Sometimes you may have seen an elderly person or someone with a leg injury using a cane. Maybe you too have been told by your doctor to use a cane after surgery or when you were paralyzed. This is a device that helps maintain stability and balance in our body while walking. But do you know how to use it properly? If used incorrectly, other problems can arise. So today, let's talk about how to use a cane correctly.
Why do we need a stick?
There are many reasons why you might want to use a cane. For example, if you have been injured, have had surgery, or have been disabled due to an illness, you may want to use a cane as a temporary walking aid. Also, some people may feel a little out of balance when walking as they get older. In such cases, using a cane on a permanent basis can provide great protection.
It's best to ask your doctor if you need a cane, and if so, what kind. He or she will assess your condition and recommend what is best for you.
What kind of stick is right for you?
There are several types of walking sticks. Let's look at the main types. Knowing these will make it easier to choose the one that suits you.
| Stick type | Description and matching occasions |
|---|---|
| Single-point cane | This is the standard cane we usually see. It has a curved handle on top and a single point on the bottom. This is good for people with conditions like arthritis or back pain. However, if you have serious balance problems, you may want something sturdier. |
| Multi-point canes | This has three (Tripod) or four (Quad) legs. This gives it more contact with the ground, more stability, and more balance. But it's a little harder to move around as easily as the one with one corner. These are more suitable for those who need to carry more weight and walk. |
Other features
Some sticks also have additional features. For example:
- Ergonomic handles that are comfortable and reduce hand pain.
- A walking stick that can be folded and turned into a chair.
- They can be folded, crushed, and carried in a bag.
- Use them with LED lights at night.
Let's see if the stick is right for you?
Once you've chosen the right walking stick for you, it's important to adjust it to your height. Using a walking stick that is the wrong height can cause back and shoulder pain.
How do you get the height right?
1. First, put on your shoes and stand as straight as possible. Relax your shoulders and let your arms hang freely down at your sides.
2. Now hold the stick parallel to your body. The handle of the stick should be perpendicular to the line at the base of your wrist (wrist crease).
3. Ask someone to help you take this measurement accurately.
4. Now hold the handle of the stick. Your elbow should be slightly bent (about 20 degrees). It should not be fully extended or too bent.
Choosing the Handle That Suits You
Walking sticks also come in different types of handles. If you have joint pain (such as arthritis), you may want to choose a handle that is especially comfortable.
| Handle type | Specialty |
|---|---|
| Crook handle ("J" shape) | This is the traditional curved handle. It's fine if you don't use it often, but it's not very comfortable for someone who uses it every day. |
| Offset handle | The handle is directly above the shaft of the stick, allowing you to put more of your body weight on the stick. |
| Orthopedic grip handle | These are grips that are shaped to fit the shape of your hand. They reduce pressure on your hand, fingers, and wrist. They are made of foam or gel, so they are very comfortable. |
Okay, now let's see how to use this exactly.
You now have the right height and fit for you. The most important thing now is to learn the correct way to use it.
Which hand should you hold the stick with?
This is where many people make a mistake. Always remember, you should hold the stick with your good, strong hand.
Simply put, you should hold the cane with the hand opposite your weak or disabled leg. Imagine your right leg is weak. Then you should hold the cane with your left hand.
This way, when you put your weak leg forward, the cane provides good support for it.
The correct way to walk
1. First, put your weak leg and the cane (in your opposite hand) forward at the same time . This will not be a big surprise to you, as we usually walk when we put one leg forward and the opposite hand goes forward.
2. As soon as the weak leg and the cane touch the ground, apply as much weight as you need to the cane . This will reduce the pressure on the weak leg.
3. Now bring your strong leg forward and keep the other leg close.
4. Start again from the first step. Always look ahead, walk straight . Don't walk with your feet on the ground.
When going up and down stairs
There is a simple rule for using a cane on stairs.
"Up with the good, down with the bad."
- When climbing stairs: Place your strong (good) leg on the top step first. Then place your cane and weak leg on the step.
- When going down stairs: First place your cane on the bottom step. Then place your weak (bad) leg on that step. Finally, bring your strong leg down.
If possible, hold onto the railing of the stairs. It's safer to hold the cane on one side and the railing on the other.
Be sure to follow these safety tips when using a cane.
- Check the rubber sole: If the rubber tip at the bottom of the cane is worn, it is more likely to slip. If it is worn, replace it with a new one. Ask your doctor or physiotherapist about this.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Be careful of things like rugs, wires, and water lying on the floor. Be extra careful on wet, polished floors.
- Do not use a cane to sit or stand up: When getting up from a chair or sitting, do not put weight on the cane. It is not stable at that time and can slip and fall. Instead, hold on to the chair with both hands and stand up.
- Wear shoes that fit well: Wear shoes that have good grip, are non-slip, and have closed heels. If your shoes have laces, tie them tightly so they don't come loose.
Take-Home Message
- Before using a cane, be sure to ask your doctor if you need one and what type is appropriate.
- You should always hold the stick with your strong, healthy hand .
- Make the stick exactly to your height. The correct measurement is one where your elbows are just slightly bent.
- When going up the stairs, go ahead with your "good leg" , and when going down, go ahead with your "weak leg" .
- Always check the rubber sole on the bottom of the stick. If it is worn, replace it with a new one.
- If used correctly, a cane is a good friend that increases your freedom and safety.
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