Healthy aging

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Stepping with the affected leg

If you use a cane for stability, you may grip it in either hand — whichever feels most comfortable. Pick up and move your cane in unison with the opposite leg. Don't place your cane too far ahead of you.

If you have an injury or disability affecting your hip, knee or ankle, your doctor or physical therapist might recommend a specific walking pattern. For example, you might hold the cane in the opposite hand of the affected leg and move the cane in unison with the affected leg. Each time you step with the affected leg, move the cane, too — to give you support as you walk. When you step forward with the unaffected leg, keep the cane in place.

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.