How to Use a Cane

Canes are used to help with walking. Using a cane makes you more stable, reduces pain, and eases strain on certain muscle groups. There are various kinds of canes.

Most have either a single point, four points (quad cane), or three points at the bottom. The best kind of cane for you depends on what you need it for. People with arthritis generally do well with a single-point cane.

People who have certain neurological conditions, such as people who have had a stroke, may do better with a quad cane because it allows them to put more weight on it (support more of their body weight).

How to choose a cane that fits

It is important to use a cane that fits properly. A cane fits properly if the top of the cane comes to your wrist joint when you are standing upright with your arm relaxed at your side.

How to use your cane

Hold your cane in the hand opposite the injured or weaker side. Always move the cane and the foot of the weaker side with each other (in unison).

Walking

• Put as much weight on the cane as necessary to make walking comfortable, stable, and smooth.
• Stand tall with good posture and look ahead, not down at your feet.
• Hold the cane about 2 inches (5 cm) in front or to the side of you.
• Each time you take a step with your injured leg, move the cane at the same time to help balance you.

Going up steps

• Step first with your stronger foot.
• Move the cane and the weaker foot up the step at the same time.
• Always use the railing with your free hand.

Going down steps

• Step down first with the cane and your weaker foot.
• Then follow with your stronger foot.
• Always use the railing with your free hand.

Safety tips for home

Take these steps to make your home safer when you are walking with a cane:

• Be familiar with your home environment.
• Have sturdy handrails in your bathrooms and hallways.
• Wear nonslip, comfortable, well-fitting footwear.
• Use night-lights in the dark.
• Keep floor surfaces clean and dry.
• Keep high-traffic areas uncluttered.
• Remove any rugs, cords, or loose objects from the floor.

Contact a health care provider if:

• You still feel unsteady on your feet while using the cane.
• You develop new pain, such as pain in your back, shoulder, wrist, or hip.
• You develop any numbness or tingling.

Get help right away if:

• You fall.

Summary

• Using a cane makes you more stable, reduces pain, and eases strain on certain muscle groups.
• A cane fits properly if the top of the cane comes to your wrist joint when you are standing upright with your arm relaxed at your side.
• The best kind of cane for you depends on what you need it for.
• Hold your cane in the hand opposite the injured or weaker side.
• Always move the cane and the foot of the weaker side with each other (in unison).