How To Walk With A Cane Correctly

Did you know that using a cane isn’t just for injuries? While most folks who are wondering how to walk with a cane are doing so because they are hurt, some merely like the look and feel of having a cane.

There’s nothing wrong with using a cane even when you are not injured. In fact, even for folks with completely functional legs, a cane can help with balance and weight distribution.

This is why you sometimes see hikers using a cane while hiking a moderate to steep trail. The cane helps them balance the backpack they are carrying, and it also helps them with endurance. Hikers who use canes find they are able to hike for longer periods because they aren’t as exhausted as they would be without the help of a cane.

If you are perfectly healthy and want to use a cane, you can do so with the cane in either hand. Many people, however, find it easiest to hold the cane in the dominant hand.

Why Canes Are Beneficial To So Many

For injured folks, walking with a cane the right way is important. If you use the cane correctly you will lessen the chance of re-injury, and at the same time allow your injured leg time to heal.

Of course, folks don’t need to have an acute injury to need a cane. People with arthritis often benefit from using a cane, especially when the arthritis is in the knees or back. In fact, anyone who has occasional problems with balance when they walk will most likely benefit from learning how to walk with a cane.

Before you work on your walking technique, make sure your cane is the proper length. You want the handle of the cane to be even with your wrist. A cane that is either too big or too small will interfere with your balance. Thankfully, many canes are adjustable.

How To Walk With A Cane Correctly

You should hold the cane in the hand that is opposite your injured or weakest leg. For instance, if it is your right knee that has arthritis and is weak and painful, hold the cane in your left hand.

Move the cane in sync with your injured leg. So when you extend your right leg while you are taking a step, the cane in your left hand is brought forward as well.

What you want to do is have the cane carry the weight that your hurt leg cannot. In the beginning, this might take some getting used to. Don’t get discouraged. Practice on a flat surface in your home or driveway. Most people find that 10 or 15 minutes of practice is more than enough to master walking with their new cane.

Using Stairs With A Cane

A helpful phrase to remember when it comes to stairs is ‘up with the good and down with the bad.’ What that means is this: the easiest way to climb up stairs is by stepping with your good leg first, then your injured leg, and then the cane.

What this does is make sure all your weight is never being put on your injured leg.

When you go down stairs, do the opposite. Move the cane to the next step, then your weak leg, and then your good leg. Once again, you are letting the cane carry your weight as opposed to the injured or weaker leg.