Greetings from Dr. Shawn
Greetings! I’m Dr. Shawn, your PT guy, and my mission is to help you move better and stay independent so you can fully enjoy your life. Today, we’re tackling a common real-world challenge: wheelchair curb safety — how to help someone in a wheelchair get up and down a curb safely. Let’s get started.
The Wrong Way (and Why It’s Risky)
Picture this: you’re pushing your loved one up to a curb, you try to roll them straight forward, and suddenly—tilt, jerk, maybe even a “Sorry, Lauren!” moment.
That’s exactly what we don’t want. Curbs can be tricky and dangerous if done incorrectly. The goal here is smooth, controlled movement with zero chance of tipping or falling.
How to Safely Go Down a Curb in a Wheelchair
We're assuming someone is helping you out, so these wheelchair curb safety tips are written for the helper, not the participant (in the wheelchair).
- Unlock the brakes. You’ll need free movement.
- Back the wheelchair toward the curb. Never roll straight forward down.
- Brace yourself. Keep one leg back for stability.
- Lower the back wheels first. Tilt gently so the large wheels touch down first.
- Ease the front wheels down. Controlled and steady.
And just like that—you’ve conquered the curb without any drama.
How to Safely Go Up a Curb in a Wheelchair
- Position your feet on the wheelchair’s back bar. This gives you leverage.
- Tip the wheelchair slightly back. Just enough to lift the small front wheels.
- Place the front wheels on the curb. Controlled lift, no rushing.
- Walk the big back wheels up. Push forward steadily until all four wheels are on top.
Smooth, strong, and safe. You and your passenger are now curb conquerors. If you want your "passenger" to know how to conquer the curb once they've advanced to a walker, please check this post out.
Finally a smooth ride!
If you want more fall prevention tips, watch my free 3 Secrets to a Fall Proof Life webinar for more information to help you move better and stay independent.