A walking cane is an important aid for many people with disabilities or age-related impairments and for people recovering from injuries. The walking cane is the key to staying independent and having a more active and healthy lifestyle. It is important to have the right kind of cane, though. You should select a walking cane that has the right kind of support and features to meet your individual needs. Read on to learn select a walking cane.
Instructions
1. Consult with your doctor or physical therapist to decide if you need a straight cane or a special design like a quad cane. Straight canes provide good support but do not stand up on their own. Some people need greater stability and for them, a quad cane (which has four “feet” at the bottom) is a better choice.
2. Locate a dealer. Medical supply companies who sell to the public carry lines of walking canes, and your doctor can probably refer you to one. Many department stores also carry walking canes as well as specialty shops that market clothing and fashion accessories.
3. Choose the features you want in your walking cane. Some walking canes can be folded up for easy storage, which is ideal if you will be carrying one on an airplane or other restricted space. You can also find canes with built in lights if you will need to walk at night. There are even canes with lightweight fold-out seats so you can rest if you become fatigued.
4. Have your cane properly sized. Walking canes should be approximately one-half a persons height. This is only a rough measure, because individual bodies vary. Your doctor, physical therapist, or the dealer from whom you purchase the cane can adjust it to the proper length for you.
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