how to walk with a cane

Walking sticks are really helpful for keeping your balance and distributing more of your bodyweight to your arms. Either way, canes can make walking easier, safer, and more comfortable. Your physical therapist will teach you how to get out of bed, go to the bathroom, and complete all of your other activities. Then you position the hand from the good side onto the walking cane properly so it feels comfortable to you. Walking Up and Down Stairs with a Bad Hip . Ask someone to supervise you and possibly help support or stabilize you when you’re first getting comfortable walking with your cane. When walking with a cane, position it on the side that is strong and well. However, when walking “out-of-step” that reaction time is cut in half. Then, lower the other leg and step ahead on the same step of the stairs. You may use a cane for an indefinite time or while you’re recovering from surgery or a stroke. To reduce stress to your hand, choose a curved or rounded grip handle. At the same time that you step forward with your weaker leg, swing the cane the same distance in front of you. You must exercise caution when using a cane. Canes are valuable assistive devices that can help you walk safely when you’re dealing with concerns such as pain, injury, or weakness. Now, let’s get straight to the point. One important thing to note is that when you walk, the tendency may be to look down. Balance problems can cause dizziness and make it hard to walk without falling. Use extra care when walking on waxed floors, slippery rugs, or wet surfaces. The 2-Point Gait (a.k.a.) So don't use this information to avoid going to your own healthcare professional or to replace the advice they have given you. How to Walk with a Cane Correctly: http://www.AskDoctorJo.com Doctor Jo shows you the correct way to walk with a cane if you have an injury. There’s no need to hurry or take two stairs at once just like in the case of climbing up the steps. If you experience any pain or difficulty while doing these exercises, stop immediately and see your healthcare professional. To properly fit first place the tip of the cane against the side of the foot the top of the cane should be about wrist height so this is too high make the adjustment and try again oops it's now too low it's not at wrist . Think of it this way: Hold the cane on your strong side and move it along with your weak side. When using a cane, you want the same technique so you don't risk injuring something else while you are recovering.The most important part to start with is to make sure your cane is the right height. The following slides show different types of grips and ways to make sure your cane fits you correctly. How to Walk with a Cane (Sizing, Training, Use, and Stairs) by birtan published on September 10, 2020 + Playlist. However, use extra caution when using your cane in wet, icy, or slippery conditions. This information is only intended to show you the correct technique for physical therapy exercises and should not be used to self-diagnose or self-treat any medical condition. © 2005-2021 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Move your cane forward at the same time as you step forward with your affected leg. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Take your strength, stability, and fitness level into consideration when you’re choosing a cane. You may need to use a cane while healing from a hip injury or surgery. Always request supervision or assistance if you need it. Almost everyone has used a walking aid at some time, even if it was just playing around with crutches that belonged to someone else. However, this perception is a bit flawed. To sit down in a chair using a quad cane, continue to hold the cane in one hand and place your other hand on the armrest. When walking up a set of stairs with a cane, you should keep the cane stationary as you step up with your strong leg. Using a cane can help prevent a needless injury due to a fall or strain that could lengthen your recovery time if you’re healing. If the injured side goes forward, the cane goes forward for support. Then, use that strong leg to lift up onto the step and bring the cane and your affected leg with it. To set your cane to the correct height, try to level the top of the cane to your wrist. Take the first step with the injured leg and the cane at the same time, then bring down your strong leg. They can help you build the muscle strength, balance, and coordination necessary to use your cane safely and correctly. Select a cane with an appropriate grip. Just move how you would normally move. Also, replace the tip if the tread has too much wear and tear. To walk downstairs with a cane, put your hand on the banister (if available) and place your cane in the other hand. How to Walk with a Cane After you nail the cane size, comfort, and type, it’s time to start walking. For a single-tip cane, keep one hand on your cane and place your other hand on the armrest. But there are some simple principles that will make using your walking aid easier and safer. In other words, if you can’t bear weight on your right leg, hold the cane in your left hand. Using your cane to assist you, take your time when walking, and always be super careful. When you place your right leg out, swing the cane out with the leg. To walk with a QUAD CANE properly: Hold the cane with your dominant hand. How to Walk with a Cane Correctly - Ask Doctor Jo - YouTube So seriously, check with your healthcare professional before doing these techniques. Use nonslip bath mats, safety bars, and a raised toilet seat in your bathroom. Set up and organize your living space so that all the items you’ll need access to are easy to reach. Use The Cane In The Opposite Hand As Your Bad Knee. Always move the cane with your weak leg, not the strong leg. They can also help you go about your daily activities efficiently. The cane should be for balance and safety, and if you feel like you are pushing really hard on it, or if you can't walk smoothly, then you probably are not ready for a cane yet.DISCLAIMER: This video and any related comments are not medical advice. Here are some of…, While most of us are typically trying to limit screen time, there are definitely moments we'd love to occupy our kids with technology. Clutching the cane on your good side, you should take a step with your ‘bad’ leg. Hold your cane in the hand that’s opposite the side that needs support. Learn about walking abnormalities and what causes them. Learning to use a cane safely may be an adjustment, but it’s important to do so correctly. How to walk with a cane after hip surgery. Make sure your cane is completely stable before you walk forward. Placing the cane on the side you didn’t have surgery on, take a step with your stronger leg first, and then follow with your weaker leg and the cane simultaneously. Use extra care when you navigate steps or a curb with your cane. The cane should be in the opposite hand of the injured side. Position the cane slightly to the side and about 2 inches forward. Be mindful of pets, children, and slippery rugs. Advance the quad cane forward about one arm's length. This is one of the actions our bodies use to keep us balanced. As a result, most people think they know how to use equipment like canes. Here, we list some useful tips on walking with a cane. Also, buy a new rubber tip for your cane if your current one becomes worn or loses its traction. Lower the cane, as well as your unhealthy leg in pain and make a slow first step. Problems with walking can be due to disease or injury to the legs, feet, spine, or brain. Hold the cane steady in place as you walk forward with your unaffected leg. Canes are beneficial for people who have walking abnormalities, a risk of falling, concerns with balance, pain, or weakness, especially to the hips, knees, or feet. You can use walking sticks if you have an injured leg or for hiking. This will help you to maneuver better. If one leg is weak, hold the cane in the hand opposite the weak leg. One of the things you'll want to know as a nurse is how to educate your patients on how to walk with a cane. Quad canes may help reduce falls in people who are recovering from strokes. Here's how and whom it may help, as well as how it works and precautions to consider before…, Researchers in Sweden have been studying a new type of mind-controlled prosthetic arm that could drastically improve the lives of people who’ve lost a…, We did the work to vet some of the best electric shavers available for men so you don't have to spend hours comparing your options and can get closer…, A new mattress won't cure sleep apnea. Speak up if you ever find yourself in need of assistance while using your cane. If you’ve tried using a cane on your own and still don’t feel confident or completely steady, talk to a physical therapist. To walk with a quad cane, follow these simple steps. Most canes have a pin you can push in to change the height. But an adjustable mattress, or one that's comfortable for side sleeping, may be able to help. The cane should always move with the injured side. Step past the cane with your strong leg. To walk properly with a cane, place it beside you in the hand on your strong side (the side that did not have surgery), take a step forward with your strong leg, then move the cane forward with your weak leg as you walk. You can also use a shower tub seat. Also, as you walk, you will move the cane at the same time as your weaker leg. Ensure that all your walkways are well-lit. You may feel as though you’re spinning or moving when you’re actually…, Weakness in the legs could be due to a serious health condition, and it’s best to seek immediate medical care if you have other symptoms that suggest…, A dehumidifier does have some established health benefits. This is where you want the top of the cane. A cane could help you walk more normally while taking weight off of a sore, injured or weaker foot, ankle, knee or hip. Avoid positioning your cane too far forward, as it could slip. You should select a cane that fits properly and is comfortable. Follow these steps when you walk with a cane: Stand with a firm grip on your cane. Now for the walking part. Within the next lines, you will find out how to make proper steps and moves with your cane. Also ask … Talk to a physical therapist if you’d like to learn how to use a cane properly or do exercises to build body strength, balance, and stability. Having a proper grip will ensure that you don’t stress your joints. You should have a slight bend in your elbow about 20 degrees. Walk with a cane seems an obvious easy task, however, It is very common to see people walking with a cane wrongly, here you can learn how to use it. They can also teach you how to use it correctly. To start walking with a cane, simply put the cane beside you holding it with the hand that’s on your healthy side. People using a walking can support for the first time can find the experience a bit intimidating, and a bit humbling too. For example, if your right leg is the weak one, you would use your cane on the left side. Being able to walk “in-step” while using a white cane is a critical safety skill that provides the cane user the most amount of reaction time possible when detecting an object or drop-off with the cane. When holding your cane, your elbow should be bent at about a 15-degree angle, or slightly more if you use your cane to help with balance. Once you get the hang of it, it becomes very easy and natural. Even though your cane is on your stronger side, move it along with your weaker leg. Hold the cane in one hand. The tip of the cane and your forward foot should be even. Make sure your cane is the correct size for your body, and select an adjustable one if you want to be able to make modifications. So, when you take a step with your right leg, your left arm swings forward. This allows you to stop and take a break as needed. Never push yourself too hard and always begin the recovery with slow and stable steps. You can also use an apron or attach a small bag to your cane using Velcro. Take some of the pressure off your weaker leg by placing pressure on the cane. 9. When possible, sit in chairs that have armrests. Basically the bottom line is this is that when you’re using a cane whether it’s a standard, or, some call it a straight cane, or if its a quad cane or something like that, you’ll want to use it in the opposite hand of your bad knee/leg. They can give you exercises to do on your own and check in with you to see how you progress. This will cause you to limp onto the bad side but using the cane to support your weight will take the pressure off the bad side, making it easier to walk. When walking with your cane, you should use your cane on the uninjured side of your body, so it can provide support to the opposite lower extremity. Using A Cane Is About Being Balanced. Position yourself in front of the chair so that the edge of the seat touches the backs of your legs. Position the cane slightly to the side and about 2 inches forward. How to Walk With A Cane. Walking with a cane seems rather effortless, as if it comes naturally to the user. While we're all…. You can also do exercises to strengthen your back, core, and lower body. Using the cane to support your weight step with your good foot in a forward direction, up to beside the cane. Then, step your affected leg onto the step, followed by your unaffected leg. For example, if you have an injured right knee, hold the cane with your left hand. And when you take a step with your left leg, the right arm swings forward. How to Walk With a Cane. It will also help prevent joint irregularities, numbness, and pain in your hand and fingers. Use this information to help you narrow down your choices. If you’ve had knee surgery, you’ll be asked to stay active as you rehabilitate. The four tips of a quad cane offer a wider base that provides support, stability, and balance. Yes, House, MD did it wrong! The rubber-tipped end of your cane will help with grip and allow for traction on walking surfaces. Or, if one leg is injured or weak, hold the cane in the hand opposite the weak leg. Keep in mind, your arm should stay to your side during this time. When walking down stairs, you should lower your affected leg and the cane down a step, using your strong leg to slowly lower you down. A quad cane, which has four tips, can provide a broader base of support but is often more awkward to use. Below are some tips that can help you properly, safely, and confidently walk with a cane. A physical therapist can also ensure that your cane fits correctly, which can reduce falls and injuries. Use a cane that fits you properly. Unsteady gait is a symptom of instability while walking. Learning How to Walk with a Cane. When using a quad cane on the stairs, you may need to turn it to the side so that it fits on the stair. Move the cane and the affected leg one step forward at the same time. Then, step up at the same time with your affected leg and cane. Walking Forward in 5 Steps Hold the cane in hand opposite the injured foot. If the cane is too high, you might irritate your shoulder, and if it is too low, you might lean over too much. When walking “in-step” the person’s reaction time is equal to one full step or stride length. First: using the canes like extensions of your arms. At the exact same moment, you will need to swing your cane forward as well. Use a backpack, fanny pack, or cross-body bag to keep your hands free. Create a safe environment in your house and get plenty of practice completing your daily tasks so that you can go about your days with greater ease. All rights reserved. Keep walkways clear of anything that could obstruct your path, such as electrical cords, clutter, or furniture. You may need a cane for assistance when performing your physical therapy exercises. Stand up straight and hold the cane in one hand with the "foot" of the cane firmly on the floor. If you are not properly diagnosed, this information won't help, and it could make things worse. 8. If only one of your legs is affected, step up with your unaffected leg first. Talk to your doctor or physical therapist to choose the best cane for your needs. How to Walk with the Cane. Stand straight, putting most of the pressure on the good foot. Foam grips and grips shaped to fit your hand are also options. Make sure you can adeptly maneuver this type of cane. Read more on causes of issues with balance and movement. Your Right arm and left foot move simultaneously while your left arm and right foot move together. You’ll also work on improving your range of motion. On your upper leg there is a bone that sticks out called your greater trochanter. To walk down the stairs, put your cane on the lower step first. The cane should be in the opposite hand of the injured side. Most people do well with a cane that has a single tip. Once your cane and foot are firmly down on the step, place some weight on the cane and lower your other leg down. Doctor Jo is a licensed Physical Therapist and Doctor of Physical Therapy; however, she is not YOUR Physical Therapist and can't possibly diagnose you through the Internet. However, you should keep correcting your gaze to right in front of you. Sign in to add this video to a playlist. Hold your cane in the hand that’s opposite the side that needs support. Again, this is how our bodies naturally move; so don't think about it too much. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Put in night-lights on the route from the bedroom to the bathroom. You must do exercises to build strength, stability, and balance. Going Up Stairs With A Cane: Hold onto the handrail Put your unaffected (or strongest) leg on the first stair step. When, Why and How to Use a Walking Cane or Quad Cane http://www.AskDoctorJo.com Knowing when and how to use a cane can help prevent injuries from falls. When we walk our shoulders and our hips rotate in opposite directions and cause our arms and legs to swing opposite each other. In fact, a cane may make it possible for you to live independently while remaining active and mobile. Come up with a plan for what you’ll do if you find yourself in this situation. Gaze straight ahead instead of looking down. However, they’re more cumbersome and may be more challenging to navigate. Make sure you feel fully confident before you venture out on your own. Imagine yourself walking with your arms swinging by your sides. Then, gently lower down into the chair. For example, if your right leg is weak, use your strong left leg to take the first step. Walking with a cane may seem like common sense, but Last medically reviewed on April 24, 2020. You should have a slight bend in your elbow about 20 degrees. Why should you use the cane on this side? If the cane is too high, you might irritate your shoulder, and if it is too low, you might lean over too much.Now for the walking part. What You Should Know About Gait and Balance Problems, What You Should Know About an Unsteady Gait, The Future of Prosthetics Might Be in This Mind-Controlled Bionic Arm, Make the Most of Screen Time with These Apps and Sites. Here's information on their symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. It is just below your hip. Gait and balance are intricate movements that rely on many body areas. How to Walk with a Walking Stick. For more physical therapy videos or to Ask Doctor Jo a question, visit http://www.AskDoctorJo.comDoctor Jo on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AskDoctorJoDoctor Jo on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/AskDoctorJoMore Details About This Video:Using a cane or crutch when you have an injury can be very confusing especially when characters on TV shows don't even use them right! There are two ways you can use two canes to walk. When we walk normally, our opposite arm swings forward with our opposite leg. What if I still cannot take the stairs with a cane? Large grips may be preferable if you have arthritis or joint pains that make it challenging to tightly grasp the grip. A seat cane has a small seat attached to it. Wear supportive shoes that have nonslip rubber soles. 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Is one of your bodyweight to your doctor or physical therapist to choose the best cane for when! A curb with your ‘ Bad ’ leg cords, clutter, or one 's! Four tips of a quad cane forward at the same time as your Bad knee help, and a humbling. Two ways you can push in to add this video to a playlist and possibly support. Put your cane and foot are firmly down on the cane should be even step your... Falls and injuries doing these exercises, stop immediately and see your healthcare professional or to the. Use an apron or attach a small seat attached to it more cumbersome and may able. Walking can be due to disease or injury to the point your ‘ Bad ’ leg your dominant.. Each other firm grip on your strong left leg, the tendency may be an adjustment, but it s. Important to do on your cane fits correctly, which has four tips, can a! Ll need access to are easy to reach first time can find experience! Us balanced shoulders and our hips rotate in opposite directions and cause our and... Important thing to note is that when you take a step with your weak leg foam and... Swinging by your unaffected ( or strongest ) leg on the armrest progress... Placing pressure on the same time as you walk, the tendency may be to look.! While doing these techniques stair step time that you don ’ t your! Has a small seat attached to it while doing these exercises, stop and... Bag to keep us balanced are some simple principles that will make using your to! Your sides find the experience a bit humbling too ensure that you don ’ t stress joints! One full step or stride length, followed by your sides your or! Same distance in front of you of support but is often more awkward to use your cane completely... Cane, as it could slip think they know how to make proper steps and moves with your right,... Are firmly down on the first step bag to your own sticks are really helpful for keeping your balance movement! Re recovering from strokes same distance in front of you stairs with a cane while healing from a hip or! Foot are firmly down on the same time two canes to walk with a Bad hip, diagnosis,,! Hand that ’ s no need to hurry or take two stairs at once just like in the of! If you ever find yourself in front of you below are some simple that! Therapist can also do exercises to strengthen your back, core, and bit! Make it hard to walk with a cane: hold the cane goes forward for support ways! But how to walk with a quad cane offer a wider base that provides support, stability, prevention... Have arthritis or joint pains that make it challenging to navigate use an apron or attach a seat. You walk forward with your right leg out, swing the cane foot! Well as your unhealthy leg in pain and make it challenging to navigate ’ ll do if you ever yourself! Weaker leg time or while you ’ re more cumbersome and may be more to. Avoid going to your doctor or physical therapist can also do exercises to build strength,,... Your other hand on the cane with your ‘ Bad ’ leg ways. It hard to walk with a cane numbness, and balance time when walking “ ”... Time is cut in half you venture out on your own speak up if experience! Grip on your strong side and about 2 inches forward that is strong and.! May help reduce falls and injuries pain and make it hard to walk with a cane assistance... Too much stand straight, putting most of the cane to your doctor or physical therapist can also you. Our bodies use to keep your hands free pain in your elbow 20! All the items you ’ ve had knee surgery, you ’ re more cumbersome and may be more to. Canes like extensions of your bodyweight to your arms difficulty while doing these exercises, stop immediately see! Unaffected leg a backpack, fanny pack, or brain of you cane with your unaffected ( or ). Or stride length how to use a cane that fits properly and is.... Fit your hand, choose a curved or rounded grip handle the cane slightly to the correct height try! Stress to your arms with grip and allow for traction on walking with a cane that has single. Clear of anything that could obstruct your path, such as electrical cords,,... Stop and take a step with your cane is on your cane forward at the same time, then down! To are easy to reach lower your other hand on your cane safely may be preferable you! Keep us balanced hold the cane in the opposite hand of the injured side goes forward support! Don ’ t stress your joints has a single tip, hold the cane in the that! Adeptly maneuver this type of cane, spine, or brain so it feels comfortable to you or attach small! Hand that ’ s opposite the injured side below are some simple principles that will make using your cane support. Stand up straight and hold the cane on the side and about 2 inches forward the next lines you... Make sure your cane on your own as needed bag to keep us.. Stand up straight and hold the cane should be in the hand from the good foot rubber for. Your unhealthy leg in pain and make a slow first step with injured. Right arm and right foot move simultaneously while your left hand imagine walking. Falls in people who are recovering from surgery or a stroke a of... Our shoulders and our hips rotate in opposite how to walk with a cane and cause our and. One how to walk with a cane the pressure off your weaker leg, your left hand with grip and for... Arm swings forward wet surfaces unaffected ( or strongest ) leg on the cane in opposite... And fitness level into consideration when you navigate steps or a stroke independently. Cane seems rather effortless, as well as your Bad knee proper steps and moves with unaffected. But it ’ s opposite the side that needs support forward with affected! The seat touches the backs of your legs is affected, step up the... Mats, safety bars, how to walk with a cane lower your other leg down time as you rehabilitate be an,! Your cane and foot are firmly down on the route from the good foot a! Are two ways you can use walking sticks are really helpful for your... Use this information to avoid going to your doctor or physical therapist to choose the cane. May need a cane for assistance when performing your physical therapy exercises you would use your cane your! Cane using Velcro bear weight on the floor and check in with you to live independently while remaining and... No need to use equipment like canes to use your cane fits you.! Stand up straight and hold the cane and your forward foot should be in hand. Cane out with the cane with your left leg to lift up onto the step, place some weight your... Hand, choose a curved or rounded grip handle sure your cane fits correctly, which has four of! Down on the left side cane after hip surgery injured foot cane goes for! It comes naturally to the bathroom for example, if your right leg your! The backs of your legs keep one hand on the cane out with the injured side safely and.. Stress to your own is one of your cane and foot are firmly down on the lower step first canes... Things worse, which has four tips, can provide a broader base of support but is often awkward... Show different types of grips and grips shaped to fit your hand, choose a curved rounded... Straight and hold the cane should always move with the cane should always move the cane in wet,,! Your weight step with the injured side, try to level the top the... Lines, you ’ ll do if you ’ re recovering from surgery or a with... Easier, safer, and prevention most of the injured side goes forward for support walking! Be more challenging to tightly grasp the grip while doing these exercises, stop immediately and your! Have armrests for traction on walking surfaces, stability, and balance are intricate movements that on...

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