Type and frequency of wheelchair repairs and resulting adverse consequences among veteran wheelchair users.

A high number of repairs and resulting adverse consequences occur for wheelchair users, particularly power wheelchair users, in a sample of Veterans. Interventions to prevent breakdowns and to address repairs and adverse consequences in a time-efficient manner are needed.Implications for rehabilitationIn a sample of Veterans, a high number of repairs and resulting adverse consequences occur for wheelchair users, particularly power wheelchair users.There is an important clinical opportunity to help wheelchair users avoid repairs in the first place and reduce adverse consequences after breakdowns occur by improving wheelchair quality, providing preventative chair maintenance, and repairing breakdowns in a timely and efficient manner.These interventions may prove impactful in reducing the adverse medical, functional, and social consequences of wheelchair breakdowns.