To maximize balance in a wheelchair for a patient with bilateral below-knee amputations, the rear wheels should be positioned more:

To maximize balance in a wheelchair for a patient with bilateral below-knee amputations, the rear wheels should be positioned more:

• A. Laterally
• B. Posteriorly
• C. Anteriorly
• D. Inferiorly

Answer: (B)

The situation tests how rear wheel position affects wheelchair stability. Moving the rear wheels farther back (posteriorly) increases the base of support in the sagittal plane and shifts the system’s center of gravity slightly toward the rear. For someone with bilateral below-knee amputations, distal weight is reduced, which can make balance and tipping forward more of a challenge. By placing the rear axle posteriorly, the chair becomes more stable and easier to control, reducing the risk of tipping when propelling or transferring.

The situation tests how rear wheel position affects wheelchair stability. Moving the rear wheels farther back (posteriorly) increases the base of support in the sagittal plane and shifts the system’s center of gravity slightly toward the rear. For someone with bilateral below-knee amputations, distal weight is reduced, which can make balance and tipping forward more of a challenge. By placing the rear axle posteriorly, the chair becomes more stable and easier to control, reducing the risk of tipping when propelling or transferring.