Cane

The cane is used for various diseases of the legs, as well as for complications of human movement. She becomes a real assistant, on whom you can rely in the truest sense of the word.

This device can not only protect its owner and protect it from falling, but also emphasize its individuality. Modern walking sticks stand out for their variety – exquisite handles, engravings and a wide range of colors. The choice depends not only on criteria such as safety and reliability, but also on convenience and original appearance.

What is a cane?

A cane is a special support that supports the weight of a person while walking. Thanks to her, body weight is distributed and focused not on the legs, but on the arm and collarbone.

When choosing such a design, first of all, you must be guided by your growth. You need to make measurements of growth and suitable supports, you should choose only those that clearly fit in size.

While there are many different types, all clubs have similar components. At the top of the cane is a handle or handle. It is important that it fits you well and that you feel comfortable when walking.

Next is the collar that surrounds the area attached to the shaft. Sometimes this piece is made of fancy material or engraved with the person’s initials. The shaft is a long enclosing support and can be made from wood, metal, carbon fiber polymer, and other materials.

Some shafts are foldable for easy portability. For safety reasons, it is important that it is the correct length.

At the very bottom is a tip. It is usually covered with rubber to keep the stick stable on the ground. In some sticks, the tip can be removed and replaced with an “ice pick” for better grip in icy conditions.

Sometimes there are four such structures below, instead of one. Keeping the tip in good condition is vital to safe walking. These components come in a wide variety of types and styles, and are designed to meet a person’s needs, as well as wishes regarding their style and image.

Types of canes

The next step is to think carefully about the type of cane that works best for you. Before considering the many different features of the stick style, such as color or patterns, it is necessary to determine which variety best suits your security needs:

• straight;
• complex;
• hook-shaped;
• square.

Straights focus on maintaining balance and come with a single base point, usually in the form of a removable/replaceable rubber tip. Straight canes often have a rounded handle and are made of wood or lightweight aluminum. Inexpensive poles are made in one piece, usually from wood, or an aluminum shaft that can be adjusted in height.

Collapsible, usually height-adjustable, they can be folded into sections for easy storage. Another type of this design is with an aluminum tube shaft and a strong tension rope inside. It will stack with each section transitioning securely into the bottom section.

Forked cane in the shape of a letter “J” with a shaped handle – such devices are designed to provide balance and comfort, especially if you have problems with your wrist and you cannot hold the cane firmly. This greatly assists the individual in distributing body weight over the shaft for increased comfort. It also has more height adjustment options and removable/replaceable rubber tips.

Square or wide canes focus on balance and comfortable walking, especially on sidewalks. Quadrangular fixtures provide additional stability support. Such structures have four points resting on the ground. It also allows you to let go of the square cane without worrying that it will fall to the ground. These designs come with large square bases or mini fours, both of which offer extra support for the user.

If the device is selected for a person with a small weight, then such a cane will probably not work.

Individuals over 250 pounds who require additional support for their body weight should look into barium canes. When in doubt, it is advisable to consult a physician or physical therapist for the recommended type or style of construction.

Why do you need a cane?

The cane is a support for the whole body, it is able to adjust and distribute the weight in such a way that the body does not overwork when walking. The device is necessary in the presence of a number of symptoms associated with the legs and in the postoperative period.

This device can be used both as a temporary support and on a permanent basis:

• with arthritis;
• with pain in the knees;
• with a fracture or dislocation;
• in the postoperative period;
• for chronic foot problems.

In practice, the cane is used for various reasons. The first is illness and the rehabilitation period. The second is that the person is in normal health, but walking requires a little extra balance support (senile disorder of the locomotor system, as an example). In such a case, the doctor will say that a cane is the easiest walking aid to use for support. This should help improve balance outside the home.

Efficiency and safety

Walking sticks come in many varieties. Material, color and design style are a matter of preference for everyone. However, type and size affect function and safety.

When used correctly, balance is improved and the risk of falling is reduced by expanding the base of support, as well as reducing weight on the joints of the lower body. The most common styles are single-point and four-point or three-point canes.

Most people with arthritis only need single-point canes, while those with neurological impairments are best suited for four-point canes (they can give them more stability).

When choosing a cane, put on your normal walking shoes and place your hands at your sides. The top or hook of the cane should hit your wrist. If the stick is too high, you won’t get the support you need, if it’s too low, you’ll fall.

Proper use when walking

People often try to use the cane on their weak side. It is not right. It is worth doing everything exactly the opposite. The application of this support should be in the hand opposite your weak side, that is, keep it near your strong leg. This results in an even weight distribution. When you walk with the support, place it about 2 inches in front or to the side (but not in the front). Move the injured leg and cane together so that each side shares the load.

Proper use on stairs

To climb stairs, move your good leg first. Watch the affected part and the cane at the same time. After descending the stairs, start with the instrument, then put the weak leg forward and follow with the good leg.

You may be amazed at the many different types and shapes that are available today. The most important thing is to pay attention to the security function. If it is difficult to determine the type, then you should consult with professional consultants. For safety reasons, for people with chronic foot problems and those who cannot support their weight, a square cane is most suitable. For those to whom convenience is above all, the folding design will be the best option.

Although doctors strongly recommend the use of a cane to relieve leg pain, many patients are unwilling to even consider using one. They believe that canes not only spoil the appearance of a person, but are also unsafe for health. Someone is embarrassed by this, it brings discomfort to someone, but in fact, over time, this device becomes a common thing and is perceived as the most reliable and high-quality support.