Choosing the Right Walking Aid

Style

If you need to use your cane daily, the traditional candy-cane style with a curved handle may not be your best choice. These can be difficult to grip. Several different handgrip styles and shapes are available. Choose the one that feels most comfortable.

Canes with four feet offer greater stability than do straight canes but can be cumbersome to use. A lightweight cane is less of a burden than a heavier one. Both types can help take weight off a painful joint or leg.

Length

With shoes on, stand up straight, letting your arms hang at your sides. The top of the cane's handle should align with the crease of your wrist. When you hold the cane while standing still, your elbow should be flexed at a 30-degree angle.

Wooden canes must be cut to the correct height. Adjustable canes can be lengthened or shortened to fit.

Use

Hold your cane in the hand opposite the side that needs support. The cane and your affected leg should swing and strike the ground together.

Style

Select a pair that has comfortable grips and offers a lot of padding on top.

Canes with four feet offer greater stability than do straight canes but can be cumbersome to use. A lightweight cane is less of a burden than a heavier one. Both types can help take weight off a painful joint or leg.

Length

Crutches that are too long can press into your armpits, causing pressure on the nerves. The correct crutch length leaves you room to fit two or three fingers between your underarm and the top of the crutch. Raise or lower the handgrips so that they are at the same height as your hip line and your elbows are slightly bent.

Use

Avoid placing your crutches too far ahead as you step or they could slip out from under you. Keep the tips about 6 inches out from your sides and keep your steps to about 12 inches. Don't lean on the tops of the crutches when walking or standing. You can use several different patterns of gait with your crutches. A physical therapist can advise you on the one best suited for your needs.

Style

In general, walkers with wheels are easier to manage than walkers you lift, unless you have thick carpet or walk on rough ground. However, wheeled walkers may be difficult to stop if they don't have brakes. Wheeled walkers are especially important if you have balance problems or a problem with falls. Walkers also enable you to place more weight on your arms rather than your legs, which can be helpful if you have weakness or joint pain. If you'll be doing any traveling, consider a walker that folds.

Length

As with a cane, adjust walkers to the correct height. Generally, when your arms are relaxed at your sides, the top of the walker should align with the crease in your wrist. Increasing the height can improve safety but may make the walker more difficult to use. Your doctor or physical therapist can help you determine what height is right for you.

Use

To walk, move the walker about one step ahead of you, and then step into it, leading with your weak or injured leg. Don't attempt to climb stairs or use an escalator with a walker.