Why Is My Wheelchair Hard to Push?
There are several reasons why you might find your wheelchair hard to push. It is a common struggle to feel like you are straining your arms, struggle with slopes, feel fatigued or find it difficult to turn.
If your wheelchair is hard to push, it might not necessarily mean you need a new wheelchair. Several factors can make your wheelchair harder to push, from underinflated tyres to poorly positioned wheel.
In this blog, we'll explore the common causes and solutions to make your manual wheelchair easier to push.
1. Your Tyres May Be Underinflated
Underinflated tyres are a common reason why a wheelchair can be harder to push than usual.
When air-filled tyres lose pressure, they create more rolling resistance; when there is more resistance, you will need to use more force to move your wheelchair forward. Even a small change can make pushing noticeably harder, particularly over longer distances.
What can you do?
Check your tyre pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer's recommended level. If your wheelchair has solid tyres, you won't need to check the pressure, but it's still worth looking for signs of wear or damage.
2. Your Front Castors May Be Causing Resistance
Your wheelchair's front castors play an important role in steering and manoeuvrability.
Over time, hair, dirt and debris can accumulate around the castor axles, preventing them from rotating freely. Worn bearings or damaged castors can also make your wheelchair harder to push or turn.
Castor size matters too. Smaller castors can be more difficult to push over uneven ground, while larger castors generally handle outdoor surfaces and small obstacles more easily.
What can you do?
Regularly inspect your castors for visible debris, wear or damage. If they feel stiff, wobble excessively or don't rotate smoothly, ask an engineer to check them. You can call 0800 025 8005 to book an appointment with a Wheelfreedom engineer if you are based in London, Surrey or the South East of England.
3. Your Wheelchair's Centre of Gravity May Need Adjusting
Your rear wheel position affects how easily you propel your wheelchair. When the rear wheels are positioned further back, more weight may rest on the front castors, increasing rolling resistance. Moving the rear wheels forwards can improve access to the hand rims and make propulsion more efficient.
However, moving the wheels forwards also reduces rearward stability, so finding the right position involves balancing manoeuvrability with safety.
What can you do?
A wheelchair assessor can review your seating position and centre of gravity to determine whether adjustments could make propulsion easier. Avoid changing the rear wheel position yourself without professional guidance, as incorrect adjustments can increase the risk of tipping.
4. Your Wheelchair May Need Servicing
If your wheelchair has gradually become harder to push, general wear and tear could be contributing to the problem.
Common issues include:
Brakes rubbing against the tyres
Worn or damaged wheel bearings
Misaligned rear wheels
Loose or damaged components
Dirt accumulating around wheel axles
These issues can increase resistance, making every push require more effort.
What can you do?
Regular maintenance can help keep your wheelchair moving smoothly. If you notice unusual noises, resistance or changes in handling, arranging a service can help identify the cause before it becomes a bigger problem.
5. Your Wheelchair May Not Be Suited to the Terrain
If you noticed your wheelchair is easier to push indoors compared to the outdoors, it might not be suited for bumpy grounds.
Different surfaces create different levels of rolling resistance. Thick carpets, gravel, grass and uneven pavements generally require more effort than smooth, hard surfaces.
Wheelchair configuration also plays a role. For example, smaller castor wheels can struggle to roll over bumps and uneven surfaces, requiring more effort to propel your wheelchair. Different tyre types can affect traction, comfort and propulsion efficiency.
What can you do?
Consider where you use your wheelchair most often. If you travel outdoors frequently, it might be worth exploring whether larger wheels, different tyres or equipment would better suit you.
6. Your Wheelchair May Be Too Heavy or Poorly Configured
The weight of your wheelchair, including its accessories and anything you're carrying, can affect how much effort is needed to move it, particularly on slopes. However, weight isn't the only consideration. A heavier wheelchair that's properly configured may be easier to propel than a lighter wheelchair with an unsuitable setup. Your seat position, rear wheel placement and access to the hand rims can all influence how efficiently you move.
What can you do?
If your wheelchair feels consistently difficult to propel, consider having its overall configuration reviewed before deciding to replace it.
How Can I Make My Manual Wheelchair Easier to Push?
If you've checked the common causes and still find yourself struggling, there are several options worth exploring.
Consider a Powered Add-On
Powered add-ons attach to compatible manual wheelchairs to reduce the physical effort required for propulsion. Depending on the type, they can assist with each push or provide powered movement, making longer journeys, hills and uneven terrain easier to manage. They can be particularly useful for wheelchair users who want to continue using their manual wheelchair but would benefit from additional assistance.
Explore a Lightweight Active Wheelchair
For people who regularly self-propel, a lightweight active wheelchair may offer more responsive handling and efficient movement. These wheelchairs are often highly adjustable, allowing the seating position, rear wheels and other components to be configured around the user's needs. However, the lightest wheelchair isn't always the most suitable. Comfort, stability, posture and everyday activities should also be considered.
Arrange a Wheelchair Reassessment
If you need help adjusting your wheelchair or finding a new wheelchair with a better fit, speak to a Wheelfreedom assessor. Call us on 0800 025 8005 or email [email protected] to book an assessment at our Chessington showroom or in the comfort of your home.
An assessment with one of our specialists can help determine whether adjustments to your existing equipment, additional accessories or an alternative wheelchair would be beneficial.
