Getting the right length walking cane is critically important to achieve a stable, natural gait. If the cane is too long, lifting and moving it may become an awkward struggle. If the cane is too short, you will be forced to lean to one side while using it. Establishing your appropriate cane length is the first step toward finding the right cane. This procedure can be carried out either by measuring a cane against your body or measuring your body and then selecting the correct length of walking cane.
Measuring With the Cane
Step 1
Put on your usual walking shoes. Different shoes have different sole heights, which will affect how long a cane you need.
Step 2
Stand up straight with your feet shoulder-width apart. Hold on to something sturdy--a wall or a piece of heavy furniture--to ensure you are steady on your feet.
Step 3
Place the end of the cane on the ground close beside your good side foot. Lean the cane against your leg.
Step 4
Let your arm on your good side hang straight down beside the cane. The top of the cane's handle should be level with your wrist.
Measuring Without the Cane
Step 1
Put on your usual walking shoes. Stand as upright as you can; hold on to a wall or piece of furniture, if necessary to keep yourself stable.
Step 2
Let your arms hang relaxed by your side. You may notice a slight bend in your elbow; this is natural.
Step 3
Ask a friend to help you measure the distance from your wrist straight down to the floor, using a measuring tape or yardstick. Make sure she measures in as straight a line as possible--the line of your leg makes a good guide--and ask her to round the measurement up to the nearest half inch. This is your appropriate cane length.
Tips and Warnings
- Ask a friend to help you measure without the cane, as it would be nearly impossible to get a correct measurement on your own If you're purchasing a cane from an individual and they're not sure how to measure the cane, ask them to measure from the bottom of the cane's tip to the lowest point on the top of the cane's handle; this is the cane length.
Things You'll Need
- Walking shoes
- Measuring tape or yardstick
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