Imagine yourself walking with your arms swinging by your sides. Even though your cane is on your stronger side, move it along with your weaker leg. For example, if you have an injured right knee, hold the cane with your left hand. The following slides show different types of grips and ways to make sure your cane fits you correctly. Here's how and whom it may help, as well as how it works and precautions to consider before…, Researchers in Sweden have been studying a new type of mind-controlled prosthetic arm that could drastically improve the lives of people who’ve lost a…, We did the work to vet some of the best electric shavers available for men so you don't have to spend hours comparing your options and can get closer…, A new mattress won't cure sleep apnea. Stand up straight and hold the cane in one hand with the "foot" of the cane firmly on the floor. Create a safe environment in your house and get plenty of practice completing your daily tasks so that you can go about your days with greater ease. Basically the bottom line is this is that when you’re using a cane whether it’s a standard, or, some call it a straight cane, or if its a quad cane or something like that, you’ll want to use it in the opposite hand of your bad knee/leg. While we're all…. Doctor Jo is a licensed Physical Therapist and Doctor of Physical Therapy; however, she is not YOUR Physical Therapist and can't possibly diagnose you through the Internet. How to Walk with a Cane After you nail the cane size, comfort, and type, it’s time to start walking. In other words, if you can’t bear weight on your right leg, hold the cane in your left hand. Foam grips and grips shaped to fit your hand are also options. Put in night-lights on the route from the bedroom to the bathroom. Last medically reviewed on April 24, 2020. Talk to a physical therapist if you’d like to learn how to use a cane properly or do exercises to build body strength, balance, and stability. Being able to walk “in-step” while using a white cane is a critical safety skill that provides the cane user the most amount of reaction time possible when detecting an object or drop-off with the cane. On your upper leg there is a bone that sticks out called your greater trochanter. Use a backpack, fanny pack, or cross-body bag to keep your hands free. The cane should be in the opposite hand of the injured side. Make sure you feel fully confident before you venture out on your own. What if I still cannot take the stairs with a cane? Why should you use the cane on this side? Problems with walking can be due to disease or injury to the legs, feet, spine, or brain. Using the cane to support your weight step with your good foot in a forward direction, up to beside the cane. Here are some of…, While most of us are typically trying to limit screen time, there are definitely moments we'd love to occupy our kids with technology. When using a cane, you want the same technique so you don't risk injuring something else while you are recovering.The most important part to start with is to make sure your cane is the right height. When you place your right leg out, swing the cane out with the leg. Using a cane can help prevent a needless injury due to a fall or strain that could lengthen your recovery time if you’re healing. Then, lower the other leg and step ahead on the same step of the stairs. Learn about walking abnormalities and what causes them. One of the things you'll want to know as a nurse is how to educate your patients on how to walk with a cane. If the injured side goes forward, the cane goes forward for support. If you are not properly diagnosed, this information won't help, and it could make things worse. Hold your cane in the hand that’s opposite the side that needs support. There are two ways you can use two canes to walk. Take the first step with the injured leg and the cane at the same time, then bring down your strong leg. One important thing to note is that when you walk, the tendency may be to look down. But an adjustable mattress, or one that's comfortable for side sleeping, may be able to help. Walking Forward in 5 Steps Hold the cane in hand opposite the injured foot. Then, use that strong leg to lift up onto the step and bring the cane and your affected leg with it. The cane should be in the opposite hand of the injured side. Use The Cane In The Opposite Hand As Your Bad Knee. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It will also help prevent joint irregularities, numbness, and pain in your hand and fingers. Gait and balance are intricate movements that rely on many body areas. 8. This will help you to maneuver better. However, when walking “out-of-step” that reaction time is cut in half. In fact, a cane may make it possible for you to live independently while remaining active and mobile. Set up and organize your living space so that all the items you’ll need access to are easy to reach. Walking with a cane seems rather effortless, as if it comes naturally to the user. Talk to your doctor or physical therapist to choose the best cane for your needs. For example, if your right leg is weak, use your strong left leg to take the first step. Position the cane slightly to the side and about 2 inches forward. Using your cane to assist you, take your time when walking, and always be super careful. Step past the cane with your strong leg. If the cane is too high, you might irritate your shoulder, and if it is too low, you might lean over too much.Now for the walking part. So seriously, check with your healthcare professional before doing these techniques. You must do exercises to build strength, stability, and balance. The rubber-tipped end of your cane will help with grip and allow for traction on walking surfaces. You should have a slight bend in your elbow about 20 degrees. Wear supportive shoes that have nonslip rubber soles. To walk properly with a cane, place it beside you in the hand on your strong side (the side that did not have surgery), take a step forward with your strong leg, then move the cane forward with your weak leg as you walk. Most canes have a pin you can push in to change the height. If you’ve had knee surgery, you’ll be asked to stay active as you rehabilitate. But there are some simple principles that will make using your walking aid easier and safer. Either way, canes can make walking easier, safer, and more comfortable. Hold the cane in one hand. Your Right arm and left foot move simultaneously while your left arm and right foot move together. 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