What is an ambulatory wheelchair user?

Whats the difference between a wheelchair user and an ambulatory wheelchair user?

Wheelchair users are individuals who use wheelchairs for mobility due to a disability. The spectrum is very wide and compasses individuals who may use wheelchairs yet be able to walk short distances or only require a wheelchair during flare ups.

It's important to remember that wheelchair users are made up of a large range of individuals, with different needs and conditions. Being respectful to people that use a wheelchair while also being able to walk.

Wheelchairs are an empowering tool for those who require mobility support, allowing individuals that would struggle to engage with activities the freedom to rest and be supported by suitable equipment.

Characters such as Anya in Netflix's Run Away uses a wheelchair intermittently through out the show because the actress playing her, Ellie Henry, is diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and uses a wheelchair intermittently.

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a rare genetic disorder that made up of different disorders resulting in weakened connective tissues, hypermobility, stretchy skin and fragile tissue.

The most common symptoms are joints that move beyond the normal range (hypermobility), chronic pain, easy bruising, and joint dislocations.

Other issues include fatigue, digestive problems, and blood pressure regulation issues like POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome). Daily life can be affected by chronic fatigue and unpredictable dislocations.

As there is no cure for EDS, treatment focuses on managing symptoms, such as physiotherapy for joint stability, pain management, and avoiding activities that put too much strain on joints. While management focuses on symptom relief, most types do not affect lifespan, except for the rare, life-threatening vascular type.

Mobility aids can help individuals when they are experiencing joint pain and helping to reduce strain on their joints.