Basic Guide For Canes

• Standard Cane Specifics
• Quad Cane Specifics
• Canes & Crutches
• How to Get into a Chair
• How to Get out of a Chair
• How to Walk on Flat Floors
• Going Up Stairs
• Going Down Stairs
• Tips for Using Your Cane Safely

A cane is a stick used to give you support and balance when walking. Most canes are made of metal, wood, or plastic. You may need to use a cane if you are weak on one side of your body or have balance problems. The cane can help decrease pain when walking by taking weight off your leg and joints, making walking easier and less tiring.

• Standard canes: Usually made of wood or metal, these canes are typically 34 to 42 inches (86 to 107 cm) long and may have a rounded crook handle. They are easy to use and relatively inexpensive. It is recommended to choose a cane with a wooden or plastic handle instead of metal, as metal handles can slip from your hand if it sweats or become too cold in cold weather.
• Straight-handled canes: Also called "T-handle canes," they are made of wood, plastic, or metal. You may need this type of cane if your hand is weak. A T-handle cane helps you be more steady while walking. It is important to ensure the cane is the correct height for you.
• Broad-based canes (Quad Canes): These canes are made of lightweight metal with 3 or 4 short legs, offering more stability than a standard cane. The legs allow the cane to stand on its own when not in use, and they provide additional support, particularly when balance is an issue.

• Decreases the load on the affected leg and/or assists with balance.
• Provides the least amount of stability compared to other walking aids.
• Should be held in the opposite hand to the affected leg.
• When walking outdoors in winter, install an ice pick at the tip of the cane for better traction.

• Decreases the load on the affected leg and/or assists with balance.
• More stable than a single-point cane.
• Should be held in the opposite hand to the affected leg.
• Comes in two sizes: large-base and small-base.

When standing tall with arms at your side, adjust the cane height so that the handle is level with your wrist.

• Stand with the back of your legs against the chair seat.
• Rest the cane against the chair.
• Reach back with both hands to grip the chair arms.
• Put your weaker leg slightly off the floor.
• Put all your weight on your stronger leg.
• Slowly sit down and slide backward into the chair.

• Hold your cane with your stronger hand.
• Grasp the arms of the chair.
• Put your stronger foot slightly forward.
• Lean a little forward and push on the arms of the chair to raise yourself.
• Stand with your cane about 4 inches (10 cm) to the side of your stronger foot.
• Wait a few seconds to get used to standing before you start walking.

• Place the cane about 4 inches (10 cm) to the side of your stronger leg.
• Put weight on your stronger side.
• Move the cane about 4 inches (10 cm) in front of your stronger leg, bringing your weaker leg forward at the same time.
• Using the cane to help keep your weight off your weaker leg, move your stronger leg ahead.
• Your heel will be a little beyond the tip of the cane.
• Repeat these steps and try to walk straight.

Note: The affected leg should move forward with the cane.

• Place the sound leg up one step.
• Bring the cane and affected leg up onto the same step as the sound leg.
• Repeat the pattern.

"Up with the good"

• Place the cane and affected leg down one step.
• Bring the sound leg down onto the same step.
• Repeat the pattern.

"Down with the bad"

• Wear shoes with rubber soles, such as tennis shoes. Slippers should not be worn as they can slide off your feet and cause a fall. Avoid shoes with leather heels or soles that may slide.
• Ensure the floor is safe for use with the cane. The floor must be clean, dry, and well-lit. Remove throw rugs, tape or nail down loose carpet edges, and keep traffic areas clear of clutter.
• Stand for a few seconds before you start moving with your cane. This will help your body adjust. Do not walk if you are feeling dizzy.
• Look straight ahead when walking. Looking down can cause you to trip over obstacles.
• To carry light items while using your cane, use a backpack or carry a bag. Do not attempt to carry heavy objects.

Caution: The base of a quad cane may be too large for some steps. Turning the cane sideways may allow all four legs to rest on the step. Using a handrail in addition to the cane will increase safety on stairs.