Going up and down drop kerbs in your wheelchair

Kerbs are everywhere, from pavements to car parks. Knowing how to approach kerbs and tackle them is an advanced skill that every wheelchair user needs to know. We’re going to unpack the theory and practice of moving up and down drop kerbs.

This guide covers both manual and powered wheelchairs. By the end, you’ll have learned how to approach kerbs correctly, manage your balance, and move safely between different levels.

What you’ll learn:

• How to approach a drop kerb safely
• Going down a kerb with control
• Going up a kerb
• Identifying situations when you may need to ask for help

What you need to know about going up and down drop kerbs in your wheelchair

Drop kerbs are there to make pavements and crossings more accessible. There’s no standard for drop kerbs and they can vary in height and surface.

By learning the right way to go up and down a drop kerb, you’ll reduce the risk of tipping or straining. It’s an advanced skill that’s essential to learn if you plan on moving between surfaces like roads, pavements, or ramps.

This is a practical guide, and that means you’ll need to try the exercises. Over time, you’ll build confidence, which will enable you to travel more freely and safely in public spaces. 

The technique is different if you’re in a manual or powerchair, so we’ve split the guide to reflect this.

Going up and down drop kerbs in a manual wheelchair

It’s vital that you stay in control while going up and down a kerb or you could risk tipping the chair. The aim is to move smoothly and confidently, while always being in total control.

Here’s our step-by-step guide for going up and down kerbs in a manual wheelchair:

Going down a kerb

1. Approach the kerb slowly and straight on, and never at an angle
2. Check the road below is clear and the surface is flat
3. Move your chair close to the edge and put on the brakes
4. If you need or want to, ask someone to stabilise the chair
5. Release the brakes, lean slightly backwards, and roll gently over the edge
6. Don’t force things, instead, allow the rear wheels to follow smoothly down

Don’t rush these steps. Using slow and controlled movements can keep you balanced, stable and, most importantly, safe.

Going up a kerb

1. Check that the surface is stable and not slippery
2. Approach the kerb head-on and not at an angle
3. Lean slightly forward and firmly push the push-rims to lift the front castors onto the kerb (some people call this ‘popping up’)
4. Once the front wheels are up, use a stronger push to roll the rear wheels onto the kerb
5. Keep your movements steady and even to stay balanced

Over time, you’ll be able to judge kerbs by their appearance. While you’re learning, don’t be afraid to ask for assistance when tackling a steep kerb. It’s better than falling or tipping. 

Going up and down drop kerbs in a powerchair

The principles for tackling kerbs are the same in a powerchair as a manual one, but there are some practical differences. Here’s our step-by-step guide for going up and down kerbs in a powerchair:

Going down a kerb

1. Approach the kerb straight on and slowly
2. Switch the chair to a low speed setting
3. Check that the area below is clear of people and obstacles
4. Keep your body upright and move the joystick gently forward until both front wheels roll over the edge
5. Focus on ensuring a slow, steady descent 
6. Let the rear wheels follow naturally over the edge

Speed control is key when tackling kerbs. The slower and more controlled you are, the safer you’ll be.

Going up a kerb

1. Approach the kerb slowly, square to the edge
2. Use the joystick to move gently forward
3. Keep your weight slightly forward and maintain a straight line
4. Let the front wheels climb first (most powerchairs will lift them automatically)
5. Continue slowly until the rear wheels follow onto the kerb

You’ll need to use your judgement when tackling kerbs. Try to assess the kerb height before attempting to climb it. If it looks too high, then find an alternative route or ask someone for help if you need to.

Staying safe when going up or down kerbs

Tackling kerbs takes time, patience and planning. The guide above provides clear steps, but you’ll need to learn how to put them into practice. Here are some fundamental principles for both manual wheelchairs and powerchairs:

• Always face the kerb straight on and never approach at an angle
• Keep your speed low and movements steady
• Avoid kerbs with broken or uneven edges, as these are dangerous
• Ask for help if the kerb looks too steep or unsafe