Summary:
This article gives information on the types of walking canes and sticks, how to decide which is appropriate for an individual, and how to shop for canes and walking sticks.

Details or Sample:
Canes are divided into two general categories. Walking canes are used by the elderly, persons with disabilities, and people recovering from injuries. Walking sticks (or hiking sticks) are used by hikers and campers to help keep their footing on slippery or uneven terrain. At one time canes as wardrobe accessories were very stylish. That’s rarely the case today. However, for many people, having a fashionable cane, often made of finely carved wood, is a welcome alternative to a purely utilitarian model. Whether you want to enjoy the outdoors or simply need to get around on a daily basis, a walking cane or stick can be your ticket to greater freedom and a healthier, more active lifestyle.

SHOPPING FOR WALKING CANES

When buying a walking cane, the first two questions to ask are: “What type of cane do you need?” and “How long should it be?” Many people shopping for walking canes are doing so for medical reasons. If this is true for you, then your doctor or physical therapist is your most important resource for answering these questions.

However, there are a variety of other sources of information. A quick search online will provide a variety of articles, and you can get even more by calling or visiting local retailers. Medical professionals can often refer you to a vendor they trust, but you should feel free to do some comparison shopping on your own.

Walking canes come in a variety of designs to meet individual needs.
1) Straight canes. This is the simplest type of cane, and provides support and help in maintaining balance.
2) Folding canes. A folding cane is a good option in situations when the cane needs to be out of the way when not in use, such as when traveling on a crowded airplane.
3) Quad canes and tripod canes have several “feet” and provide additional support and stability.
4) Some canes have special features. Canes with seats on a folding tripod allow the user to sit down when tired. A lighted cane is a good safety precaution when walking at night.

Canes should always be properly sized. The average cane needs to be about half a person’s height. For instance, if a person is 5’4” tall (64 inches) the cane will need to be adjusted to about 32 inches in length. Individuals vary, however. Your doctor or therapist can help you determine what the length of your cane should be, as can commercial dealers.

Once you know the type of cane you need, the next step is to find dealers. Many department stores and specialty shops sell canes and can be found by looking in the Yellow Pages or searching for local retailers online. Medical supply companies usually sell a full range of canes.

Budget may be a factor, although medical insurance often covers the cost of a cane. Basic canes are not expensive and retail from under $20 up to $50 or $60. Fashionable canes made of wood or glass cost more, and custom made canes can cost several hundred dollars.

SHOPPING FOR WALKING STICKS

A walking stick or hiking stick can be as short as 3 feet to as much as a foot taller than the user. Which length you choose depends on what sort of hiking you will be doing and in what kind of terrain. Otherwise, choosing a walking stick is pretty much a matter of taste. Walking sticks can be purchased off the shelf at sporting goods retailers that carry hiking and camping supplies. For many people, a walking stuck can be a personal statement, and specialty or craft vendors can be found online or in the Yellow Pages who will make a customized walking stick. While a basic walking stick is not expensive, starting from around $20, customized sticks can be quite expensive. As with any other purchase, you should do some comparison shopping before making your purchase.

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