Walking canes are also known as walking sticks. Although there are different varieties of walking canes, the terms for the basic components are the same. The bottom of the cane is called the tip or the ferrule. Most of the length of a walking cane is composed of the shaft. The shaft connects to the handle by a band or metal disk, called the collar. Walking canes can be decorative, but the primary purpose of a walking cane is to make the physical act of walking easier.
Purpose
There are different ways a walking cane can help a person walk more easily. The cane provides an additional contact point with the ground, which can help people with balance problems. In this case, the cane may not need to bear any of the user's weight. In other cases, users may need the cane to support some of their weight, due to weakness of the legs or other issues. Some walking canes, called quad canes, have four-legged tips. These canes are designed to bear additional weight and increase stability. There are also canes with three-legged tips.
Cane Length
When choosing a good length for a walking cane, users should stand with arms relaxed and hanging straight down. Although people's needs regarding cane length can vary, the rule of thumb is that the top of the handle should be even with the crease of the wrist when the arms are hanging straight down.
Cane Types
Standard canes are generally 34 to 42 inches long and have a rounded handle. Other canes have a straight handle shaped like the letter "T" and are sometimes called T-handled canes. A straight handle may help cane users who have weak hands. Canes are called broad-base canes when they have three or four short legs at the bottom for additional support.
Handle
Handles may be made of wood, plastic, metal or other materials. Metal handles may slip out of the hand if too much sweat or oil is present. Metal handles may also feel cold to the touch when air temperatures are low.
Shaft and Tip
The cane shaft is usually made of wood, but other materials such as bone, aluminum or bamboo may be used. The tip was originally made of copper and other metals to help prevent damage and wear to the shaft. Tips are now typically constructed with nonskid rubber.
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