Whether part of recovery or part of aging, using a cane can help you walk more easily. An adjustable cane allows you to adjust the height of the walking device as needed.
Adjustable Canes Serve You Longer
If you require a cane due to recovery from injury, you may need to adjust its height as you improve your gait. For example, in the beginning, you may need to lean more heavily on it, but as you recover the ability to walk unassisted, you can raise the height of an adjustable cane.
Without this feature, you would need to purchase a different cane to suit the new height. The feature helps in reverse as you age. When you first begin walking with a cane, you may want it for peace of mind and stability. However, as you age, you may need to lean on it heavily to support yourself because one leg decreases its functionality.
Choosing the Style of Cane
Choosing an adjustable cane doesn’t mean choosing metal or aluminum. Many medical supply stores, such as Avacare Medical, carry adjustable wood canes, too. In addition, you can choose a cane that suits your personality and matches your typical style of dress. Many medical supply stores carry themed cane tips, too, such as those shaped like a golf ball.
How To Choose Cane Height
The right cane height helps you walk better, while the wrong height can cause new problems and create a fall hazard. For example, if you set the adjustable cane to too short a length, it causes you to bend forward when trying to walk, which can cause back problems and cause you to lose balance. On the other hand, a too-tall cane causes issues, too, because it won’t provide the needed stability, plus you’ll find it harder to pick up and move it.
Fitting your cane to your height proves easy. You can do it yourself or have your physical therapist help you. First, adjust the cane so that when your arms hang down at your sides, the top of the cane lines up with the crease of your wrist. You can have your physical therapist double-check your setting with a goniometer. This device measures your elbow position when using the cane. When using a cane, your elbow should bend at a 15- to 20-degree angle.
How To Adjust Cane Height
After setting up your adjustable cane the first time, you can probably adjust it on your own. Follow these steps.
- Loosen the tension screw at or near the cane’s bottom.
- Find the small button on the side of the cane and push it into the cane.
- Slide the two lengths of the cane to shorten or lengthen it, lining it up with holes on each length.
- Depress the button to align the cane pieces to the desired height.
- Re-tighten the tension screw once you see the lock button pop up through the two holes.
Check the sturdiness of the cane’s setting before using it for walking. Ensure that both locking mechanisms of the adjustable cane are completely engaged.