If you are recovering from an injury or treating a leg that hurts, a cane can help you not lose mobility. Here are some tips for choosing and using this useful walking aid.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Holding and Using Sticks
Step 1. Assess how much help you need
Canes are the minor aid for walking, and transfer weight to the wrist or forearm. They are generally used to aid in recovery from minor injuries or to improve your balance. A cane cannot and should not carry much of your body weight.
Step 2. Choose the style you prefer
There are sticks of different shapes, to satisfy the needs of those who use them. Variables to evaluate include:
- Grip. Some sticks need to be held with your palm and fingers, while others offer support for your forearm as well. Whichever grip you choose, make sure it is firm and appropriate, not slippery or too big.
- Auction. The shaft is the long part of the stick, and can be made from wood, metal, carbon fiber polymer, and other materials. Some rods are telescopic, to facilitate the transport of the stick.
- Tip. The tip of the stick is usually made of rubber, to increase its stability. Some sticks have three or four points instead of one; this allows them to bear more weight.
- Color. While many are plain or bare, you don't have to settle for a nondescript gray cane if you don't like it. You may find a customizable one that appeals to your personality.
Step 3. Check the length
To choose the right one for a cane, stand with your shoes on and your arms at your hips. The top of the club should reach the hollow of the bottom of the wrist. If the stick is the right size, your elbow will be bent 15-20 degrees when you hold the stick upright.
- The length of the stick should usually be half the height of the wearer when wearing shoes. Use this as a reference.
- If your cane is too low, you will have to bend over to reach it. If your cane is too high, you will need to force on the injured limb to use it. Avoid both of these possibilities. A stick of the perfect size will allow you to stay erect while supporting your weight.
Step 4. Hold the stick using the hand that is on the same side as the "good" leg
It will seem counterintuitive to you, but this is the correct use. If your left leg hurts you should hold the stick with your right hand and vice versa.
- Because? When we walk, we move our feet and hands at the same time. A step with the left foot corresponds to a forward movement of the right hand, and vice versa. Holding a cane in the hand opposite the injury helps replicate this natural arm movement, giving your hand the opportunity to absorb some of your weight as you walk.
- If you are using a cane for more balance, you can use it with your non-dominant hand to continue using the other for daily activities.
Step 5. Start walking
When you step forward with the injured leg, move the club forward at the same time, and divide the weight between these two supports, putting less weight on the leg. Don't use the stick to step with the good leg. When you get used to using the cane, it will feel like a natural extension of you.
Step 6. To climb stairs with a cane, place one hand on the railing (if present) and put the cane in the other
Take the first step with your good leg, then bring the injured leg to the same step. Repeat.
Step 7. To go down the stairs with a cane, place one hand on the railing (if present) and put the cane in the other
Take the first step with the stick and the injured leg, then bring the sound leg forward. Repeat.
Method 2 of 2: Holding and Using Crutches
Step 1. Assess how much help you need
If you cannot put any weight on an injury, such as after knee or foot surgery, you will need one or two crutches (preferably two, for added stability). They will support your weight better than sticks, and allow you to walk with one leg.
Step 2. Find the right height
Most crutches are worn under the forearm or under the armpits. Once your doctor has advised you which one to use, you will only have to worry about their size. For armpit crutches, the top should be a few inches below the shoulder, and the grips should be at hip height.
Step 3. Start walking
Place both crutches in front of you about 30 cm, and lean forward slightly. Move as if you were taking a step with your injured leg, then shift your weight onto the crutches and use them to swing forward. Land on the sound leg, keeping the injured leg off the ground so as not to put any weight on it.
Step 4. Learn how to sit and stand up using crutches
Place both crutches in the hand on the side of the sound leg, as if they were a long, sturdy cane. Slowly lower or stand up, using crutches to find balance.
Step 5. Learn how to go up or down stairs with crutches
Start by placing both crutches under one arm, parallel to the floor. Then, try hopping up or down the stairs with your good leg, using the railing as an aid.
Alternatively, you can lay the crutches on the steps, sit, and carry them up with you, using your good leg to sit on the next step
Advice
- You will need to periodically replace the rubber under the sticks and crutches. You will find spare parts in many pharmacies.
- Try to look straight ahead and not down at your instrument. This way you will keep your balance better.
- Always carry your cane or crutches with you.
- Discuss your options with a doctor, and ask for the type of solution that is best for you.
- If you are suffering from a chronic injury that is too severe for a cane, you can try using walkers.
- A trolley is an efficient way to carry items around the house, and can act as a support.
Warnings
- Check the grips and rubber tips often.
- Be especially careful around children and small animals. They can move fast and be difficult to see.
- Make sure the floor is clear to avoid falls.
