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Walking Canes for Men

Individuals who have experienced a decrease in personal mobility may be able to regain their ability to walk on their own with the assistance of a cane. The cane carries some of the weight of the individual, taking the pressure off of the leg that struggles to support the full body weight.

  1. Sizing

    • A properly sized cane is essential for getting the best results; a cane that is too short will not provide enough support but a cane that is too long will cause discomfort in the arm holding it. Stand with your arms relaxed at your side while wearing walking shoes; then measure the distance from the ground to your wrist. This is the ideal height for the handle of your cane.

    Walking

    • When walking with a cane it is used as assistance for your weak leg by moving it at the same time. The cane can be held in whichever hand is more comfortable and provides the most control over the cane. First step forward with your stronger leg, using the cane to help support your weight as you lift up your stronger leg. Once your weight is transferred to your stronger leg, step forward with the supported leg and cane at the same time.

    Stairs

    • When using the cane to climb stairs, always place both feet on each step as you progress up. Step onto the next step up with your stronger leg first, keeping your cane on the same level as your supported leg. Once you are comfortable with your weight on your lead leg, lift up the supported leg and cane at the same time and place them on the new stair. Adjust your weight if needed until you can support yourself on your cane and supported leg before moving to the next step.

    Using Chairs

    • To get into a chair with the help of a cane, position your back to the chair with your legs pressed against the front of the chair. Rest the cane on the arm rest then grab the arms of the chair and slowly lower yourself down. To stand, grasp the cane in your hand then place both hands at the front of the arm rests. Press up off the arm rests as you transfer your weight forward, and put down the tip of the cane when you have raised up enough, using the cane to stand up fully.

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