual hand brakes, electronic brakes,
or both.
Consideration
Does the client have adequate trunk control and limb/hand
function to manage the
brakes?
Factor
These devices are difficult to
use for full hemiplegics.
Consideration
Factor
Consideration
A different device These devices Does the client
should be
are controlled have the strength
considered for by handlebars, and endurance to
full hemiplegics. requiring hand safely manage
grip and strength. the device?
Caregiver Power Assist
There are clients unable to functionally propel manual wheelchairs and cannot
successfully operate a power wheelchair. For these clients, research has shown
power assist devices can better allow caregivers to provide this mobility,
improving client function and participation.
EMPULSE R20 caregiver push device
Caregiver push devices can help with climbing curbs
Caregiver Push Devices
A powered wheel is attached to the wheelchair, generally to the rear. These
devices are designed for clients who are dependent on caregivers for mobility
but who are also not power wheelchair candidates.
(Page 8 of 13)
Caregiver Push Devices (Continued)
Wheelchair Compatibility
PRODUCT CONSIDERATIONS
Air Travel Considerations
Wheelchair Footprint
Factor
Most of these devices can be used with either a folding, rigid, or
tilt-in-space wheelchair. Depending on the device, it can be removed for
vehicle transport or the client can sit in the system during transport.
Consideration
Factor
Consideration
Factor
Some devices Models differ in Consider the Depending on the
have limitations this category in battery’s location device, this type
on the type of regard to how the and whether it’s of power add-on
tires and wheels battery is removed easy to remove can add length to
that can
for storage,
for storage or the wheelchair.
be utilized.
transport,
transport.
or charging.
Consideration
As the unit is generally mounted at the rear of
the wheelchair, consider whether this impedes a carer walking behind the
wheelchair.
Control In Small Environments Use In Outdoor Environments
Use For Extended Distances
Factor
These devices work quite well
in small environments.
Consideration
Factor
Consideration
As the unit is These devices are
Consider
generally mount- designed for more whether an
ed at
urban outdoor add-on wheel can
the rear of environments and manage the
the wheelchair, generally have
speed and
consider if the slower maximum terrain the
unit adds length.
speeds.
client requires.
Factor
These devices are designed for assisting caregivers in
moving a wheelchair over longer distances.
Consideration
Consider whether an add-on wheel can manage the speed and terrain the client
requires.
(Page 9 of 13)
Caregiver Push Devices (Continued)
CLIENT CONSIDERATIONS
Hand Function and Strength
For Attaching / Detaching to
the Wheelchair
Ease of Use
Options For Degenerative
Diagnosis
Factor
Models differ in this category in regard to product weight and how they attach
to
the chair.
Consideration
Consider the ease of adding/ removing the device. It’s also
important to consider if the wheelchair can be folded with
the device in place.
Factor
Most units are simple to use
with on/off and speed adjustments.
Consideration
Most caregivers can understand and use these devices success-
fully.
Factor
Consideration
As these are Push devices do
controlled by the not have the same
attendant, client capabilities as a
loss of function power wheelchair,
will not impact and power seat
these devices. functions cannot
be added. Consider
whether a large
change in function
is anticipated and
whether the client
might be better
suited to a power
wheelchair.
Considerations
With Stopping
Compatibility For
Hemiplegic Clients
Hand Function
For Controlling
Factor
Consideration
Factor
Consideration
Factor
Consideration
The device has Does the caregiver As these devices Appropriate for These devices
Some devices
power and speed have adequate are controlled by dependent
have some type use very simple
up/down control. strength/skill to the attendant, hemiplegic users. of a control box to dials/push buttons.
Depending on the manage the chair they can be
Remember: it adjust speed and
Others use
device, it may or in the necessary appropriate for does not have the on/off. This
squeeze triggers.
may not have environments, more complex
capacity of a
control box is Consider the ease
electronic braking. including steering hemiplegic cli- power wheelchair. mounted in the
of use for
and stopping?
ents.
attendant position the caregiver.
Some devices may
on the back canes.
not have
electronic brakes.
(Page 10 of 13)
Caregiver Push Devices (Continued)
Caregiver Wheel Add-On
Powered wheels are attached to the wheelchair, replacing the normal rear
wheels. These devices are designed for clients who are dependent on caregivers
for mobility but who are not power wheelchair candidates.
ZIPPIE iXpress caregiver wheel add-on
Wheelchair Compatibility
PRODUCT CONSIDERATIONS
Air Travel Considerations
Wheelchair Footprint
Factor
Most of these devices can be used with either a folding, rigid, or
tilt-in-space wheelchair.
Consideration
Factor
Consideration
Factor
Some devices Models differ in Consider the
The powered
have limitations this category in battery’s location wheels can add to
on the type of regard to how the and whether it’s the overall width
tires that can battery is removed easy to remove of the wheelchair.
be utilized.
for storage,
for storage or
Consider if this
transport,
transport.
is an important or charging.
maintenance
issue.
Consideration
Consider if the increase in width
will impede function and maneuverability.
Control In Small Environments Use In Outdoor Environments
Use For Extended Distances
Factor
Most devices do not add additional length to the wheelchair, but could add
width.
Consideration
A winner in this regard as long as the added width doesn’t impede getting
through
doorways or reduce.
Factor
Consideration
Factor
Consideration
These devices are A great solution These devices are A great solution
designed for for a dependent designed for for a dependent
urban outdoor user who is not a urban outdoor user who is not a
environments power wheelchair environments. power wheelchair
with harder candidate and is They general- candidate and
surfaces.
using the device ly have higher
whose carer
mostly on
speeds, more
cannot push
sidewalks and power, and a bit
a manual
paved surfaces. more capacity wheelchair over
when compared the distances
to add-on wheel
required.
devices.
(Page 11 of 13)
Caregiver Wheel Add-On (Continued)
CLIENT CONSIDERATIONS
Hand Function and Strength
For Attaching / Detaching to
the Wheelchair
Ease of Use
Options For Degenerative
Diagnosis
Factor
Consideration
Models differ in Consider if the
this category in device needs to
regard to product be removed from
weight and how the wheelchair.
they attach to the Most can stay on
chair. Some a wheelchair per-
are considerably manently. If the
more complicated chair needs to be
to remove
folded, consider
than others.
if the device
allows this.
Factor
Most units are simple to use
with on/off and speed adjustments.
Consideration
These devices are simple to learn how to use.
Factor
Consideration
As these are
Wheel add-on
controlled by the devices do not
attendant, client have the same
loss of function capabilities as a
will not impact power wheelchair,
these devices. and power seat
functions cannot
be added. Consider
whether a large
change in function
is anticipated and
whether the client
might be better
suited to a power
wheelchair.
Considerations
With Stopping
Push Devices(Continued)
Compatibility For
Hemiplegic Clients
Hand Function
For Controlling
Factor
The device has power and speed up/down control. Depending on the device, it
may or
may not have electronic braking.
Consideration
These devices are easy for caregivers to use.
Factor
Consideration
Factor
Consideration
As these devices Appropriate for These devices
Some devices
are controlled by dependent
have some type use very simple
the attendant, hemiplegic users. of a control box to dials/push buttons.
client hemiplegia Remember: it adjust speed and Consider the ease
will not impact does not have the on/off. This
of use for
their use of
capacity of a
control box is
the attendant.
the device. power wheelchair. mounted in the
attendant position
on the back canes.
(Page 12 of 13)
Choosing Your Optimal Manual Wheelchair Power Assist Device
References
1. Kentar, Y. et al. 2018. Prevalence of upper extremity pain in a population
of people with paraplegia. Spinal Cord 56, 695-703.
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Gamache, S., Borisoff, J. F., & Gagnon, D. (2021). Scoping review of
propelling aids for manual wheelchairs. Assistive Technology, 33(2), 72-86.
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10400435.2019.1595789?journalCode=uaty20
3. Didier Pradon, Elodie Garrec, Isabelle Vaugier, Thierry Weissland &
Caroline Hugeron (2021) Effect of power-assistance on upper limb biomechanical
and physiological variables during a 6-minute, manual wheelchair propulsion
test: a randomised, cross-over study, Disability and Rehabilitation, DOI:
10.1080/09638288.2021.1973586
4. Elliot W. Flockhart, William C. Miller, Jory A. Campbell, Johanne L.
Mattie & Jaimie F. Borisoff (2021) Evaluation of two power assist systems for
manual wheelchairs for usability, performance and mobility: a pilot study,
Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology, DOI:
10.1080/17483107.2021.200106
5. Khalili, Eugenio, A., Wood, A., Van der Loos, M., Mortenson, W. B., &
Borisoff, J. (2021). Perceptions of power-assist devices: interviews with
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ahead-of-print(ahead-of-print), 1-11.
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/17483107.2021.1906963?journalCode=iidt20
6. Sawatzky, Mortenson, W. B., & Wong, S. (2018). Learning to use a rear-
mounted power assist for manual wheelchairs. Disability and Rehabilitation:
Assistive Technology, 13(8), 772-776.
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/17483107.2017.1375562?journalCode=iidt20
7. Wong, Mortenson, B., & Sawatzky, B. (2019). Starting and stopping kinetics
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31(2), 77-81.
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10400435.2017.1366373?journalCode=uaty20
DISCLAIMER: FOR PROFESSIONAL USE ONLY. THIS DOCUMENT (AND THE WEBSITE REFERENCED HEREIN) DO NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. Sunrise Medical (US) LLC does not provide clinician services. The information contained on this document (and the website referenced herein), including, but not limited to, the text, graphics, images, and descriptions, are for informational purposes only and should be utilized as a general resource for clinicians and suppliers to then use clinical reasoning skills to determine optimal seating and mobility solutions for individual patients. No material on this document (or on the website) is intended to be used as (or a substitute for) professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Clinicians should adhere to their professional medical training and their institution’s or practice’s recommended guidelines. Reliance on this document (and the information contained herein) is solely at your own risk.
Sunrise Medical (US) LLC, Fresno, CA 93727 MK-130101 Rev. B ©05.2024
800.333.4000
w w w. S u n r i s e M e d i c a l . c o m / E I M
(Page 13 of 13)
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