Medical walking sticks are also known as canes. This common terminology is used for any type of cane a person might use for assistance with mobility, including those designed for medical reasons, such as frailty, unsteady gait or balance, certain cancers, and Alzheimer’s. Canes come in a variety of materials, shapes, and sizes to suit a person’s physical needs as well as their personal style.
Benefits of Medical Walking Sticks
Canes are valuable tools that can reduce risk associated with falls. By providing extra stability when walking on uneven terrain, people who use canes can maintain their mobility and independence in a safe manner. In addition, canes can help distribute weight off of the affected joint, reducing pressure and wear on the joint itself. This can reduce pain associated with arthritis, injuries or surgery. People who use wheelchairs or another form of mobility aid may also use a cane to increase range of motion and help with transfers.
Types of Medical Walking Sticks
There are many types of canes available for people who require extra support to maintain their mobility. Different types include folding canes, offset canes, Offset-Handle canes, Bariatric canes, Quiet Cane™ canes, Gel Grip Cane™ canes, and specialty canes (such as orthopedic or ergonomic canes). Each one is designed to address specific medical needs and symptoms.
How to Choose the Right Medical Walking Stick
When selecting a cane, it’s important to choose one that fits your body properly. A cane should be adjusted to the correct height, so that it reaches just below the users’ wrist when their arm is bent naturally at their side. To ensure optimal safety, it’s important to bring the cane to an orthopedic professional for an individualized fitting. Additionally, it’s important that the user’s weight is supported evenly. Tests for pressure points, grip strength, and walking mechanics are conducted by an expert during the fitting process.
Proper Use and Care of Medical Walking Sticks
Medical walking sticks are designed for someone’s individual needs and should be used specifically as prescribed. The cane should be inspected regularly to ensure its integrity and safety, and can help to identify any signs of damage or wear that could potentially lead to injuries. Canes should only be used indoors, on dry surfaces such as pavements and sidewalks, not on wet ground or grass. When using stairs or ramps, it’s important that someone with limited mobility also has a steady handrail or another form of support to help maintain balance.
Potential Risks and Precautions When Using a Medical Walking Stick
Canes rely on a person’s normal movement and balance to help them stand. Improper footing or turning, such as while walking on uneven surfaces or staircases can cause a person to slip or lose their balance. Heavy-duty or specialty canes are typically more stable than standard canes, so it’s important to determine the right type for individual needs. Canes should also not be used in place of another mobility aid such as a walker or wheelchair if greater support is needed. To avoid potential injuries and instability, all medical walking sticks should be used only as prescribed.
Where to Buy a Medical Walking Stick
Medical walking sticks are readily available from pharmacies, medical supply stores and online retailers. Certain retailers may offer specialized canes for individual needs. Most insurance companies cover at least some of the cost for a new cane if medically prescribed. For example, Medicare Part B covers 80-100% of the cost of walkers or canes when prescribed by a doctor or other certified medical professional.
How to Fit a Medical Walking Stick
For proper fit and function, it’s best to have a medical professional adjust and fit one’s device. When accompanied by an experienced healthcare provider, a user is securely fitted for optimum comfort and support. Some types of brace fitting require the user to stand in an upright position while the medical professional calibrates the cane while considering the user’s body composition. Prior to fitting oneself with a cane, it’s important to research the best techniques to fit the device properly.
Different Styles of Medical Walking Sticks
In terms of style, there are many different types of walking sticks available today. Straight canes are the most popular and recognizable type of cane available for users with limited mobility and range of motion problems. Handles may be made from wood or other lightweight materials and are most comfortable when the user’s palm comfortably wraps around the handle or grip portion of the cane. Some people may opt for decorative canes that offer extra support while still expressing their own individual style.
Tips for Safely Navigating with a Medical Walking Stick
Using a medically prescribed cane properly offers many advantages in terms of mobility and safety. It is essential that users take their time and use caution when navigating stairs or navigating irregular terrain with a cane. Be mindful of obstructions such as power cords or furniture when traveling through doorways or pathways. Remember to plant the cane firmly when crossing thresholds and rise or lower the cane with each step taken when ascending or descending stairs. Lastly, It is important to keep the cane within one’s line of vision to continually monitor its placement and make sure it is not placing too much pressure on the affected joint.