Using a Cane

A cane helps you get around on your own. Many different canes are available. The most common type has a single tip. But if you have balance problems, your healthcare provider may recommend that you use a quad (four-point) cane. Always use your cane on the stronger (uninjured or unaffected) side, unless told otherwise. Use the cane on the side opposite your weaker leg.

Walking

1.

• Put all your weight on your stronger leg.

• Find your balance.

• Move the cane and your weaker leg forward.

2.

• Support your weight on both the cane and the affected leg.

• Then step through with your stronger leg.

• Put your weight on the weaker leg and start the next step.

• When using a quad cane, place the cane so that all of the tips touch the ground.

Up stairs and curbs

• If there is a railing, hold on to it with your free hand.

• Step up with your stronger leg first.

• Then move the cane and weaker leg together as a unit.

Down stairs and curbs

• To walk down, step down with your weaker leg and the cane first.

• Then follow with your stronger leg.