How to Choose and Use a Cane

What are the types of canes?

A cane helps you walk when you have a problem with your leg or foot. Canes come in different styles. They are usually made out of wood or metal. You need to choose a cane that best suits your condition and the amount of support you need.

• Crook cane: This is the most common type of cane. It might also be called a single-point cane because it has only a single tip in contact with the ground. It is the least expensive and is often used for temporary conditions like fractures or sprains. Many people prefer this cane because you can hang it over your arm when you are not using it and free both hands.
• Center balance cane: This cane is best if you need firm support and assistance getting up and down from a chair. It is the most popular cane for people with arthritis, hip problems, back problems, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson's disease, or who have had a stroke. It has a bigger, flatter handle that provides a comfortable and secure grip. Straps allow you to carry it or hang it when not in use. This cane also has only 1 tip in contact with the ground.
• Brass-handle or parrot-head cane: If you need a cane only for light balance or mild weight bearing, you might choose this cane. This cane is usually chosen mainly for looks rather than as a walking support.
• Quad Cane: The quad cane has 4 feet at the end of the cane. People who need maximum weight bearing and support often choose this cane. It is often used long term. People may "graduate" to this type of cane after using a walker

With a written prescription from your healthcare provider, most health insurance providers will cover the cost of a cane. If you need to use a cane, ask your healthcare provider about getting a disabled permit to park in handicap zones.

How should a cane fit?

When you are standing up straight, with your elbow bent a little (about 30 degrees), the top of the cane should meet your wrist joint.

How do I use a cane?

• Walking: Hold the cane in the hand opposite the injury or weakness (for example, you would hold the cane in your right hand if your left leg is injured or weaker). Keep your elbow close to your body and your hand near your hip. Your hand should not move forward or out to the side--you should just pivot the wrist joint. Move the cane forward as you step forward with the bad leg. When weight is placed on the bad leg the cane will give support from the opposite side. Step past the cane with the good foot.
• Going up and down stairs: When you are going upstairs, lead with the good leg ("up with the good"). Then bring the bad leg and cane up the step. When you go down stairs, the cane and bad leg go first ("down with the bad").
• Getting up from a chair: When getting out of a chair, hold the cane in the hand opposite the bad leg, slide the foot of your bad leg forward a little, push out of the chair with your hand on the weak or injured side, and stand with your weight on the good leg. Use the cane to support your weight over the bad leg.

What will help me use the cane safely?

• Wear sturdy, low-heeled shoes with nonskid soles to help prevent falls.
• Avoid wet floors and sidewalks that are slippery.
• Remove throw rugs from your path and watch for electrical and telephone cords that may cause falls.
• Keep your free hand on the railing when you go up or down stairs.
• Avoid revolving doors and escalators.
• Slow down and take extra time to stay safe.