The need for Walking Canes For Women and Men can begin with a small – barely distinguishable – limp, the onset or progression of arthritis or as the result of the aftermath to a fall or as part of a post surgery rehabilitation protocol. Whatever the circumstances, protecting balance, stability and mobility are always the top priorities as the net-effect of favoring one leg over the other can quickly cascade into a multitude of other painful – or mobility-reducing – maladies.
Most often, the first line of defense is an ASSISTIVE WALKING CANE FOR WOMEN & MEN.
Get Best Walking Canes For Women & Men
There are many questions you should contemplate – and some not necessarily obvious considerations – that should be part of your thought process prior to making a purchasing decision for best Walking Canes For Women & Men.
First let’s break down the primary structural components of a cane – all of which should will play an important role in your decision making process and ultimate satisfaction:
4 Key Components to an Assistive Walking Canes For Women & Men:
The Cane Handle
When purchasing a cane, comfort is a primary consideration and the handle you choose plays the dominant role here. Namely, the goal is to achieve a stable, comfortable grip. If you experience hand or joint pain, grip selection is all the more critical. Before you purchase, please take these key questions into consideration:
- Are your hands small or large? If you have difficulty achieving a tight, solid grip – sizing up to a larger grip can help compensate for this deficiency.
- Do you feel you would benefit from extra padding? The addition of foam or padding is the best way to relieve pressure on your hands.
- Should you purchase a cane with an ergonomically shaped grip? Many times the answer here is a simple, resounding yes because there are ever-improving handle designs that help insure the best possible weight distribution.
The Cane Collar
The collar is the top of the cane – between the handle and the shaft. In many cases, this is purely decorative but it can play a more structural role.
- When purchasing a cane, please do not overlook asking about this feature.
- Bottom line – the collar of an assistive cane can add strength and support the shaft – this is important.
- One of the purchasing pitfalls to avoid is reducing any chance that the shaft might ever split or break-off.
The Cane Shaft
In many ways, your decision regarding the shaft of your cane, is most important – especially in terms of weight and durability.
The most common material choices for an assisted cane include traditional wood, a variety of metal composites namely aluminum or steel and something known as carbon fiber.
- Aluminum is a popular “all weather” choice – especially in terms of being lightweight, water resistant as well as non-corrosive.
- Steel canes can provide even greater strength and durability.
- Topping the list in terms of durability is carbon fiber.
- One of your key purchasing considerations should be in-and-around the topic of bendability. Carbon fiber is the least bendable material which is a huge plus if your greatest concern is stability.
The Cane Ferrule
First, let’s define a ferrule. This is the tip of the cane. The ferrule is often made of rubber and is designed for maximum traction. The most common ferrule is referred to as a ridged-rubber stopper. Generally, there are a variety of color choices. When purchasing a cane you should definitely also ask about:
- Alternate ferrule choices? There are fancier – more decorative – brass ferrules as well as ferrules constructed in a variety of metal-materials.
- Be sure to ask about how easy it is to remove and replace the ferrule?
- Also inquire about wear and tear?
- You should also consider purchasing an extra set of ferrules so you have these handy at the precise time you need vs. having to order, wait for delivery or venture out to a medical supply store just for this purpose.
Variety of Walking Canes For Women & Men You to Consider
We strongly urge you to ask your doctor or physical / occupational therapist for a recommendation among the following 3 choices:
- The Standard Cane – generally this cane has a T-shaped handle but it is not designed to bear significant weight. If balance is your single primary issue, this cane may suffice.
- The Offset Cane – this is an ideal choice if you suffer from a weak hand grip or if you need to make certain your weight can be properly supported. Another distinction of the Offset Cane is that the shaft is designed with a degree of minimal outward bendability that can be helpful in predetermined instances.
- The Multiple-legged Cane – if you require a cane that offers significant support in terms of managing your stability even on flat surfaces – this may be the best choice.
Please Remember to Inquire about a Wrist Strap for your Assistive Walking Cane:
- Today, most canes come equipped with a basic wrist strap.
- Often, the wrist strap can be changed or customized.
- There are manufacturers who afford you the opportunity to choose a strap in a pattern or embossed leather – if this is something you like then it’s a simple way to personalize your cane.
Weather and Climate are also Considerations when Purchasing a Walking Cane:
- It is wise to ask about climate considerations at the time of purchase.
- If you live in a cold, snow or ice-prone area, you definitely want to make sure the cane you purchase is made of materials that are not affected by extreme cold and that the ferrule on your cane is safe for extreme weather conditions.
- Similarly, if you live in a hot, humid climate, you want to make sure that your cane can easily withstand sweltering heat and humidity.
How you Assure the Best Fit for an Assistive Walking Cane For Women & Men:
It seems obvious but is worth underscoring the fundamental importance of fit!
It goes without saying that a cane that is either too short or too long can create new physiological problems.
- If you are measuring on your own, do not guess – please use an actual measuring tape.
- Stand up as straight as possible and put on your normal walking shoes.
- If your left leg is impaired, your cane needs to be fit for your right hand and vice versa.
- The top of your cane should line up directly with the crease in your wrist.
- To achieve this, first let your arm hang straight down by your side then carefully measure the distance between your wrist and the floor/ground.
- It is important to keep an eye on your elbow – there should be a comfortable approximately 15 degree elbow-bend for optimal comfort.
- Of course, 15 degrees is difficult to measure precisely so the best way to interpret this is to aim for a slight elbow bend.
What About the Ease and Practicality of a Folding Walking Cane?
- Without question, a folding cane can be highly convenient if you are taking it on an airplane, sitting in a restaurant etc.
- If you are interested in a folding cane, we suggest you consider purchasing a folding cane for the instances when you need one and relying on a non-folding cane for everyday use.
- If this is not possible and you believe you have enough occasions to use a folding cane, simply be sure that the cane you purchase is easy to open and close as the last thing you need is to be frustrated or wrestling with your cane.
Assisted Walking Cane Innovation
It’s true. Assisted Walking Canes For Women & Men are getting smarter!
Yes, it’s already possible to purchase Assistive Walking Canes with LED lights built in, alarms, sensors and magnetic features that make it easy to hang your cane vs. placing it on the floor or simply propping it up. There are also Dual-Cane options – yes, 2 canes, one for each hand. And Quad canes.
Final Suggestions On Purchasing Walking Canes For Women & Men
- Please consult your medical provider for recommendations and support as you narrow down your precise needs.
- Please see if you are eligible to receive a medical prescription for your Assistive Walking Cane as many insurance plans (including Medicare) may cover this expense.
- Please check the return policy on your cane should there be any unforeseen issues with size or comfort.
- Highly Mobile’s #1 piece of purchasing advice is always safety first. Please ask questions to determine the safest choice for you in terms of style, materials and accessories.
