Wheelchair Basketball - Getting Involved

Wheelchair basketball originated as rehabilitation exercise after World War II for ex-service people with spinal cord injuries. It has subsequently developed into an extremely popular sport incorporating a wide range of wheelchair athletes. It is one of the most popular sports at the Paralympic Games and is now played at competitive level by over 25,000 people in some 90 countries worldwide.

Thousands more play socially in schools, clubs and colleges. It is played by two teams of five and is similar to the running version of the game using the same sized court and almost identical rules. The ball is moved via dribbling or passing and players must throw or bounce the ball after every two pushes of the wheelchair or be penalised for 'travelling'. One point is scored for a successful free throw, two for a normal field basket and three from behind the arc of the three point line.

Professional wheelchair basketball players use purpose built titanium chairs costing upwards of £3,500 and they only last for about six months during intensive competition. Players are assigned a classification that equates to a number of points. Each team must have a minimum points total.

If you are interested in playing at a local club you will find information on the Great Britain Wheelchair Basketball Association (GBWBA) website at http://www.gbwba.org.uk/. The GBWBA acknowledges the crucial role regional clubs play in promoting and maintain the growth of Wheelchair Basketball throughout the UK.

The GBWBA club development policy encourages clubs to provide a safe environment for participants to play and provides a clear structure towards fostering sporting excellence, increases the number of participants and funding avenues available and is committed to increasing the number of volunteers, coaches and officials available for wheelchair basketball. All this sets a clear pathway for local clubs to slot into local, regional and national programmes and helps them to achieve their targets.

Once you have located your closest club on the GBWBA's 'Find a Club' page, go on down to speak to one of the coaches or volunteers to enquire about joining in and to find out the sort of skills you will need to develop for wheelchair basketball. Players must not only master proper handling of the ball but proper handling of the wheelchair is a crucial element. This is difficult to master as the hands are occupied with both ball handling and wheelchair mobility and some chair skills need to be updated so that they can be applied whilst still keeping control of the ball, for example for pivots and stationary turns.

With enough practice and determination you will begin to make the simultaneous control of chair and ball look effortless. You can take the sport as far as you like; for recreation and exercise or you may just become good enough to compete in the League or go on to represent Great Britain at the Paralympics! Wheelchair basket ball in not only for the guys, the GBWBA has created a Junior League and a Women's League - in fact the women's League has grown so much that it now has two divisions.

Article by Michael R Browne for Gowrings Mobility:
Leading the way in wheelchair accessible disabled vehicles. With a range of new and used mobility vehicles.

How to Assess Second-Hand Wheelchair Vehicles for Sale

The costs associated with disability are high, so finding cheaper options to such essentials as wheelchair accessible vehicles is necessary for some. Buying a second-hand converted vehicle is much cheaper than converting your own car or van, or buying a new vehicle specially fitted out for wheelchair accessibility. It must be remembered, however, that every wheelchair confined passenger has specific needs, and all require a maximum level of safety. It is important that all second-hand wheelchair vehicles and cars for sale you find are assessed carefully before a purchase is made.

The range of used wheelchair accessible cars for sale is more limited than the wheelchair accessible cars for sale at specialist conversion companies, and you may not be able to find a used wheelchair vehicle that perfectly suits your needs. It is important to not compromise the specific transport and mobility requirements of your wheelchair confined passenger in favour of cheaper used wheelchair cars. A quick internet search, however, reveals many different sites selling second-hand disability aids, including wheelchair accessible vehicles. You may be able to find the perfect second-hand wheelchair vehicle for sale locally and for a reasonable price.

The first consideration when assessing used wheelchair cars for sale, as with any second-hand products, is to determine the vehicle is in good working order. Overall safety is paramount with any vehicle, but even more so with vehicles carrying disabled passengers. It is therefore of utmost importance the wheelchair accessible car runs well, with no faults, to minimise the risk of accidents on the road. If the wheelchair car for sale is not in perfect working order, the vehicle may still be worth buying if it caters to your particular needs. In all cases you should at least be fully aware of all faults, so they can be restored once the vehicle is bought. If possible you should obtain a written description of the wheelchair vehicle for sale from the seller to protect your legal rights if any faults should arise soon after purchase.

There are two avenues for finding second-hand wheelchair vehicles for sale, through private sellers or commercial suppliers of converted vehicles. Buying a second-hand wheelchair accessible vehicle from commercial retailers is the more expensive option, however vehicles sold this way are more likely to have been serviced, reconditioned and sold in good working order. Mostly, these second-hand vehicles will also come with a short guarantee of three months or so which ensure safety and peace of mind.

At Capital Special Vehicles Melbourne you can find extensive range wheelchair accessible vehicles for sale. Capital Special Vehicles are one of the leading service providers who provide vehicle conversions services in Melbourne.

Ricon Wheelchair Lifts Offer Advantages

Those who are in wheelchairs will find these lifts will make their lives easier. This is true for caregivers as well who need to help their family or patients into and out of their wheelchair accessible van. Ricon wheelchair lifts are one of the most recognized names on the market, and they have many advantages that you will be able to appreciate. These lifts will be able to save you a lot of time and frustration when it comes to getting into and out of the van.

Ricon wheelchair lifts will fit many different types of vehicles, and they are easy to operate. You can find various types of lifts on the market, from the electronic lifts to the hydraulic lifts. When you are choosing the type of lift that you want to have, electric or hydraulic, it is important that you learn about the different advantages of each.

The hydraulic lifts do not need any electricity to operate, so even if your van has no power, you will still be able to operate the lift. Theses lifts generally carry a higher price tag, but they are worth the extra expense to most people. Those who can afford it may want to opt for this type of lift.

The electric wheelchair lifts are friendlier to your wallet, and they work just as easily as the hydraulic lifts. While they run on electricity, you can choose a lift that has batteries. This makes them operable even if you do not have any power in your vehicle.

When you are going to the dealership to inquire about Ricon wheelchair lifts, you should have the salespeople take the time to show you how the different lifts operate. Don't just watch them operate the lifts - do it yourself so you know what to expect from the lift when it is installed on your vehicle. The salespeople should be able to answer any questions that you might have about the lifts before you buy.

Check to see what type of warranty comes with them as well. If something were to go wrong with the lift mechanically that was not your fault, it is important that you are able to get it fixed in a timely manner and without having to spend much, or any, money.

Great wheelchair lifts can make your life much easier, and most people find that they are worth every penny.

IMED Mobility is your premier supplier of Ricon wheelchair lifts and mobility equipment. Visit IMEDMobililty.com to find wheelchair lifts and wheelchair accessible van rentals.

Sheepskin Wheelchair Covers - Do I Need a Sheepskin Wheelchair Cover on My Chair?

Many people are confined to wheelchairs due to a number of ailments. This confinement is challenging to say the least. When you are sitting in a nice cool air conditioned room things may be OK, but when you roll outside into the hot summer sun this becomes a whole new story. During the hot months especially in parts of the country that have high humidity a wheelchair can be really uncomfortable.

Have you ever had to sit outside for just a few minutes and when you get up your whole back is wet with sweat? Just imagine what its like having to sit down all the time. A person that is confined to a wheelchair has no air circulation to their backside. This causes extremely uncomfortable times to say the least. Does it have to be this way? No I think there is a very simple fix that will minimize these uncomfortable times.

Sheepskin seat covers for wheelchairs are not only affordable, but will make the chair feel like a completely different chair. The sheepskin fiber's have a hollow core that can absorbs moisture without becoming damp or clammy. The sheepskin fibers have a harder outer layer that protects against liquid moisture. This liquid moisture is repelled while humidity from heat and sweating is absorbed, and that helps with temperature regulation.

Not only does sheepskin keep outside moisture away from the skin, the wool fibers wicks away perspiration when you sweat. Now this is the amazing thing, normally when you sweat after a while things start to smell badly. With sheepskins ability to absorb moisture combined with the naturally protecting oils that are held within the wool fibers there is no smell. The sheepskin wool fibers have the ability to continuously allow air to flow between these fibers so the fleece never gets wet because it is constantly drying itself.

When you put all of this together you have a material that is super comfortable, cool in the summer, warm in the winter, naturally protects your skin, keeps everything nice and dry and always smells neutral. You can find tailor made covers for any wheelchair for under $150.00. This is a great way to get comfort and protection and not break the bank.

Sheepskin seat covers come in a variety of colors as well as medical grade if someone has sensitive skin. Sheepskin is naturally hypoallergenic because there is no dander. The natural oils in the sheepskin fibers that naturally protects the wool itself,aids in making sheepskin so safe for sensitive skin.

My name is Terry Matthews

I own and operate multiple online businesses. One of my businesses is my favorite because I truly love the product. That product is sheepskin.

At Seat Sheepskin Covers we specialize in many of the finest genuine sheepskin items you will find anywhere. Our sheepskin is a great investment at a fair price. If you find a better advertised deal just let us know and we will match it. We will work hard to keep you the consumer happy.

Come see our sheepskin wheelchair covers as well as other medical equipment covers at

[http://www.seatsheepskincovers.com/wheelchaircovers.html]

Our main site is [http://www.seatsheepskincovers.com/seatcarcovers.html] we carry many sheepskin products, if you don't see what you like just give me a call and I'll get you what you want.

Electric Wheelchair Travel

Wheelchair users have the right to travel just like any other individuals and see the amazing sights all over the world. Wheelchair travel has come a long way in the past twenty years. With the mass market introduction of electric wheelchairs and lightweight wheelchairs, wheelchair users and care-givers have an easier time moving around with wheelchairs. The increased public awareness about traveling for the disabled has prompted public establishments such as shopping malls, airports and cruise terminals to be wheelchair friendly in their infrastructure. Tour packages for the wheelchair users have also picked up momentum recently. These packages ensure the welfare of the wheelchair travelers are taken care of properly. Wheelchair users who are apprehensive about traveling to unknown places will feel assured of a quality experience when going for these packages. The agencies will provide the latest information of the destination and assist in the preparation to the actual sight seeing trip.

On the part of the electric wheelchair users, you are advised to visit your therapist for consultation on your travel plans. You need to have a report of any conditions that may warrant attention certified by the therapist. Please keep a copy of the report and pass another to the travel planner. Upon reaching the hotel,which should be wheelchair friendly, remember to inquire the in-house doctors available. Electric wheelchair users should also bring along their medication that can last the entire trip preferably packed into travel friendly cases. Always keep them by your side.

When you reach the hotel counter, request for city guides as these usually consist of information for disabled travelers. You can also check the city's website online prior to your trip for mental preparation.

Just like any other traveling people, try to pack as light as possible heavy luggage can pose a problem and a hazard for wheelchair travelers. If electric wheelchair users are traveling by plane, you need to tie a name tag to the wheelchair before storage. The name tag should include your contact number,destination and travel agency. Remove loose sections of the electric wheelchairs such as cushions and bags.Lastly, put the brakes on. The idea is to keep the electric wheelchair as compact as possible without things falling off easily. Check for scratches and damages at the destination airport. More importantly for electric wheelchairs, check for possible leakages of the batteries and loose wiring as these may pose a danger later in the trip.

Scheduling your itinerary is also important to ensure a satisfied travel experience. Understanding the extra time it takes for wheelchair users in transportation, it is best to make a provision of 20-30 minutes for every item. There is always time for everything if you plan well. If a tourist site has multiple entries, you should find out where is the entry point for wheelchairs as they have ramps or lifts installed there.

Used electric wheelchairs users should conserve your energy well and distribute them over the duration of the trip. Prevent yourself from over exertion in the initial days. Have back up plans to your itinerary as weather and people can be unpredictable. The hotel should be surrounded by basic amenities such as restaurants and pharmacies. Places which are wheelchair friendly are identified by a internationally known icon on the city map. Electric Wheelchair users do require a lot more attention when traveling and the least one can do is to be well prepared for any unforeseen circumstances. Electric wheelchair users are encouraged to travel and open your eyes to this wonderful world.

Read more at electric wheelchairs

Commercial and Residential Wheelchair Lifts

Wheelchair lifts are an economical and convenient means of transportation up and down the stairs. Commercial wheel chair lifts are best suited for schools, universities, auditoriums, colleges, churches and historic buildings whereas residential wheelchair lifts are meant for your residential spaces.

Commercial Wheelchair Lifts for Any Public Building Architecture

Commercial spaces and public settings are the places where a good number of wheelchair users are likely to come. Hence commercial wheelchair lifts have become very essential accessibility devices in every commercial setting, for the aged/physically challenged individuals to access different levels of these buildings. Commercial wheel chair lifts are available in different models and specifications to suit any building architecture. These devices usually come with a motor driven platform, and also with internal switches for the riders to control the lift on their own.

Lift Models of Different Makes that Blend Perfectly with Your Home Interiors

If you have elderly or disabled family members in your home, residential wheelchair lifts would be a great option to reduce the burden of transporting them up and down the stairs. You can find these lifts in different makes and models to match your home interiors. Your standard household current is sufficient for the electric powered wheel chair lifts to operate. Now both straight and curved wheel chair lifts are available that can blend with straight or curved stairways in your home. Certain models such as Porch Lift PL-RA, Stair-Trac, and ES-125 are some of the popular models widely used in residential settings.

Emergency stop button, sensors, broken belt monitor, safety nut, platform safety pans, final limit switches and key locks are part of standard commercial and residential wheel chair lifts.

Choose Dealers with Long Term Experience for Quality Products and Services

There are many branded companies such as ThyssenKrupp Access, Savaria Concord and Bruno selling popular models of commercial and residential wheelchair lifts. The dealers supplying their products will usually have experienced professionals for installation, repair and maintenance services. To attain the best of these services, settle for dealers with long term experience.

Day Elevator & Lift is a premier provider of tub lifts, stair lifts, elevators and wheelchair lifts for residential and commercial applications throughout the tri-state area, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut.

Benefits of Vertical Wheelchair Lifts

Many of us, even though we are gifted with the ability to do all our normal activities such as walking, running and climbing, love to enjoy more comforts such as lifts, ramps and elevators. But there are many mentally vibrant people facing mobility problems due to their physical handicaps, along with problems of old age. These individuals spend a substantial part of their life in wheelchairs and cannot move about as freely as others. Today ramps and elevators are common in most public buildings; but there still exists the need for supplementary equipment such as vertical wheelchair lifts, to benefit physically challenged individuals.

One of the striking benefits of vertical wheelchair lifts or platform lifts is that these are designed in such a manner that a person in a wheelchair can be elevated or lowered between the floors without leaving the wheelchair. A vertical wheelchair lift is also powered by hydraulics or electricity. The different models of vertical wheelchair lifts are:

o Enclosed model
o Shaft way model
o Stage model
o Opal model

In the Enclosed model, the wheelchair and the boarder can be placed on a platform which is enclosed with walls as the lift moves up and down. The Shaftway model can be used in residential as well as commercial environments and fixed to existing walls like an elevator. The Stage model featured with just a platform can be used for shorter heights or elevations. The Opal model, apart from its open ceiling, is almost similar to the Enclosed model.

Vertical wheelchair lifts or platform lifts can be used in various locations as in residences, and facilitates easy access between floors and porches to those using wheelchairs. In a scholastic environment, the major benefit of vertical wheelchair lifts is that these provide physically challenged individuals to easily negotiate all elevated platforms and lecture halls.

The excellent benefits of vertical wheelchair lifts help one lead a better activity oriented life, enjoying considerable independence. At home or the workplace, a vertical wheelchair lift can bring remarkable changes in the life of the physically challenged people.

Anthony Robbins is working as a design consultant at Day Elevator & Lift. At DAY, we focus on eliminating several accessibility challenges you face at home and in your business premises, with the help of premium products such as wheelchair lifts. We have an extensive range of Inclined and vertical wheelchair lifts.