How to Push a Wheelchair Down a Curb Safely

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are a leading cause of injury among people with disabilities, highlighting the importance of proper technique when navigating obstacles. Understanding how to push a wheelchair down a curb is a fundamental skill for any caregiver to ensure safety and prevent injury for both themselves and the person in the chair.

Quick Summary

This article provides a step-by-step guide for caregivers on safely and effectively descending a curb while assisting someone in a wheelchair, emphasizing crucial safety procedures and techniques.

Key Points

• Use the backwards method for safety: The caregiver-assisted backwards approach is the most controlled and secure way to descend a curb.

• Communicate clearly with the user: Inform the person in the wheelchair of every step to build trust and ensure their safety.

• Raise the footrests: Before descending, raise or swing away the footplates to prevent them from catching on the curb's edge.

• Assume a stable stance: Use a wide, staggered stance to brace yourself and leverage your body weight for controlled movement.

• Utilize the anti-tip bar: Step on the tipping lever to assist in lifting the front wheels over the curb for a smoother descent.

• Prioritize practice in a safe area: Practice the technique in a controlled environment to build confidence and muscle memory before navigating real-world scenarios.

Essential Safety Preparations Before Descending a Curb

Before you even approach the curb, a few crucial steps are needed to ensure maximum safety. Proper preparation reduces the risk of falls and provides a smooth, controlled descent. Always communicate with the wheelchair user throughout the entire process so they know what to expect.

Communicating and Securing the Wheelchair

1. Communicate Clearly: Inform the person in the wheelchair exactly what you are about to do. A simple phrase like, "We're going to go down the curb now, I'll let you know when to lean forward," can help them brace themselves and feel more secure.
2. Ensure Brakes are Off: Double-check that the wheelchair brakes are completely disengaged. An engaged brake on one or both wheels will cause a jerky, uncontrolled stop that could lead to an accident.
3. Check Footrests: The footrests must be raised or swung away before a descent. If the footplates strike the curb's edge, they could cause the chair to stop abruptly and potentially tip forward.

The Backwards Approach: A Step-by-Step Guide

For caregivers, the safest and most controlled method for descending a curb is the backwards approach. This technique gives you a better view of the curb and allows you to use your body's strength to control the descent.

The Descent Technique

1. Position the Chair: Turn the wheelchair around so the large rear wheels are facing the curb's edge. Roll backward slowly until the rear wheels are right at the edge of the curb.
2. Take a Stable Stance: Position yourself with a wide stance, one foot on the ground below the curb and one foot on the ground level with the wheelchair. This provides a stable base of support.
3. Control the Descent: While holding the push handles firmly, slowly roll the back wheels down the curb's edge. Use your body weight and legs to provide controlled resistance, guiding the chair down gradually. Avoid using just your arm strength, which can be unstable and cause strain.
4. Clear the Front Wheels: Once the back wheels are on the lower level, continue to roll the chair backward until the smaller front wheels are no longer touching the curb. You may need to use the anti-tip bar to momentarily lift the front wheels for a smoother transition.
5. Lower the Front Wheels: Slowly and gently lower the front wheels to the ground. Maintain a wide stance and use your legs to absorb the final movement.

The Forward Approach for Self-Propelled Users

For experienced, independent wheelchair users, a forward-facing method using a "wheelie" technique is common. This requires significant upper body strength and skill and is not recommended for caregivers assisting someone else.

Comparison Table: Backwards vs. Forward Curb Descent

Feature	Backwards Approach (Caregiver)	Forward Approach (Independent User)
Safety Level	High; offers maximum control for caregivers.	Moderate to High; requires significant skill to execute safely.
Best For	Caregivers assisting a person in a wheelchair.	Experienced, independent wheelchair users with strong upper bodies.
Control	Provides a slow, controlled descent using body mechanics.	Uses momentum and timing, can be risky if not executed perfectly.
Visibility	Excellent visibility of the curb and rear wheels.	Eyes are focused forward, but curb navigation requires a strong understanding of timing.
Risk of Tipping	Low, when proper technique is used.	Higher risk if momentum is misjudged or the front wheels catch.
Effort Required	Primarily uses legs and body weight, minimizing arm strain.	Relies heavily on upper body strength and timing for the "wheelie."

Advanced Techniques and Important Considerations

Once you are comfortable with the basic backwards method, there are a few additional tips that can help improve your skills and efficiency.

• The Anti-Tip Bar: Many wheelchairs have an anti-tip bar or tipping lever (a small bar near the bottom of the back wheels). You can step on this to easily lift the front wheels off the ground, which is useful when navigating transitions. It can provide added stability and control during the final lowering of the front casters.
• Avoid Sudden Movements: A slow, deliberate movement is always better than a fast, jerky one. Sudden changes in speed or direction can unbalance the chair and cause fear or discomfort for the user.
• Steep Curbs: For very steep curbs, consider finding an alternative route like a curb ramp or an accessible entrance. If no other option exists, a two-person assist may be necessary, and proper training is essential to coordinate the effort safely. For tips on navigating steeper curbs, consider referencing educational resources from organizations like the Spinal Cord Injury Empowerment Project.

Conclusion

Mastering how to push a wheelchair down a curb is a critical skill for any caregiver, directly impacting the safety and confidence of both the caregiver and the person they assist. The backwards method, as outlined, is the safest and most reliable technique for a controlled descent. By prioritizing communication, securing the equipment, and using proper body mechanics, caregivers can navigate curbs with confidence, ensuring a safe and smooth experience. Always remember to practice in a controlled environment before attempting this in a real-world scenario. Regular practice builds muscle memory and helps ensure that these actions become second nature, further increasing safety and comfort for everyone involved.

Keypoints

• Always use the backwards method: This provides caregivers with the most control and leverage for a safe and stable descent down a curb.
• Clear communication is vital: Verbally guide the wheelchair user through the process to prevent surprises and help them feel secure.
• Raise or clear the footrests: Before descending, lift the footplates to prevent them from catching on the curb and causing a tip-over.
• Use proper body mechanics: Utilize a wide, stable stance and rely on your legs and body weight, not your back, to control the chair's movement.
• Practice with caution: Master the technique in a safe, controlled environment before attempting it in public, and always prioritize the user's safety and comfort.

Faqs

Question: Is it ever safe to go down a curb forward when assisting someone? Answer: No, for caregivers, the forward method is not recommended. It significantly increases the risk of tipping the chair and losing control, as you cannot properly brace against the descent. The backwards method is far safer and more controlled.

Question: What should I do if the person in the wheelchair is anxious about going down a curb? Answer: Take it slow and communicate every step. Start by practicing on a very low curb or even a small ledge in a safe area. Reassure them that you are in full control and demonstrate the technique so they can see how you are bracing yourself.

Question: How can I prevent the wheelchair from veering off course during the descent? Answer: To maintain a straight path, ensure you approach the curb perpendicularly, and use your legs to control the movement rather than twisting your torso. Keep a firm, steady grip on both push handles.

Question: What if the curb is too high for the backwards technique? Answer: For very high or steep curbs, it is best to find a designated curb cut or ramp. If no other option is available, a two-person lift or seeking professional assistance may be necessary.

Question: Can I use a regular ramp for a curb if one isn't available? Answer: Portable ramps are an excellent, safer alternative for navigating curbs. They remove the tipping risk and provide a smooth surface. However, always ensure the ramp is securely placed and rated for the combined weight of the user and chair.

Question: What is the purpose of the anti-tip bar when descending? Answer: The anti-tip bar, or tipping lever, allows you to momentarily lift the front caster wheels off the ground. This is useful for smoothly clearing the front wheels from the curb's edge after the rear wheels have already descended.

Question: How much force is needed to control the descent? Answer: The amount of force required depends on the weight of the person and chair. Use your legs and body weight to act as a counter-balance and control the descent gradually, rather than relying on upper body strength alone.

Citations

[ { "title": "Manual Wheelchair Skills: Navigating Curbs Dependently", "url": "http://www.neuropt.org/docs/default-source/sci-sig/fact-sheets/manual-wheelchair-skills--navigating-curbs-dependently.pdf?sfvrsn=34875343_2" }, { "title": "Wheelchair assist Down steps (1096) - Children's Wisconsin", "url": "https://childrenswi.org/publications/teaching-sheet/pt-ot/1096-wheelchair-assist-down-steps" }, { "title": "Successfully Navigating Curbs In Manual Wheelchair", "url": "https://unitedspinal.org/successfully-navigating-curbs-manual-wheelchair/" }, { "title": "How to push a person in a wheelchair", "url": "https://www.svhs.org.au/ArticleDocuments/4044/How%20to%20push%20a%20person%20in%20a%20wheelchair.pdf.aspx?embed=y" }, { "title": "Curbs and Steps: SCI Empowerment Project Wheelchair Skills", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPVXkbZoe1k" } ] }

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the safest way for a caregiver to push a wheelchair down a curb?

The safest method is the backwards approach. This allows the caregiver to use their legs and body weight to control the descent gradually, providing maximum stability and safety.

What should I do if the footplates get stuck on the curb?

If the footplates catch on the curb, the chair may stop abruptly or tip. To prevent this, always raise or remove the footrests before a descent. If it happens, stop immediately, reassess your position, and gently use the anti-tip bar to lift the front wheels clear.

Can I use the anti-tip bar to push the wheelchair down the curb?

No, the anti-tip bar is not for pushing down the curb. It is a lever used to help tip the chair backward and lift the front wheels. The primary control for the descent should come from your grip on the push handles and your body's leverage.

What if I lose my balance while descending a curb?

If you feel unsteady, stop the movement immediately. Maintain a firm grip on the push handles and use your wide, stable stance to re-balance. The controlled, slow nature of the backwards approach minimizes the risk of losing balance.

How do I know when the front wheels have cleared the curb?

You can visually confirm that the front wheels are no longer touching the curb by looking down. Alternatively, you will feel the chair's weight shift as the front wheels clear the edge, at which point you can gently lower them to the ground.

What kind of curbs are safe to navigate with a wheelchair?

Most standard-height curbs can be navigated safely with the correct technique. However, it is always safer to use a curb cut or ramp if available. Very steep or uneven curbs should be avoided if possible.

Should I be pulling or pushing the wheelchair while going down the curb?

When going down a curb using the backwards method, you are effectively controlling the chair's descent by resisting its forward momentum. You are controlling the push handles, but your legs and body are controlling the speed and movement.