Wheelchair Seat Width
Rough seat width from hip measurement (clinical fitting required).
Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of results from this tool.
Inputs
Results
Est. seat width
45 cm
≈ 5 credit cards
How to Use This Calculator
- Measure the user's hip width while seated — use a flexible tape measure.
- Enter the hip width in centimeters in the 'Hip Width' field.
- Review the recommended seat width, which adds a standard clearance allowance.
- Cross-check the seat depth recommendation using your thigh length measurement.
- Confirm measurements with a certified rehabilitation engineer or occupational therapist.
How the result changes with Hip width (cm)
| Hip width (cm) | Est. seat width |
|---|---|
| 26 | 30 cm |
| 41 | 45 cm |
| 59 | 62.5 cm |
| 74 | 77.5 cm |
What each input means
- Hip width (cm)
- Measure the widest point across your hips while seated. Add clearance for clothing and comfort.
- Desired seat depth (cm)
- Distance from the back of the seat to behind the knee (popliteal fold). Proper depth prevents pressure sores.
What each result means
- Est. seat width
- Estimated seat width rounded up to the nearest standard increment with clearance added.
- Seat depth
- Your entered seat depth for reference.
- Note
- Important reminder about professional fitting.
How this is calculated
Worked example, using the default values
- Identify Input ParametersHip width (cm) = 42, Desired seat depth (cm) = 46 = 2 input(s) provided
- Calculate Est. seat widthEst. seat width = ceil(hip / 2.5) * 2.5 + 2.545 = 45
- Calculate Seat depth46 = 46
- Calculate NoteWork with ATP / clinician for prescription seating = Work with ATP / clinician for prescription seating
Engine last updated . Checked against 2 independently-derived tests — how we verify calculators.
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