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wheelchair (hwēlīchār)   a means of locomotion for non-ambulatory individuals, consisting of a seat on a platform with wheels, which provides comfortable, safe sitting, and a steering mechanism. The disabled person should be evaluated by a physiatrist, physical therapist, or occupational therapist with the assistance of an equipment specialist in order to choose the right type of wheelchair. Different types have been designed for patients with quadriplegia, hemiplegia, paraplegia, and amputations; there are also specialized wheelchairs designed for sports, such as basketball, tennis, long distance running, and sprints.




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