How to Utilize a Walking Stick

Walking sticks prove immensely beneficial in maintaining balance and shifting more weight onto your arms. They're particularly useful for individuals with injured legs or those engaging in hiking. Regardless of the type of walking stick you opt for, ensure it's adjusted to the appropriate length for comfortable walking.

Consult with a physician to determine if a walking stick is suitable for your specific injury. If you have a hip, knee, or leg injury, your doctor might suggest using a walking stick (cane). In some cases, alternative assistive devices like walkers or crutches may be recommended. If your doctor prescribes a cane, you can typically have the cost covered by health insurance, though you'll need to obtain the cane yourself.

Adjust your cane or walking stick so that it reaches your wrist. Stand upright and let your arms hang naturally by your sides. Set the cane's height to align with your wrist, ensuring you don't need to stoop to use it while still being able to bear weight on it.

• Choosing the correct height alleviates strain on your shoulders and wrists.
• A physical therapist can assist in adjusting the cane to the appropriate height.

Hold your walking stick in the hand opposite your injured leg. Contrary to popular belief, the cane should be held on the side opposite the injury. If your left leg is injured, hold the cane in your right hand; if your right leg is injured, hold it in your left hand.

• This redistributes your body weight to the stronger side.

Coordinate the movement of your walking stick with your injured leg. Place the cane in front of you as you step forward with your injured leg, approximately 2 inches (5.1 cm) ahead. Take a small step with both the injured leg and cane before advancing with your unaffected leg.

• This method allows both your walking stick and injured leg to share the load.
• Although it may take practice, synchronizing the cane's movement with your leg will become easier over time.

Ascend stairs by leading with your uninjured leg. Ensure the walking stick is in the hand opposite your injured leg. If feasible, grasp a handrail with the other hand. Begin by stepping up with your uninjured leg, followed by your injured leg and the cane.

• Remember to synchronize the movement of your injured leg and the cane.

Descend stairs starting with the cane. Position the cane on the step below you and descend with your injured leg first. Subsequently, lower your unaffected leg onto the same step as the cane. If a handrail is available, utilize it for added stability.

• Take your time while descending stairs to prevent falls.

Clear trip hazards from your home. Ensure that your household is free from obstacles that may obstruct your walking stick, such as cluttered stairs, furniture blocking pathways, and loose electrical cords. Consider installing grab bars and using rubber mats in the shower to reduce the risk of slipping.

• Take precautions to prevent accidents and enhance safety at home.

Determine whether to use one or two walking sticks. While many opt for the stability of two walking sticks or hiking poles, a single stick may suffice for less challenging terrain. If using a single stick, periodically switch hands for balance.

• Choose the option that best suits your hiking needs and preferences.

Select a walking stick that extends 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) above your elbow. Opt for a stick length that allows for a comfortable grip, typically extending 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) above your elbow. When making your own stick, trim it accordingly, or test the height when purchasing a walking stick.

• Err on the side of a longer stick, as it can always be trimmed down if necessary.

Maintain a right angle at your elbow and grasp the walking stick firmly. Find a comfortable grip height that suits you, whether slightly above or below a right angle. Hold the stick in your preferred hand, though many opt for their dominant hand.

• If using a hiking pole with a loop, insert your hand from below and grip the handle.

Coordinate your walking stick with the opposite foot. Syncing the movement of your stick with the opposite foot promotes a natural walking rhythm and ensures balanced weight distribution. For instance, if your walking stick is in your right hand, move it forward simultaneously with your left foot.

• This coordination feels more intuitive than moving the stick and foot on the same side simultaneously.

Secure the walking stick against the stream bed when crossing streams. When traversing rocky streams, firmly plant the walking stick to the stream bed. This stabilizes your balance, providing support if you step on loose or slippery rocks.

• Use the stick to gauge water depth as well.