Healthy aging

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Checking the fit

Many canes are adjustable, but some are not. To make sure your cane fits you properly:

• Check your elbow bend. With the cane in your hand, your elbow should bend at a comfortable angle, about 15 degrees. You might bend your elbow slightly more if you're primarily using the cane for balance.
• Check your wrist height. With your arm hanging straight down at your side, the top of your cane should line up with the crease in your wrist.

If your cane is too long, you'll need to work harder to pick it up and move it. If your cane is too short, you might lean to one side — which can throw you off balance.

1. Falls and older adults: Frequently asked questions. National Institute on Aging. http://nihseniorhealth.gov/falls/printerFriendly.html?selectedTopics=selectTopic&faqs=Frequently+Asked+Questions&print=Confirm+print+selection. Accessed Nov. 4, 2010.
2. How to use crutches, canes, and walkers. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00181. Accessed Nov. 19, 2010.
3. Van Hook FW, et al. Ambulatory devices for chronic gait disorders in the elderly. American Academy of Family Physicians. 2003;67:1717.
4. Canes and walkers. The AGS Foundation for Health in Aging. http://www.healthinaging.org/public_education/tools/10_canes_walkers.pdf. Accessed Nov., 19, 2010.
5. Lam R. Choosing the correct walking aid for patients. Canadian Family Physician. 2007;53:2115.
6. Allet L, et al. Effect of different walking aids on walking capacity of patients with poststroke hemiparesis. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. 2009;90:1408.
7. Madson TJ (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Dec. 2, 2010.