Quick Answers
Consider your needs: Determine if you need support, balance, or a trendy accessory. Assess if lightweight or sturdy is more suitable based on your health condition.
Assess your mobility: Evaluate your movement capabilities and whether you need an adjustable height or a handle for additional support or item holding.
Choose the right handle: Select a handle that suits your needs, like a Derby handle for easy grip or orthopaedic handles for joint discomfort, adapting to the shape of your hand.
As a mobility aid and a source of support, canes and walking sticks have a long and storied history. The use of canes by those unable to walk without support has a long and illustrious history. With so many possibilities, each with its design and set of functions, you might need help to choose which would work best for you. In this piece, we’ll go over tips for picking out a walking stick that’s practical but also safe, cosy, and adjustable to your specific requirements.
Top Walking Sticks
Consider Your Needs
The first thing you should consider while shopping for a walking stick is the specific criteria you have for one. Do you wear it for support and balance, or think of it as a trendy accessory? Have you recently been in a car accident or need surgery? Do you suffer from an illness that is long-lasting and needs regular treatment? Can you benefit more from a lightweight and easy-to-handle cane, or would you prefer one that is strong enough to support your weight but not as cumbersome?
Assess Your Mobility
The extent of your movement is yet another important factor to consider. Can you walk over long distances, or do you need a cane that has a height that you can adjust to fit the needs of different people? Tell me if you need help holding items or if you think you could benefit from a cane with a longer handle if you need to help grasping things. Are you looking for a cane that is either sturdy and can be used as a seat or a cane that folds up simply and can be put away?
Choose the Right Handle
A walking stick’s handle is an important component you must consider. Various styles of handles each have their advantages and are well suited to meet certain requirements. For example, the Derby handle is easy to grip and won’t slide out of your hands, making it an excellent option for those with arthritis or weak hands. Orthopaedic handles, on the other hand, have a larger surface area and are typically curved to match the shape of the hand. This makes them a useful solution for those who suffer from joint discomfort or have weak hands since they can better adapt to the shape of the hand.
Try Before You Buy
It’s important to try out different types of walking sticks before purchasing. You can try them out at a store or borrow one from a friend or family member to see which one feels most comfortable. This will also allow you to see how the cane feels when used and how it affects your balance and mobility.
Get Professional Advice
If you are still determining the kind of walking stick that will serve your requirements the best, it is in your best interest to seek the guidance of an expert. Your primary care physician or a physical therapist can walk you through choosing a cane that satisfies your support needs and is safe and simple to manoeuvre on your own accord.
Summary Of How To Choose A Walking Stick
In conclusion, choosing a walking stick can be a daunting task. Still, you’ll find one that best suits your needs by considering your needs, assessing your mobility, determining the right handle, trying before you buy and getting professional advice. A comfortable and safe walking stick can help you maintain independence and improve your overall quality of life.
