A walking stick can be both a temporary and permanent solution. You may only need it for a short time as you recover from an injury or accident, or it may become an ever-present companion if you suffer from a chronic and debilitating illness. In both cases, you must determine the right height to ensure correct stability and balance; by doing this you will feel safer during the movements and you will improve the quality of life. However, remember that this process is not an exact science, because personal choices must be taken into account; for this reason it considers the instructions given here only as guidelines.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Evaluating the Length of the Club
Step 1. Determine your height
If you don't have a tape measure and want to order your cane online, then you need to evaluate its size using your height as a general guide. A person around 190-197cm tall should order a 95cm stick, while a 180-187cm individual should choose a 92.5cm device. In general, the length of the stick should drop 2.5 cm for every 7.5 cm of height less than the values indicated above. According to these calculations, therefore, a person with the stature of 164-167 cm should use an 87.5 cm cane.
Many sticks are height adjustable, but not all models (especially those that have been carved from a piece of wood)
Step 2. If you are of average height, you should use a 90cm cane
Since most men have an average stature between 170 and 177cm, most clubs are made or adjusted to 90cm. For this reason, some manufacturers send a device of this length to the customer, unless the customer specifies a different value.
If you walk with a cane that is too long or too short, you will probably experience greater pain especially in the elbow, shoulder and neck
Step 3. Borrow a cane from someone about your height
If a friend or family member of your height has temporarily needed this device while recovering from an accident or injury, then you can ask them to lend it to you or sell it to you. If he has chosen the correct cane for his height and is wearing shoes similar to yours, then his tool may be suitable for you too.
When trying to compare the length of the stick to your height, remember that the heels of the shoes you usually use are a determining factor, as you will most likely not use the device barefoot
Part 2 of 3: Be More Precise
Step 1. Use a tape measure
The most accurate technique for determining the correct length of a walking stick is to measure the distance between your hand and the ground. Remember that you must wear the shoes you usually wear. Leave your arm extended at your side, the handle of the cane should line up with the crease of your wrist. In other words, the length of the device must correspond to the distance between the wrist and the ground.
When using the correct walking stick, your elbow should be bent at a comfortable angle, approximately 15 °. A slightly larger angle is considered acceptable if you are using the device only to maintain balance and not as a partial support of your weight
Step 2. Use a different measurement technique if you have a hunched posture
If your condition does not allow you to remain fully upright, then you need to proceed with a different method of assessment. In this case it is very likely that you will need a shorter stick than the theoretical one based on your height. Then measure the distance between the floor and the point where the wrist is; put on your usual shoes and get help from a friend if needed.
If the stick was too short, then you would assume a posture leaning to one side and eventually you could lose your balance
Step 3. Get professional help
If you are having trouble finding the right size walking stick, then you should seek help from a physical therapist or orthopedist. These professionals will also recommend the most suitable material, as well as the best shape and type of grip for your situation.
Typically the stick is grabbed with the opposite hand from the injured leg, but in other cases it is held on the same side. Your doctor or physiotherapist will determine the best solution for your specific case
Part 3 of 3: Evaluating the Options
Step 1. Try sticks of different lengths
Although the measurement of the distance between the ground and the wrist is "the best indicator" to determine the length of a support of this type, you may prefer a different sized club based on many physiological factors, such as the strength of the hands, wrists., elbows or shoulders. For example, if you can't bend your elbow a lot, then it's better to go for a shorter tool.
- Try out different models of different lengths while you are in the pharmacy, orthopedics shop or doctor / physiotherapist's office. This way you can determine the exact size for your particular condition.
- Choose a model based on its functionality, but also on your personal preferences.
Step 2. Evaluate how you will use the cane
Many people carry this device with them for better balance (especially when walking on unstable or slippery surfaces), unlike those who use it to support part of their body weight. The length of the club does not have to be precise, if it is a mere tool for balancing and not a support.
- There are different types of sticks. Some have one tip, while others have four. Four-pointed poles offer more stability, but are also more difficult to use.
- Not all models are designed to bear the full weight of a person, especially obese individuals. If so, you should consider crutches or a wheelchair if you need more help.
Step 3. Choose the handle that's right for you
The sticks have different types of handles. For example, you might have a cane with a foam-coated handle and a cuff that fits around your arm. You may want to get one with a larger handle instead, so it is easier for you to hold on to it.
Try holding several handles to see which one you feel most comfortable
Step 4. Don't overlook the tip
Walking sticks typically have a rubber or plastic end that provides a secure footing, but at the same time changes the height. When taking stick measurements, always take the tip size into consideration. Also don't forget that the tip wears over time and somehow "shortens" the stick. You must therefore replace it regularly.
- The soft rubber tips offer better traction on the floor, just like the treads ensure good grip of the wheels on the asphalt.
- When purchasing this tool, check that the rubber tip is flexible and in good condition.
Advice
- If you only need a stick to keep your balance, use a standard one with only one tip. If, on the other hand, you need one to partially support the weight, you should choose a four-pointed model.
- The choice of the stick handle is a completely personal matter, but if you have problems grasping objects with your fingers (for example due to arthritis), you should opt for a model that has a large one covered in foam rubber.
- When walking with a cane holding it in the opposite hand from the "weak" leg, remember that it should be resting on the ground at the same time as the opposite foot.
