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What is the average height for a wheelchair backrest?

  1. 16 to 16.5 inches

  2. 18 to 18.5 inches

  3. 20 to 20.5 inches

  4. 22 to 22.5 inches

The correct answer is: 16 to 16.5 inches

The average height for a wheelchair backrest typically falls within the range of 16 to 16.5 inches. This height is designed to provide adequate support to individuals, allowing them to maintain a comfortable and functional upright posture while seated in the wheelchair. The backrest should support the natural curve of the spine, which helps in reducing fatigue during prolonged seating and improving overall stability and mobility. While taller backrest options are available, they are generally used for specific needs based on the individual’s height, physical condition, or level of disability. Therefore, the usual range for backrest height, particularly for standard wheelchairs, aligns closely with the 16 to 16.5 inches measurement, making it the most common reference for average wheelchair design.