How To Tighten Wheelchair Brakes? (Keep Breaks Working Properly To AVOID Falls)

If your wheelchair has brakes that aren’t working correctly, it can be a severe safety hazard. Falls are the leading cause of injuries for people in wheelchairs, so it’s essential to make sure your brakes are in good condition.

Here are some tips on how to tighten wheelchair brakes and keep them working correctly.

The Importance of Keeping Wheelchair Brakes in Good Condition

If you use a wheelchair, keeping your brakes in good condition is essential. Your brakes keep you safe when you’re out and about, so it’s necessary to check them regularly and ensure they’re working correctly. 

You can do a few things to keep your wheelchair brakes in good condition:

• Make sure that the wheels are clean and free of debris. This will help to prevent the brakes from sticking.
• Check the brakes themselves for wear and tear. If you see any damage, getting it fixed as soon as possible is essential.
• Make sure that the brake cables are adequately lubricated. Lubrication will help to keep them from rusting and eventually breaking. 

Following these simple tips can help keep your wheelchair brakes in good condition and stay safe when you’re out and about.

How To Tighten Wheelchair Brakes

If you’re having trouble with your wheelchair brakes, you can do a few things to tighten them up.

First, inspect the brake frame for the block that holds it to the device frame. This is usually connected to the wheelchair bar, which is attached to the brake.

Next, ensure the screws are tight, and the block is securely in place. Next, check the tires to ensure they’re correctly inflated. This will help the brakes grip better. 

Finally, use an Allen key to adjust the brake to be tighter against the tire. Apply a small amount of pressure to the brakes while doing this so that they don’t slip. 

Once you’ve got the desired level of tension, lock the brake in place and test it out. If everything feels good, you’re all set!

How Do You Lock Brakes on a Wheelchair?

Most wheelchairs have brakes that can be locked in place to keep the chair from rolling.

To lock the brakes, depress the pedal with your foot. Once the pedal is depressed, the brakes will engage, and the chair will be in place. 

If you need to release the brakes, lift the pedal in the opposite direction from the locking direction.

It’s always a good idea to check that the brakes are locked before getting out of the chair or standing up, as this can help prevent accidental falls.

How To Adjust Handbrakes on a Wheelchair Handle

The first thing you should do when adjusting the handbrakes on a wheelchair is to check the brake handle. 

Apply the handbrake to make sure it’s tight enough and tight enough. If it needs to be adjusted, you can change the brake tension by twisting the counterclockwise and breaking the brake handle adjustment nut. 

The brake handle tension should be adjusted more loosely or firmly, depending on what you need.

If the lever doesn’t react quickly, you can tighten the brake tension by turning the handle brake nut counterclockwise. 

On the other hand, if the wheelchair’s back wheel is scraping when you apply the brakes, you’ll need to adjust the brake handle, so it’s locked in place. To do this, turn the adjustment nut for the brakes counterclockwise.

Tips for Avoiding Falls While in a Wheelchair

Falls are a common hazard for people who use wheelchairs, but there are a few simple steps that can be taken to reduce the risk:

• Ensuring the wheelchair is the right size and fit for the individual is vital. A wheelchair that is too big or too small can be unstable and difficult to control.
• Keeping the device in good repair is essential; regularly checking for loose bolts or frayed upholstery.
• One must be aware of one’s surroundings and avoid cluttered or slippery surfaces whenever possible.

The Bottom Line

Wheelchair brakes are an essential part of staying safe while in a wheelchair. Therefore, it is crucial to keep them in good condition and know how to tighten the wheelchair brakes when necessary.

These tips should help you avoid falls and stay safe while using your wheelchair. Or when you assist a wheelchair user and push a wheelchair up or down a ramp.