The evolution of the wheelchair

For many people living with reduced mobility, wheelchairs provide an invaluable means of independence and freedom. They are estimated to be used by over 1.2 million people in the UK alone – some full-time and others part-time. These incredible mobility aids come in a wide range of models and variations, from manual to electric. 

Modern wheelchairs have come a remarkably long way since their early predecessors. In this guide, we'll explore the fascinating evolution of the wheelchair and how modern innovations continue to enhance accessibility. 

When were wheelchairs invented?

Nobody knows when the first ever wheelchair was invented – mainly because it’s hard to define what counts as a wheelchair. Some of the earliest recorded images of wheelchair-like devices date back to ancient China, as early as 525 AD. Before this, inscriptions suggest that people with mobility issues were mainly transported using wheelbarrows.

In Europe, wheelchairs were largely unknown until 1595, when a wheelchair was invented for King Philip II of Spain. It had elaborate upholstery and four tiny wheels, which meant it required someone else to push it. 

The first self-propelled wheelchair was developed in 1655 by Stephan Farffler, a German watchmaker. However, it bore little resemblance to the advanced mobility aids we have today. It had a low seat, three large wheels, and was operated by hand cranks. In a way, it looked more similar to a modern handcycle than what we would now call a wheelchair. 

The 18th-century Bath chair

In the mid-18th century, a man named James Heath invented another of the modern wheelchair’s predecessors: the Bath chair. A type of carriage, the Bath chair had three wheels – the two larger at the back – and a folding hood for shelter. Some Bath chairs had to be pulled by a horse or donkey, whereas others could be pushed from behind. Some had controls allowing the rider to steer. 

The popularity of Bath chairs led to wheeled chairs becoming more and more popular. The technology soon spread to other towns and cities – not just in the UK, but abroad too.

The first folding wheelchairs

The 20th century brought many major advancements that further transformed accessibility. In the early 1930s, mechanical engineers Jennings and Everest invented the first of what could be recognised as a modern wheelchair. 

Constructed from steel, it was relatively lightweight and portable, with two wheels, two casters and footrests. It was even foldable, thanks to a revolutionary idea called the X-frame or X-brace – a technology which is still in use today.

Jennings and Everest’s design was enormously successful, and went on to become the first ever mass-manufactured wheelchair. By the 1950s, their wheelchairs were used throughout the US and UK in settings such as hospitals and care homes. As well as handles, they had metal wheel rims allowing the person using the wheelchair to push themselves.

Modern manual wheelchairs

Today’s manual wheelchairs still closely resemble Jennings and Everest’s original design. However, they are now available with many modern improvements, including:

• Ergonomic soft-grip handles
• Padded seats, backrests and headrests for added comfort
• Adjustable or detachable armrests, legrests and footrests
• Lightweight aluminium and titanium frames 
• Robust wheels with thick tyres for uneven outdoor terrains

Modern wheelchairs also come in a variety of colour options, plus larger seat sizes for those who need them. One recent development is the tilt-in-space wheelchair, which allows the seat to recline for comfort. This helps those with mobility restrictions and high support needs find the perfect position for eating, resting or relieving pressure.

When were electric wheelchairs invented?

The first ever electric wheelchair was invented in London in 1916. However, this early experimental model was never put into production. It was in the mid-1950s when electric wheelchairs first went into mass production, thanks to a Canadian inventor called George Klein. 

Klein’s electric wheelchairs were originally developed to help survivors of the Second World War. They were a success, and within a few years, they were available on the mass market.  The earliest models looked very similar to manual wheelchairs, except with an electric motor. Klein went on to develop much of the electric wheelchair technology we are now familiar with, including joystick controls.

Modern electric and power wheelchairs

Technology has moved on in leaps and bounds following Klein’s original design. Electric wheelchairs are now made with many innovative features, such as folding designs, higher-capacity batteries and controls to adjust the chair’s speed, height and direction. 

Power chairs are a particularly advanced version of the electric wheelchair. Designed to handle various indoor and outdoor environments, they are built with sturdy wheels, tight turning circles and comfortable padded seating. The backrests and headrests can be adjusted, with power-standing wheelchairs even able to be used in an upright position. Some even feature cutting-edge technologies such as Bluetooth connectivity.

Visit Complete Care Shop today to discover a wide range of manual wheelchairs, electric wheelchairs and power chairs. If you need help choosing the right wheelchair for your needs, contact us for personalised product recommendations.