A walking stick can be an invaluable tool in helping you to remain independent, safe, and mobile. Depending on your age and level of mobility, you may find that you could benefit from using a walking stick. However, it is important to understand the right time to start using a walking stick, as well as the types and features to look out for.
Benefits of Using a Walking Stick
Using a walking stick can help people with any level of mobility stay independent and secure in their movements. Anybody who is struggling for balance or loses energy quickly when standing or walking could benefit from using a walking stick. A walking stick can provide improved stability and security when walking over rough or slippery terrain, makes it easier and less strenuous to walk up and down hills, can help prevent falls and injuries, provide extra support when climbing stairs, and helps people with limited mobility keep up with others they are walking with.
Types of Walking Sticks
There is a wide range of types of walking sticks available. The most common are rigid aluminum, adjustable aluminum, folding, straight and one-piece. Rigid aluminum walking sticks are strong, lightweight and are readily available for purchase. Adjustable aluminum sticks allow for greater adjustability for the user and are ideal for those who wish to adjust the length of the stick for different terrains. Folding walking sticks may be ideal for those looking for portability as they can be folded away and stored easily in a bag or pocket. Straight sticks are also light in weight but are fixed lengths and thus provide less flexibility. Finally, one-piece sticks are made of one continuous piece and are often more ornamental in their design.
Who Should Use a Walking Stick?
Anyone who is older or has restricted mobility can benefit from using a walking stick. It is also recommended that people who are pregnant, have had surgery, have weak joints or have very poor balance use a walking stick. People recovering from an illness may also benefit from using a walking stick in order to keep safe and steady on their feet.
How to Determine the Right Length for a Walking Stick
It is important to select a walking stick that is the right length for you, as it should fit correctly into the arc of your stride when walking. To determine the correct length for your walking stick, stand up straight and place the stick horizontally across your chest from shoulder to shoulder. If the stick is in line with your wrist when your arm is bent at a 90-degree angle, then you have determined the correct length for your walking stick.
How to Adjust the Height of a Walking Stick
Adjustable aluminum sticks come in handy here as they allow you to adjust the height of the stick according to your needs. Each stick will have a simple adjustment lever which can be used to increase or decrease the overall height of the stick. To adjust the height, hold the walking stick in an upright position and twist the lever either clockwise or counterclockwise.
When to Replace a Walking Stick
The longevity of the walking stick depends on several factors such as how often it is used, how strong it is and what type of surfaces it is used on. You should inspect your walking stick regularly for any signs of wear or damage and replace it if necessary. It is important to note that if your walking stick breaks while you are using it, you should replace it immediately with a reliable one.
Tips for Safely Using a Walking Stick
It is essential to use the correct technique while using a walking stick. When using a single walking stick always make sure you hold it in the opposite hand to the side of your body that is carrying most weight. If you are using two sticks at once – one in each hand – it is important to keep them at an equal height when walking. When going up or down steps always take one step at a time followed by your walking stick.
How to Choose an Appropriate Handle Style for a Walking Stick
There are several different handle styles available when purchasing a walking stick. The most common are “T” handle, crook and derby handle. A “T” handle has a vertical bar that runs down the centre of the handle which makes it ideal for gripping tightly when in use. The crook handle has a flared shape which is shaped around the hand and gives support while in use. The derby handle differs from the other two styles in that it has an ergonomic design which provides extra comfort while in use.
What Are the Alternatives to Using a Walking Stick?
If you do not feel comfortable using a walking stick, then there are several alternatives available to choose from such as canes, crutches or walkers. Canes are typically single-footed and designed with either an angled handle or a “T” handle type. They offer great stability and balance to those who use them and can be used on various terrains. Crutches typically feature handles on both sides of the support frame and can offer more support than canes, but require more upper body strength than canes as you need to support more of your body weight. Walkers also offer great stability for those who need it most, however they can also be bulky and heavy and don’t always offer portability.