A cane is a stick used to give support and balance when walking. You may need a cane if you have had surgery on a foot or a leg, or if you are weak on one side of your body and have balance problems. Although pretty low tech, canes can take weight off your leg and joints and help mobility. You need to choose a cane that best suits your type of condition and the amount of support you need. With a written prescription from your care provider, many health insurance plans will cover the cost of a cane. Canes are sold at medical supply stores and pharmacies.
What to Look for
Canes come in many different styles and are usually made of wood, metal or plastic. The most common type of cane and the least expensive is the crook cane. Many people prefer a crook cane because you can hang it over your arm when you do not need it. Some canes have very decorative handles and some have 4 feet at the bottom--keep in mind some canes are just for decoration and might not meet your weight bearing needs. A physical or occupational therapist can help you select the right type of cane. Here are some tips for purchasing a cane:
-- Try different handles to see which one suits your grip and hand strength.
-- You may want to consider a collapsible cane that can fit into a purse or suitcase. (Be sure the parts are easy to lock back together!)
-- Some canes come with wrist straps and other features such as grippers which can help extend a person's reach.
-- High tech canes can actually be "self righting," which means the cane will return to an upright position if it is dropped or knocked over, eliminating the need for the user to bend over to pick it up.
Common Pitfalls
"The American Journal of Preventive Medicine" found that falls while using canes are among the most common injuries associated with medical devices. Be sure your care provider assures your new cane is the proper length and shows you how to use it properly. You may also be given a set of strengthening exercises so that you can safely walk on a variety of surfaces, get up and down stairs, and safely get up from a chair. In general, if your cane does not feel right, ask your physician or physical therapist to check the fit.
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