Canes can be functional or decorative, with four basic types to choose from. The most common is the C cane, while quad canes offer greater stability and hemiwalker canes offer the most support. When choosing a cane, consider height, weight, expected duration of use, and balance requirements. Decorative canes are also available.
Canes can serve a functional or decorative purpose. However, a functional cane can also be decorative. In most cases, people buy canes to help with walking. There are four basic types to choose from.
The most common type of walking cane, called a C cane, resembles a curved candy cane in shape. These canes are available and often chosen by people who have a minor or temporary injury or walking disability. C sticks are readily available at most drugstores and drugstores, but finding the right size can be a problem. In general, the length of the cane should not be more than one inch (2.54 cm) above the middle of the body height.
C poles usually have a rubber bottom to prevent slippage, but they don’t offer much in the way of balance control. On the other hand, functional gripping sticks offer more balance due to the shape of their handle. These canes have a straight handle, which provides a better grip than the C cane. Other than this grip, they differ little from the C cane, but a firmer grip can mean more confident walking.
Quad canes differ from C-grip and functional canes in the shape of their base. Instead of ending in a gummed point, these canes have a rectangular base, ending in four points. The quad cane offers greater stability at the base of the cane, and those with injuries or long-term impairments may want to consider this option. Quads are generally more durable than functional grip and C poles, too.
Hemiwalker canes differ from quads in that their base is much larger. Many people who are moving from a walker to a cane find these canes to be the best option. Hemi walkers offer the most support and are best considered by those with permanent injuries or conditions that affect mobility.
When choosing a cane, the user’s height and weight should be taken into account. A cane may be just the right height, but not strong enough to support the user’s weight. How long one intends to use the cane is another consideration. For long-term use, consumers should look for strong, durable canes. These cost more initially, but will probably prove more affordable over time since they won’t need to be replaced as often. Short-term cane users can probably get by with a much less expensive cane.
Decorative canes or walking sticks have enjoyed a long history. People can choose a cane to reflect a particular design that they like. Often decorative canes are a long, straight stick. The Internet and specialty stores carry many varieties of decorative canes, and if you can’t find a design you like, you can special order a particular type or design.
Canes, canes, or decorative sticks can also be functional for navigating the streets, providing a bit of balance, or walking over uneven ground. When choosing a cane of any type, consider the following: height and weight, expected duration of use, frequency of use, balance requirements, grip feel in the hand, and to what extent any decoration can reflect one’s aesthetic sensibility. Physicians and physical therapists are excellent resources for recommendations on the most appropriate personal choice.
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