Canes and walkers assist people whose balance is impaired due to injury, illness or age. Using a cane or walker can help you stay mobile and carry out your usual activities. Knowing how to use a cane or walker properly is an important step in avoiding further damage to your body.
Grips
The shape and style of the grips or handles on a cane or walker may vary widely. Which one you choose is a matter of personal preference. Many canes are designed with specialized grips to prevent wrist and hand strain. Both canes and walkers are available with foam-covered or padded grips, which can also reduce hand strain and also help prevent the hands from slipping off the grips.
Fit
Both a cane and a walker must be fit to the individual using them. According to the Mayo Clinic, a cane should rise no higher than the crease in your wrist when your arm hangs naturally at your side. A walker, meanwhile, should be just a bit lower than a cane. You should be able to grip a walker with your hands resting comfortably at your sides.
Traction
According to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, canes and walkers usually have rubber-tipped feet at the bottom to provide traction. These tips can be replaced. If you use your walker or cane regularly, check the rubber tips to ensure they have not worn through. If they have, you can usually find replacements at a medical specialty store or through your physician or physical therapist.
Taking a Step
The American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons recommends that, whether you use a cane or walker, you never place either the cane or walker more than about one step in front of you. Placing it farther forward can throw you off balance and may result in a fall. Always step first with the stronger leg. Once you're sure you are securely balanced on your stronger leg, lift your weaker leg and bring the foot parallel to the foot on the stronger leg. Do not try to step too far forward with the weaker leg.
Stairs
According to the American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons, it is possible to climb steps with a cane, but stair-climbing should never be attempted with a walker. To climb steps with a cane, hold the cane in the hand opposite your weaker leg and grasp the handrail to the steps with the hand on the same side as your weaker leg. Lift your stronger leg and the cane first, using these to climb onto the first step. Once you are stable on that step, bring the weaker leg up onto the step beside your stronger leg. Do not attempt to place the weaker leg on the next step up, or you may fall.
Member Comments