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Jul 20, 2023 · Discover the six common mistakes people make when using a walking cane and learn how to avoid them. This guide by Chipperfield Mobile Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy helps ensure safe, effective cane use. Book a consultation today for personalized advice and training.
- Overview
- Estimating Your Cane Length
- Being More Precise
- Considering Your Options
A walking cane can be either a temporary or permanent solution. You may need a cane for a short period of time following an injury or accident, or it may be your constant companion if you suffer from a chronic debilitating disease. Either way, determining the correct height of your walking cane is crucial because it leads to appropriate balance and...
If you don't have a tape measure and you're ordering a cane online, you can estimate the size you might need by using your height as a general guide. A person between 76 and 79 inches tall should order a 38-inch cane, whereas those between 72 and 75 inches tall may find that a 37-inch cane suits them better.
The length of the cane you order should drop one inch for every three inches that you are under the suggested height ranges. For example, a person standing 64 to 67 inches tall should buy a 35-inch cane.
Many canes are height adjustable, but some are not (particularly those carved from wood).
Order a 36-inch cane if you're of average height.
Because many people (particularly men) fall within the height range of 68–71 inches (170–180 cm), most canes are manufactured or adjusted to 36 inches (91.4 cm) in length.
As a default, some cane manufacturers send 36-inch canes to online customers automatically unless they specify a different length.
The most precise way to determine the correct cane length for you is by measuring the distance between your hand and the ground while you wear shoes. With your arm hanging straight down at your side, the top of your cane should line up with the crease in your wrist.
In other words, the number of inches between your wrist and the floor is the length that your cane should be.
With the cane in hand, your elbow should bend at a comfortable angle — about 15 degrees or so.
Bending your elbow a little more is okay if you're primarily using the cane for balance instead of weight support.
Measure differently if you're hunched over.
You should consider measuring yourself differently if you have a condition that does not allow you to stand up straight. In this case, you'll likely need a shorter cane than that normally dictated by your height. Thus, measure the distance between the floor and wherever your wrist is as you walk with shoes on. Get a friend to help if need be.
Although measuring the distance from your wrist to the floor is the "gold standard" of determining cane length, you may prefer a slightly different height based on many physiological factors, such as the flexibility or strength in your hands, wrists, elbows or shoulders. For example, if you can't bend your elbow very much, you might need a cane that's a little shorter.
Try a few different lengths of canes while at the medical supply store or your physician's or physiotherapist's office before determining the perfect size for your particular condition.
Choose a walking cane based on function as well as personal preference.
Consider what your cane is for.
- Jared Wilder
- You Have Abnormal Gait. If you have a limp or drag one of your feet, you need to consider getting a cane right away. When you develop an abnormal walking gait, it’s a sign that your body is trying to respond to an injury or problem area in your legs or spine.
- You Have Trouble Balancing. Canes are ideal for people with balance issues. No matter where those issues come from, whether it be a fall or injury, a medical condition, or a lack of muscular strength, a good cane will be there to keep you upright.
- You Have Had a Stroke or Mini-Stroke. Strokes and mini-strokes cause numbness and weakness in your limbs, leading to poor balance and an increased risk of falls.
- You Have an Overreliance on One Foot. Next time you’re standing still for more than a few minutes, pay attention to the way that you stand. Are you heavily relying on one foot to avoid pain in one of your joints?
May 26, 2023 · To make sure your cane fits you properly: Check your elbow bend. With the cane in your hand, your elbow should bend at a comfortable angle, about 15 to 20 degrees. You might bend your elbow slightly more if you're using the cane mainly for balance. Check your wrist height.
Mar 1, 2024 · This article explains how to properly size and adjust a walking cane, and how a physical therapist can help with your choices. It also details a few health problems you may encounter if the size is wrong.
May 24, 2024 · A walking stick equipped with a foldaway seat (sometimes known as folding seat canes or stick seats) can be a savvy investment – we suggest looking for one that’s height adjustable. Some feature a tripod design (as shown above), while others feature three legs.
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Mar 6, 2020 · How to find the right mobility device for your needs. If choosing between a cane or a walker isn't a choice you ever dreamt of making, know that one roughly 1 in 4 adults over 65 uses one of these mobility devices, and significantly more older adults use them today than 15 years ago.
