Turning in a wheelchair

You won’t get very far in your wheelchair unless you master how to turn. Whether you use a manual wheelchair or powerchair, learning how to turn smoothly will give you greater control and independence.

This guide covers turning in both manual wheelchairs and powerchairs. 

We’ll describe how to perform stationary turns, turn while moving, and how to safely move between objects.

This is one of a series of guides we’ve created to help you build basic and advanced wheelchair skills.

What you’ll learn:

• How to perform a stationary turn
• Turning while moving
• How to weave between objects
• Using walls or fixed features to help you turn safely

What you need to know about turning a wheelchair

Like all wheelchair skills, turning requires a little practice. Start slowly and build up. You can increase your speed when you feel comfortable.

You’ll soon be able to turn smoothly, change direction quickly, and move your chair with confidence.

The principles of turning are similar for all wheelchairs, but there are a few important differences between manual and powered chairs, which we explore below.

How to turn in a manual wheelchair

Turning a manual chair involves careful coordination of push-rims to control the wheelchair’s direction and speed.

Stationary turns

A stationary turn involves spinning your chair on the spot without moving forward. It’s an everyday skill that involves careful coordination. It takes some time to perfect, but you’ll get it.

Follow the steps below:

1. Hold one push-rim towards the front (around the 3 o’clock position)
2. Hold the other towards the back (around the 9 o’clock position)
3. Pull the forward hand backwards and push the backward hand forwards at the same time
4. Your hands should be level with your hips as the chair turns

You can use this technique to rotate a full circle on the spot. Mastering this enables you to move and pivot in small spaces, like hallways and lifts.

Try to practise slowly until you can complete stationary turns smoothly and in total control. 

Turning while moving

Turning while moving is a simpler skill to manage, but you’ll still need to stay in control to avoid accidents:

• Look in the direction you want to go and plan out your path
• Use lighter pushes on one wheel to turn the chair
• Small adjustments will help you move around corners or weave between

Try to avoid turning sharply at speed as this can destabilise your chair. Over time, you’ll learn about your limits and the limits of your chair.

Using the built environment to help you turn

You’re not always on your own when moving and turning in your wheelchair. You can use walls, barriers, or other environmental factors to help you. 

Here are a few ways the world around you be used to help: 

• Drag turn: Place your hand lightly behind the wheelchair and apply gentle pressure on the wall to turn towards it
• Push-off turn: Push away from the wall using the palm of your hand, keeping your arm out in front. This will turn you away from the wall and help you navigate around corners

Remember to take care when using this method. You’ll need to ensure whatever you’re using to hold is safe and secure. It’s easy to scrape your hands, so be as careful as you can!

How to turn in a powerchair

Powerchairs use a joystick to steer, which makes it easier and gives you more control. Here are some tips to help you:

Stationary turns

1. Switch the power on
2. Select a slow speed setting
3. Put your hand on the joystick
4. Look over your shoulders to check your surroundings (if possible)
5. Gently move the joystick to the right or left to turn in a full circle on the spot
6. Adjust your speed if necessary
7. Come to a stop
8. Switch off the power

It’ll take some time until you’re in complete control, but you’ll get there. Always avoid sudden movements as they could cause you to lose balance.

Turning while moving

Now it’s time to combine turning with forward movement.

Move the joystick gently forward and slightly to one side to steer around objects, obstacles or around other people. Remember, the faster you’re moving, the harder it can be to steer and stay in control.

Try to keep movements small and controlled. Some chairs are more sensitive than others. If your chair turns too sharply, reduce your speed and make smaller joystick adjustments.