How To Size & Use A Walking Stick

Many people are concerned at the prospect of using a walking stick for the first time, but understanding how to use a walking stick correctly will encourage best use, so you are able to do more and walk further. Deciding what is the proper height for a walking stick is the first step in making using your walking aid easier and safer.

With expert advice from us on some simple principles, you will be able to embrace what a walking stick can do for you. Similarly, if you’re buying a walking stick for a loved one, or trying to offer best advice to your favourite customer, let us walk you through what you need to know…….

First, what is the proper height for a walking stick?

The proper height for a walking stick is determined by YOUR body size. You should select a stick that fits you properly and is comfortable. Setting the correct height will reduce pressure on your shoulders, arms and wrists. Select an adjustable one if you want to make modifications.

How to size a walking stick

• Firstly, ensure you size a walking stick with your normal shoes on – shoe height can make quite a difference.
• Hold the stick in the hand that’s opposite the side that needs support.
• Place the base of the stick approximately on the ground 15cm from the outside of the foot, and the handle height should be set at the wrist crease height.
• The elbow should be bent slightly (generally)15 and 30 degrees) when holding the stick and standing upright.

How to use a walking stick correctly

Using a walking stick correctly, can help you properly, safely, and confidently walk.

1. Use the walking stick on your stronger side

The stick should go on the strong side and move with the weak side. Using the walking stick on the opposite side to your injury allows you to shift your weight more to the stronger side.

2. Move the walking stick with your weak leg

Think of it this way: Hold the stick on your strong side and move it along with your weak side. For example, if you have an injured right knee, hold the stick with your left hand. When you place your right leg out, swing the stick out with the leg.

3. Remember to maintain good posture

Keep your back as straight as you can. Try not to lean too far to one side or too far forward. While it is OK to put weight on the walking stick, try to keep your centre of balance close to the body. As you walk, only swing the stick as far in front of you as your leg would normally reach, so as not to overextend your arm.

4. Take on stairs with your walking stick carefully

The Basics:

• “Go up with the good, down with the bad”. When going up, lead with your strongest leg. When going down, lead with the weaker one.
• Always face forward. You’re much less stable when you’re turned sideways, especially if the staircase has no handrail.

Using a stick with a handrail: Use the stick on your side opposite the handrail. When going up, put your stronger leg on the next step first, followed by the stick and then your weaker leg. Going down, lead with the stick, followed by your weaker leg and then your stronger leg.

Using a stick without a handrail. Keep your cane on the side you would normally use it and follow the same procedure as with a handrail: good leg, cane, bad leg, going up; cane, bad leg, good leg, going down.

Most popular walking sticks

3P has a wide range of of walking sticks and hiking poles available in a variety of styles, sizes and colours.

Some of our most popular walking sticks! View our walking sticks category to see the full range of colours and sizes.

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Most useful walking stick accessories

There’s a variety of useful walking stick accessories that improve quality of life for walking stick owners including cane rests, car accessories and more.

Shop walking stick accessories

Find the right walking stick online with 3P

We would all like to be physically strong, self-sufficient, and fully independent, but there may come a time when you need a walking stick, be it temporarily, transitional, or constantly. Do yourself a favour- don’t fight it. Instead embrace your walking stick and what it can do for you if you select the right one, and use it correctly.

Our range of Surgical Basics walking sticks will provide you with an option to help you be more safe and independent in your daily activities.

Discover our range of walking sticks & accessories online today.