For C6-C7 Tetraplegia, Manual Wheelchair Uses Which Handrim Type?

• A. Friction Surface Handrims
• B. Projections
• C. Standard Handrims
• D. No Handrim

Answer: (A)

The key idea is choosing a handrim that compensates for limited grip strength seen with C6-C7 tetraplegia. In this level of injury, wrist extension and some arm control may be intact, but fine finger strength and pinch are often weak. Friction surface handrims provide more contact area and a textured, rubbery surface that increases friction between the hand and rim. That additional grip lets the user push the rim more securely without needing strong finger flexion or a precise pinch, making manual propulsion more efficient and less tiring.

Projections, while helpful for some with grip issues, require the fingers to engage and lock onto the raised surfaces, which can be challenging if finger strength is limited. Standard handrims assume a decent grasp, which isn’t reliably present here. No handrim isn’t practical for manual propulsion, as some surface contact is still needed to push the wheelchair.

So, friction surface handrims best fit the functional profile of someone with C6-C7 tetraplegia, enhancing grip and control during propulsion.