06/17/2026
♿ Have you explored power assist for your wheelchair?
If pushing your manual wheelchair is becoming more challenging, power assist technology may help you stay active, independent, and engaged in the activities you enjoy.
Power assist can:
✔️ Reduce shoulder strain and help protect your upper extremities from overuse injuries
✔️ Make it easier to navigate uneven terrain, ramps, inclines, and longer distances
✔️ Conserve energy so you have more stamina for work, school, family, and daily activities
✔️ Improve access to your community, including shopping, appointments, social events, and recreation
✔️ Reduce fatigue throughout the day while maintaining the flexibility of a manual wheelchair
✔️ Increase confidence and independence by decreasing reliance on others for mobility assistance
Pictured here is The Twist from Klaxon which can be mounted in the front or back! Other types of power assist you can explore are:
🔹 SmartDrive MX2+ – A rear-mounted motor that provides propulsion after a push. Ideal for users who can self-propel but need assistance over longer distances, ramps, or throughout a busy day. It maintains the feel of a manual wheelchair while reducing repetitive pushing.
🔹 SMOOV One – Similar to SmartDrive, but controlled with a hand dial rather than wearable controls. Many users find it intuitive and appreciate the ability to easily adjust speed and assistance levels.
🔹 Alber e-motion & Empulse M90 – Power-assist wheels that amplify each push on the handrim. These systems are often beneficial for individuals with shoulder pain, decreased strength, or fatigue because they reduce the force required with every push while preserving a natural propulsion pattern.
🔹 Front-Mounted Attachments (Firefly, Klaxon, Batec) – Attach to the front of the wheelchair and transform it into a powered handcycle-style device. These options excel for outdoor use, uneven terrain, longer distances, and users seeking greater speed and community access.
Interested in learning whether power assist may be right for you? Talk with your therapist or seating and mobility team!