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Parts of a Quad Cane

A quad cane is often used by patients with ambulatory and balance deficits who require more support than a regular cane but do not require a walker. Unlike a usual cane that has only one point of contact with the floor, a quad cane has four tips, three to four inches apart, arranged in a square pattern. Because a quad cane has more points of contact than a regular cane, it provides more stability and balance to users.

  1. Handle

    • Quad cane handles vary according to the manufacturer's design, the patient's weight, the patient's strength and any hand issues that may be present, such as advanced arthritis. The general design features a hard plastic cane handle set at a 90-degree angle to the shaft of the cane. Quad canes are also offered with foam-covered handles or larger and wider handles that allow more palm pressure during ambulation. One manufacturer advertises a rotating handle, said to make ambulation more natural.

    Wand

    • The second part of a quad cane is the wand, the area between the handle and the base. Less expensive quad canes are available in only a standard length. Most have an adjustable wand so you can modify the length to your height and best meet your needs. Be absolutely certain that any adjustment to the length of the cane is secure and will not collapse when you place your weight upon it during ambulation.

    4-Prong Base

    • Quad canes have a four-prong base. This base provides more support and balance than a regular cane because of the greater number of points-of-contact with the floor. Some quad cane bases are larger squares than a generic quad cane, providing a larger area of support. Others offer an adjustable feature allowing you to minimize or maximize the area of the four-point quad square base. Some quad canes are designed with two prongs on either side, fused in a curved form similar to a rocking chair rocker that mimic a walking motion.

    Overall Construction

    • Most quad canes are made of anodized aluminum which makes them lightweight without compromising safety. On average, they usually weigh one-and-a-half pounds, although canes for heavier individuals weigh more. Generic model canes can be adjusted by removing a wing-nut and telescoping the cane to achieve the desired length. With more expensive quad canes, the length can be adjusted with the push of a button.

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