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Proper Fitting of a Walking Cane

As people grow older, they often find it more difficult to walk. Walking canes provide assistance for those with mobility problems. Walking cane users have to fit their cane correctly in order to guarantee comfort and prevent injury. A person can get a good fit by following standard fitting guidelines and selecting cane handles that are easy and safe to grip.

  1. Cane Handle

    • Cane handles are available in many different shapes and sizes. Before you do any sizing with the cane itself, make sure you have the handle you want on the cane, since the cane handle may make a difference with how long the cane is. The handle should fit comfortably in your hand and be easy to grip. If you have problems with gripping, a wider handle may be more practical.

    Posture and Shoes

    • You can get a rough idea of what length of cane you need simply by assuming that the cane needs to be at least half of your total height. Standing up straight gives a better idea of how tall you really are and thus gives a better cane fitting. Before measuring your height, wear comfortable shoes that you plan to wear regularly while using the cane, since the sole of a shoe will add length.

    Side

    • Have the person taking your measurements measure on the side opposite of your injury or mobility issue. Canes are used on the opposite side because doing so places less pressure on the injured leg or hip.

    Wrist

    • Place the cane handle down on the floor on the side opposite your injury. The tip (bottom) of the cane, including the rubber tip, should come to the middle of your wrist, or between the two main wrist creases. To fit the cane, simply make a mark on the cane shaft where the cane lines up with the middle of the wrist. This will be the point where you'll need to cut. Letting the arms hang limply and naturally during the measuring process will give a more accurate fit.

    Shoulder and Arm Angle

    • With the cane in the hand in which it will be used, look at your shoulders in a mirror, or have someone look at them for you. Both shoulders should be even. If the shoulder of the hand and arm holding the cane is higher than the other, you need to shorten the cane some more. When you use the cane, the elbow also should not be flexed more than 25 degrees.

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