Using a Cane

 A walker, crutches, or cane can be used to compensate for a loss of strength, range of motion, joint stability, coordination, or endurance. It can also help to relieve tension in a sore joint or limb. Using a walking aid can make your everyday activities safer and more independent.

Almost everyone has used a walking aid at some point, even if it was simply fooling around with someone else's crutches. As a result, the majority of people believe they understand how to operate this equipment. However, a few easy guidelines will make utilizing your walking aid more convenient and safe. 

Using a cane

If you're using a cane to support a weak or painful limb, hold the cane on the side opposite the weak or painful leg. For example, if your right hip hurts, use your left hand to hold the cane.

If you're utilizing the cane to help with balance and stability, keep it in the hand that you don't use as much. If you're right-handed, you'll generally want to hold the cane in your left hand so you can do other things with your right. 

Hold the cane close to your body and push down on it straight. If you need to put a lot of weight on the cane because your balance is bad or you have a lot of discomfort or weakness, talk to your doctor about using crutches or a walker instead.

Make sure your best walking cane for balance is the right size for you. The handle of the cane should be near to the top of your leg when you stand up in your regular posture with the cane tip on the ground. It's best if your elbow is slightly bent.

If you have modest issues with balance or stability on your feet, a cane can help. Shifting some weight to the cane can also help take some weight off one leg. If you merely need a little aid walking comfortably and safely, your doctor may recommend a cane.  

 

To walk using a cane

The simplest approach to think about walking with a cane is that you're taking regular steps and merely swinging your arm forward with the cane.

As if you were swinging your arm, move the cane in tandem with the opposing leg. When you stride with your right foot and hold the cane in your left hand, for example, move the cane forward. You'll be moving your leg at the same time as the cane if you're using it to help with a sore or weak leg.

  1. Set the cane comfortably in front of you, even with the foot you're stepping with. Leaning forward to reaching further is not a good idea.
  2. With the other foot, take a step past the cane.
  3. Repeat.

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