Van Os Medical Wheelchairs: Complete Guide to you

Since 1971, Van Os Medical has been a leading name in innovative wheelchair design and mobility solutions. Renowned for their functional features, comfort, and stylish design, Van Os wheelchairs are trusted by users across the UK and Europe. If you want to buy a Van Os wheelchair or get a better one than your old one, this blog will help you understand for know everything. 

Whether for self-use or to help someone else, with their lightweight frame, folding system and comfortable-to-use design, they give users more independence and also make things easier for caregivers. Whether you are new to Van Os or just want to gather more information about your old wheelchair, Let's start diving into their brilliant standout features, smart usage tips, and an easy way to keep everything running like cheese.

Popular Van Os Medical Wheelchair Models

The G-Series represents Van Os Medical's contemporary approach to wheelchair design with several outstanding models:

Understanding Your Van Os Medical Wheelchair Components

To use and look after your wheelchair properly, it helps to know the parts:

• Push handles – For comfort when someone is pushing the chair

• Foldable backrest – Makes it easier to fold and store the wheelchair

• Armrests – Often adjustable for comfort

• Rear wheels – 24" with quick-release (on self-propelled models)

• Seat – Where you sit; some models allow you to adjust the depth

• Legrests – Often removable and can swing away for transfers

• Brakes – Important for safety when not moving

• Steppers – Helps carer lift the chair over small obstacles or kerbs

• Footplates – For your feet; you can adjust the height

• Front wheels (casters) – Small wheels (7") for smooth turning

How to Get Over Obstacles Safely

Kerb (with help):

1. Carer positions the back wheels close to the kerb

2. Lean back slightly in your seat

3. Carer tilts the chair back

4. They push you slowly up and over the kerb

Down a kerb:

1. Sit facing forward at the edge of the kerb

2. Carer tilts the chair onto its back wheels

3. They lower the front wheels first, then slowly roll the whole chair down

Stairs:

Up stairs (with 2 carers):

1. Place chair backwards at the bottom of the stairs

2. Carer behind tilts the chair back and holds the push handle

3. Carer in front holds the side frame

4. Carer in front lifts the chair while carer behind climbs up a step

5. Repeat for each step

Down stairs:

1. Sit facing forward at the top of the stairs

2. Carer behind lifts the chair to find the balance point Tilts

3. Carer in front holds the side frames for extra support

4. They lower the chair one step at a time

Safety Tips

• Never lift the wheelchair by the push handles, armrests or footrests – always hold the main frame

• Don’t stand on the footrests – it will tip the chair over

• Always apply brakes when not moving, especially when getting in or out

• Footrest must be at least 7cm off the ground to avoid scraping

• No wheelies – they’re dangerous and can hurt you

• Don’t hang anything on the wheels – it will damage the chair and throw it off balance

Transporting Your Van Os Wheelchair

Van Os Medical wheelchairs are designed for transport:

Car Transport Tips

1. Fold the wheelchair as described above

2. Remove quick-release wheels if needed to reduce size

3. Place the folded chair in your boot securely

4. Use straps or bungee cords to prevent movement during transport

Public Transport Considerations

1. Check accessibility options before you travel

2. Ensure your wheelchair fits lift and ramp specifications

3. Familiarise yourself with boarding procedures

4. Always apply brakes when on moving vehicles

Choosing the Right Van Os Wheelchair for You

When choosing a Van Os Medical wheelchair consider:

1. User Weight Capacity: Does the model support your weight safely

2. Seat Width and Depth: Proper sizing is key for comfort and pressure distribution

3. Self-Propel vs Transit: Choose based on user ability and primary use

4. Indoor vs Outdoor Use: Consider wheel type and size for intended environment

5. Transport Requirements: Folding mechanism and weight if you need to transport frequently