A walking cane is a common mobility aid that can significantly improve stability and reduce strain on the lower body. Proper usage is paramount for the cane to function as intended, maximizing support and ensuring the user’s safety. Learning the correct technique prevents new musculoskeletal issues and ensures the cane actively transfers weight away from an injured or painful limb.
The Correct Side and Biomechanics
The cane should always be held in the hand opposite the leg needing support, or the stronger side of the body. For instance, if the right leg is injured or weak, the cane is carried in the left hand. This placement mimics the body’s natural gait pattern, where the arm swings opposite the leg that is stepping forward. Using the cane on the unaffected side widens the base of support and helps to shift the body’s center of gravity.
When the user steps with the weak leg, they apply pressure through the cane with the opposite hand, effectively creating a temporary three-point support system. This action reduces the load on the painful hip or knee by engaging the opposite arm and shoulder muscles. Holding the cane on the same side as the injury would force the user to lean more, which is less stable and less effective at offloading the joint.
Coordinating the Cane and Your Steps
Walking with a cane involves a coordinated movement known as a modified two-point gait. The cane and the weak or injured leg must move forward simultaneously. The user should advance the cane and the affected leg together, placing them on the ground at the same time. This creates the stability needed to bear weight on the weak side.
Next, the strong leg steps past the weak leg and the cane, completing the cycle. The user should apply a comfortable amount of downward pressure onto the cane handle as the weak leg makes contact with the ground. The cane should be placed about four to six inches to the side of the foot to maintain a stable stance.
Checking for Proper Cane Fit
Proper cane height is necessary to ensure the aid provides maximum support and to prevent strain on the shoulder and back. A cane that is too long can cause the user to elevate their shoulder, while one that is too short may cause stooping and loss of balance. The correct height is determined by standing tall with the arms relaxed.
The top of the cane handle should align with the crease of the wrist when the user is wearing their typical walking shoes. When gripping the handle, the elbow should have a slight bend, ideally between 15 and 20 degrees. This slight bend allows the arm muscles to effectively absorb pressure and offload the lower body joints. The rubber tip, or ferrule, on the bottom of the cane should also be checked regularly for wear, as a damaged tip compromises traction and increases the risk of slipping.
Navigating Stairs and Different Surfaces
Navigating stairs requires a specific sequence to maintain balance and safety. A helpful safety instruction to remember is “Up with the good, down with the bad.” When ascending, the strong leg steps up onto the next stair first, followed by the cane and the weak leg moving up to meet it.
When descending, the cane is lowered to the step below, followed by the weak leg, and finally the strong leg steps down to join them. When a handrail is available, it should be used for added stability, with the cane held in the hand opposite the rail. On slippery or uneven surfaces, like wet pavement or thick carpet, the user should slow their pace and ensure the cane tip is firmly placed before shifting weight.