How to Choose and Use a Cane

When it comes to choosing a cane for walking and support, just any old cane won’t do. Canes come in many shapes and sizes today, and choosing the right fit is very important for your comfort and safety. Here’s what you should know.

Types of Canes
Not surprisingly, the most widely used assistive device in the U.S. is the cane, used by nearly 5 million people. The kind of cane you get should be determined by the amount of support you need and the style of grip you prefers. Here are the basic types of canes you’ll have to choose from:

• Crook or “C” cane: Shaped like a candy cane with the curved handle, this is the most common and basic type of cane and the least expensive, starting as low as $10.
• Ergonomic-handle canes: These types of canes have bigger, ergonomic shaped handles (there are lots of styles to choose from) which provides a more comfortable and secure grip than a crook cane. Usually made of lightweight aluminum or wood, most of the aluminum models are adjustable in height and some even fold up which is convenient for travel. Prices typically range between $20 and $80.
• Offset-handle cane: This style has a swan neck curve in the upper part of the shaft that puts the user’s weight directly over the cane tip, making it ideal for people who need extra stability. Starting at around $25, offset-handle canes are typically aluminum, adjustable and come with a flat, soft grip handle that’s easy on the hands.
• Knob cane: Also known as brass handle or parrot head canes this style is best suited for people who need a cane only for balance or mild weight bearing.
• Quad cane: This cane works best for people who need maximum weight bearing and support. As the name implies, a quad cane comes with four separate tips at the base and usually have an offset flat handle, and cost $30 and up.

Make it Fit
Many canes are adjustable, but some are not. To make sure your cane is the right fit; stand up with your arms hanging straight down at his side. The top of the cane should line up with the crease in your wrist. And, with the cane in your hand, your elbow should bend at a comfortable 20 degree angle.

If his cane is too long, it won’t provide the support you needs. Too short, and you’ll have to lean or bend over to use it which is uncomfortable and may even cause you to fall.

Check the Tip
The rubber tip on the end of your cane grips the floor and helps provide traction. Make sure the tip is supple and the tread is in good shape. If the tip looks worn, buy a replacement tip at a pharmacy or medical supply store.

How to Use
When using a cane, it should always be held in the hand opposite of the leg that needs support. For example, if your foot, knee or hip pain is on his right side, you should use the cane in your left hand. The cane should then move forward as you step forward with the bad leg.

If you have to go up stairs, you should lead with the good leg. And when you goes down stairs, the cane and bad leg should go first. To help, the Mayo Clinic offers a slide show on their Web site that will show you how to choose and use a cane. It’s also a smart idea to work with your doctor or physical therapist.

Where to Buy
You can find canes at drugstores, discount retailers, home medical supply stores and online at sites like canemart.com and fashionablecanes.com. And if money is a concern, most insurers, including Medicare, help cover the cost of a new cane with a written prescription from a physician.