For those who experience difficulty walking due to injury or infirmity, a cane can provide assistance by helping to support the weight of the upper body. In addition to this utilitarian function, canes can also serve as a stylish fashion accessory when used in public. However, before the cane is suitable to serve either purpose, the user must first fit it to match his own personal measurements. An improperly fit cane can prove uncomfortable and unsafe if used.
Wrist Measurement
Step 1
Put on your shoes and stand upright with your feet together and your hands resting comfortably at your sides.
Step 2
Ask another person to hold one end of the measuring tape or yardstick at the wrist joint of the arm you will use to hold the cane. Measure from the middle crease of the wrist joint.
Step 3
Measure the distance from your wrist to the surface of the floor. Round the measurement up to the nearest inch.
Cane Cutting
Step 1
Measure the height of the cane you wish to cut; take the measurement from the top of the cane down to the bottom of the rubber tip. Subtract the results of your wrist measurement from the measurements of the cane.
Step 2
Grip the rubber tip located at the bottom of the cane. Pull and twist the rubber tip until it comes free from the cane.
Step 3
Clamp the cane to a work table or use one hand to hold it in place near the edge of a level work surface, with the bottom portion extending into open air. Use a hack saw to cut off the excess portion of the cane.
Step 4
Fit the end of the rubber tip over the bottom of the cane. Push the tip upwards and twist until it is fully seated on the end of the cane.
Tips and Warnings
- One alternative to measuring from the wrist is to perform an estimate based on your height. Convert your height to inches, then divide the number of inches by 2 and round up. Add 1/2 inch and use this as your final measurement. When the cane is properly sized, you should be able to hold it upright with your hand by your hip; if you need to lean to one side or bring your hand upwards, the cane is inappropriate for your frame. If you already have a cane of the proper size and wish to measure it for use in sizing a replacement, remove the rubber tip first.
- Do not attempt to perform the wrist measurement without assistance, as the results may prove inaccurate.
Things You'll Need
- Walking shoes
- Measuring tape or yardstick
- Hack saw
- Work table (optional)
- Table clamp (optional)
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