Parts of a Cane or Walking Stick
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A cane or walking stick has four main parts: |
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The handle can be
almost any shape but is usually a knob. L shaped, crutch, opera T pistol
grip or hook. |
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The shaft is the
straight part of the cane (though it may be twisted or bent) and although
usually made of wood or metal, can be made of bone, bamboo, or plastic |
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The collar attaches
the handle to the shaft and is usually a band of metal |
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The ferrule or tip is
the end of the can. It is usually made of copper and other metals or
rubber. It protects the tip of the cane from wear and tear. |
Uses for a Cane or Walking
Stick
Medical reasons to use a cane: |
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*Canes provide support and stability |
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| *Canes improved balance. |
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| *Canes take stress and pain from the legs and feet. |
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| *Canes provide safety and security for those afraid of
falling |
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| *Canes promote independence |
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| Other reasons to carry a cane: |
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Canes are useful as a hook for reaching things |
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Canes provide protection |
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Canes are a tool for hikers |
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Canes are attractive and fun to carry |
| Using a Cane or Walking Stick |
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*Hold the cane of your strong side or. |
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*Hold the cane opposite your weaker or painful leg
Move the cane opposite leg together. |
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| Climbing stairs: |
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First step up with the strong leg. |
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Pushing up, move the cane and the weak leg to that same
step. |
| Going down stairs: |
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First step down with the cane and weak leg. |
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Using the cane for support, lower the strong leg to the
same step. |
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| Safety Tips: |
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Check cane often for wear. |
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Does it have a good, strong tip? |
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In the winter add an ice pick. |
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Be sure cane is the correct height |
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Make sure the cane is sturdy- should it have a base,
stronger shaft, etc.? |
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Is there enough strength and co-ordination to use a cane? |
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Consult a doctor or physical therapist if you have any
doubts about the cane or its use. |
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Sizing a Cane |
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Turn the cane upside down and put the handle on the
floor. |
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Stand with your arms at your sides. |
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The tip of the cane should be at the level of your wrist.
You might be more comfortable 1" shorter or 1" taller. |
| To Adjust Wooden Canes: |
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*With the cane is upside down, mark the cane at the level
of the wrist. |
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| *Remove the rubber tip. |
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| *Cut the cane 1/2-inch shorter than the marked spot. |
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| *Replace rubber tip. |
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| To Adjust Aluminum Canes: |
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Most aluminum canes have holes and pins to adjust within
one inch of the desired height. |
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Loosen the button on the shaft of the cane by pushing in.
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Press button on cane shaft and lengthen the cane to a
comfortable height. |
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The height should come up to the crease your wrist. tip |
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Align the adjustment hole over the button so that it pops
out.
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| Benefits of Aluminum Canes: |
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*Are very light |
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| *Have height adjustments |
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| *Accurate fit easily obtained |
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| *Can be fitted with a wide base or extra legs for greater
stability |
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| Benefits of Traditional Wooden
Canes: |
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Are heavier |
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Can be height adjusted, but can not be made taller |
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Have infinite possibilities for style |
| Tips at the end of the cane: |
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Provide traction |
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Absorb shock |
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Suction cups can grip the floor |
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Rubber and metal tips grip the ice |
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Stabilizers can help with balance |
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