6 Things to Consider When Choosing a Walking Cane

36% of Americans with disabilities use a walking cane, according to the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics. These assistive medical devices reduce the risk of falls, help people maintain their balance, and promote independence after injuries, illnesses, and surgeries but if you’ve never used a cane before you probably have questions about choosing one.

To assist you in the process, we reached out to several experts –– Ken Probst, a kinesiotherapist with more than 20 years of experience and the founder of the Long Healthy Life Blog, and Tanner Smith, PT, DPT, a physical therapist and the clinical director at Spine & Sport Physical Therapy in Orange, California.

Keep reading to learn more about the things to consider when choosing a walking cane.

What things should I consider when choosing a walking cane?

If you’re in the market for a walking cane, there are several factors to consider, including:

1) The amount of support that you need

“The most important factor when choosing a cane is the amount of stability you need,” Smith said. “There are two categories to consider when making this decision and those are a wide or narrow base of support. A wider base of support provides more stability. For example, a cane with four contact points on the ground. Whereas a smaller, single-point cane provides less support.”

2) The weight of the cane

Most walking canes are made of aluminum or wood. Aluminum is lightweight and durable, while wood is much heavier. 

“If you’re frail and need more support, you may be better off with a metal quad cane, which is lighter and provides added stability,” Smith said. “As a result, it’s always best to consult with a physical therapist or your primary care provider to determine the best type of cane for you.”

3) The shape of the cane’s handle

“The two most commonly prescribed walking canes have ‘tourist’ or ‘offset’ handles,” Probst said. “The ‘tourist’ handle looks like a candy cane, and the ‘offset’ handle looks like a question mark. Regardless of their appearance, offset handles are considered more ergonomic and designed for efficiency.”

Choosing a cane with a comfortable handle is crucial. The right handle takes the pressure off your joints, reduces inflammation, and makes it easier to move around.

4) The size and shape of the cane’s base

Some walking canes have a single rubber tip, while others feature a base with four points (quad canes). Choosing a base often comes down to personal preference. Though quad canes do provide some additional support, they can be hard to use, especially on stairs. 

5) The height of the cane

Most walking canes are adjustable, but there are exceptions Therefore, it’s important to make sure your cane is tall enough to meet your needs. 

If you want to find a cane that fits perfectly for yourself (or someone else) Smith recommends following these simple steps: Step one. “First, stand with your arm relaxed to the side.” Step two. “Position the cane right below your arm with the base just outside of your foot. The top of the cane’s handle should line up with the crease of your wrist. This will create the desired 30 degrees of elbow flexion when gripping it.”

If the top of your walking cane is significantly higher or lower than the crease in your wrist, then it’s too tall or too short. An adjustable aluminum cane may make it easier to find the perfect fit.

6) What you plan on using the cane for

Are you in good health and relatively independent; or are you recovering from a major medical event, like a stroke? If you have arthritis (inflamed joints), a walking cane may help you navigate your home, but if you have a weak grip or poor balance another mobility device might be better.

“A physical therapist or physician can determine if a walking cane is appropriate for you, or if other equipment is needed, such as crutches or a walker,” Probst said.

Where can I buy a walking cane?

Carewell was founded with the mission of providing high-quality, vetted products to family caregivers and their loved ones. Our mobility and transportation collection features a wide range of walking canes, quad canes, walkers, and rollators. 

If you still have questions after taking a look, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our friendly Care Specialists speak English and Spanish and are here to help. Call (855) 855-1666 during normal business hours or send an email to support@carewell.com

Do More, See More, More More…With a Walking Cane

Investing in a walking cane can be life-changing if you have poor balance, joint pain, or other health problems that affect your mobility. Even so, they take some getting used to.

“One of the best ways to get better at using a cane is to walk with it as much as possible,” Probst said. “Your physical therapist can also prescribe exercises, such as strengthening and balance to improve walking with a cane.”

Smith concurs, adding that “canes can be a great way to gain more stability on stairs, but it may take some practice with your  physical therapist to master the sequencing, so you don’t have a fall or accident.”