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What a walking stick should be. How to choose a walking stick

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H It is necessary to determine what degree of stability a person needs, because they are one supporting, three supporting and four supporting. Many people wear shoes on different platforms, so it is recommended to choose a telescopic cane with the ability to adjust for height. Walking sticks should be used both in summer and winter. Therefore, it is recommended to choose canes with an anti-slip device. In almost all models, the UPS can be extended or removed as needed. Or use specialized attachments for winter.

H In order to choose the right cane in length, you need to stand up straight, lower your arms freely and bend them slightly at the elbow (about 15-20 degrees) - while the handle of the cane should be at the level of the wrist bend line.

NS When choosing a cane, the patient should be in his usual shoes; and if he plans to wear shoes with heels of different lengths, then it is better to purchase a cane that is adjustable in height. If the cane is too long, the load on the shoulder joint increases and the body is constantly in a skewed position. If the cane is too short, the patient slouches and leans forward all the time, which increases the pressure on the nerves in the wrist.

IN The weight of a cane can vary on average from 100 to 400 grams, and it is very important that when selecting a cane, the patient determines what weight is optimal for him. If the cane is too light, it can feel unstable and unreliable. If the cane is too heavy, the supporting arm will tire more quickly.

E If you plan to use the cane on a daily basis, the shape of the handle is important, because in this case the cane will constantly contact the person's palm, and it is important that this contact is as comfortable as possible. Due to the uncomfortable shape of the handle, a person will experience painful sensations in the palm and wrist from day to day. A handle that follows the contours of the palm (anatomically shaped handle) is considered ideal. A handle with a large diameter is always easier to hold, but everything is individual, and when choosing the shape of the handle, you need to rely primarily on your own feelings.

Walking with a cane:

WITH According to the recommendations of trauma doctors, the cane should be worn in the hand opposite to the injured or weakened leg - only in this case the load is distributed correctly. That is, if your left leg is injured, then the cane should be held in your right hand. Before you go outside with a cane, you need to practice walking with it at home in someone else's presence.

D First, you need to make sure that the cane is in the correct hand. Then, leaning on the healthy leg, step forward with the cane and the sore leg at the same time, and only after that, leaning on the cane, step with the healthy leg. When walking with a cane, you should transfer your body weight to it as much as possible, thereby alleviating the load on the injured limb.

NS walking up the stairs, grab the railing with your free hand, place your healthy leg on the higher step, then put the cane on the step, and already leaning on the cane, step up with the sore leg. In this case, the leg and cane should be in one line. When descending the stairs, you need to act in the reverse order: first place both feet together and place the cane on the lower step, then step with the injured leg, leaning slightly forward and holding the handrail with your free hand. After that, place your good leg on the same step. In order not to make mistakes when descending or ascending, you can remember a simple phrase "Up - with a healthy leg, down - with a sick one."

D In order for the reed to truly support it, it must be equipped with a tip. The tips are made of plastic or soft rubber. Before you start using the cane, you need to make sure that the tip fits snugly against the shaft and does not slip while walking.

H For the reed to last longer, you must keep it clean and wipe it regularly, first with a damp cloth and then with a dry cloth. All plastic parts can be wiped clean using special plastic cleaning fluids. Do not use solvents or oily liquids as a cleaner. The reed should be checked regularly for cracks and tip wear. Do not wait until the tip is completely erased - it is better to replace it at the first sign of damage or wear.

Safety precautions:
  • Before going outside with a cane, check the shaft and tip for damage. Do not use a defective cane.
  • If the cane is telescopic, make sure the locking latch snaps into place.
  • Always hold the handrail with your free hand when going down or up stairs.
  • Keep the cane as vertical as possible while walking.
  • Do not place the cane too far away from you.
  • Use the cane only for its intended purpose.
  • Do not hang bags, bags, etc. from the cane.
  • Do not leave the cane in direct sunlight for long periods of time.
  • In winter, do not go outside with a cane that is not equipped with an anti-slip device (STD).
  • Walk very carefully on tiles and loose carpets and rugs.
  • If you fall, try to swing the cane to the side so as not to fall on it.

IN High quality, lightweight support cane MIKIRAD 12 / MR.H with a soft curved handle in hygroscopic and hypoallergenic polyurethane foam, made in Poland according to European standards. It has a telescopic height adjustment, eight positions with a step of 2 cm. The product undergoes special processing! Not afraid of moisture and reagents! Maximum load 120 kg.

IN High-quality support cane MIKIRAD 12 / MR.L with a curved "swan" handle, which, due to its "special" shape, compensates for the shock load during walking, and is equipped with a wrist strap. Made in Poland according to European standards. The product undergoes special processing. Not afraid of moisture and reagents.

WITH a storage support cane unfolds automatically under the influence of its own weight - with a "wave" of the hand, with an ergonomic handle for any hand, stowed away in a bag-cover. It will always be at hand at the right time. Takes up little space, has a bag-cover. Equipped with a reflective element. Stem material: thin-walled aluminum tubes.

TO The support legs are designed so as not to interfere with people when moving. The cane has a height adjustment for support under the arm. The rehabilitation tool is equipped with reflective elements. Stem diameter above the tip: 20 mm, below the handle: 22 mm. Stem material: thin-walled aluminum tubes.

TO The support legs are designed so as not to interfere with people when moving. The cane has a height adjustment for support under the arm. The rehabilitation tool is equipped with reflective elements. Stem material: thin-walled aluminum tubes.

T The device can be used to move around at home or outdoors. The cane is made of lightweight, durable and corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy. It has an enamel paint finish. The T-handle is made of durable non-slip plastic.

IN High quality support cane MIKIRAD 11 / MR.L with anatomical handle, made in Poland according to European standards. Height adjustable. Telescopic height adjustment, eight positions in 2 cm increments. Anatomical handle for the left hand!

IN High quality and lightweight support cane MIKIRAD 12 / MR with a universal handle, made in Poland according to European standards. Height adjustable.

TO The construction of the support legs is designed not to interfere with people when moving. The crutch has a height adjustment for arm support. The rehabilitation tool is equipped with reflective elements.

TO the coolant has two adjustments. One adjusts the height for support under the arm, the second adjusts the height of the axillary support. The design of the support legs is designed not to interfere with people while moving. The rehabilitation tool is equipped with reflective elements.

Have niversal attachment of increased stability, with the ability to rotate in place by 360 °, without lifting the cane from the surface. Concentric tread for effective traction.

NS The types on the threads are screwed into a plastic ring, which is sealed into the rubber base. This allows you to be both durable and elastic product! Spikes prevent snow from accumulating!

NS FS913L odnoks are made of aluminum, have rubber and plastic overhead handles. The walker can be folded and very convenient for storage. The legs are equipped with anti-slip rubber tips. Soft handrail pads.

L Lightweight walkers made of aluminum alloy with wheels can be used as an adjustable support for independent movement of people with various disorders in the musculoskeletal system. In addition, it is an excellent option for walking for people who have suffered a heart attack, stroke or surgery, especially during their rehabilitation period.

NS You can buy these and many other products in the orthopedic salons "ORTO"

Content

The movement of a person with age or due to various injuries is very difficult. To solve this problem, there are a number of devices today. One of them is a walking stick, which is an orthopedic stick for additional support - it is widely used by people with disabilities and the elderly. The word "cane" appeared around the 16th century; before it, the function of support was performed by an ordinary stick, and then by a staff.

What is a walking stick

This product is a medical instrument that is used by elderly people to support the body while moving, patients during the rehabilitation period, with impaired movement coordination and the disabled. Some products can serve as a decorative accessory, complementing a certain image. For manufacturing, wood, aluminum, steel and other materials are used. You can even order a cane in orthopedic salons or pharmacies with delivery by mail. Traditionally, the tool consists of:

  • tip;
  • knob (handle);
  • shaft (trunk).

Types of walking sticks

Before ordering a walking stick in Moscow or St. Petersburg, check out the types of this instrument. Medical device manufacturers offer a wide range of walking sticks, which are equipped with rubber tips, height adjustment, anatomical handle, and more. Such devices differ from each other not only by the device, but also by the material of manufacture, the shape of the handles. By functionality, there are:

  • standard walking sticks;
  • telescopic;
  • folding;
  • with support;
  • with a T-shaped handle;
  • for the blind.

Telescopic cane

Walking aids of this type can be adjusted in length. Thanks to this, they are easy to change for the growth of the owner. The traditional material of manufacture is metal. The telescopic product is easy to use, ideal for use in icy conditions, because equipped with a special anti-slip device. You can buy a cane inexpensively from an online store, but first check out a few of its options to make the best purchase. A good purchase can be:

  • model name: Support KZ 0087;
  • price: 669 rubles;
  • characteristics: material - metal, color - black, type - folding, number of sections - 4, there is a built-in LED lamp, height adjustment;
  • pluses: there is a backlight, anti-slip nozzle, comfortable handle;
  • cons: no.

Another telescopic cane is the Bronigen BOC-200 from Rehard Technologies GmbH. The ergonomic design of the medical device is made of durable aluminum alloy with good corrosion resistance:

  • model name: Bronigen BOC-200;
  • price: 1820 rubles;
  • characteristics: materials - aluminum alloy, steel, wood, rubber, textiles, color - black, adjustable in height from 78 to 102 cm, weight - 420 g, load - up to 110 kg;
  • pluses: strength, wear-resistant replaceable support nozzles;
  • cons: expensive.

Walking stick for the blind

The market for medical walking aids is saturated with a large number of proposals, among which there are products with anatomically shaped handle, with a large square support, etc. There is also a separate category of products designed for blind people. They are made from lightweight and often reflective materials. A device for the blind is often referred to as a "white cane." Some products are ultrasonic devices that can alert you to nearby objects. One of the products in the category:

  • model name: tactile 31782;
  • price: 1210 rubles;
  • characteristics: type - folding, number of sections - 5, length - 130 cm, weight - 250 g, tip - plastic, material - aluminum alloy;
  • pluses: comfortable non-slip handle, there is a fabric cover;
  • cons: no.

Look out for the lightweight telescopic graphite option for added flexural strength. The products are durable, and the special tip helps to ensure proper adhesion to the pavement:

  • model name: AmbuTech 29939;
  • price: 6450 rubles;
  • characteristics: adjustable length - 95-110 cm, weight - 220 g, material - graphite, tip - rotating spherical;
  • pluses: strength, lightness, there are reflective elements;
  • cons: high cost.

Wooden walking stick

A classic handmade wooden walking stick can be a good addition to your outfit. These elegant canes are able to emphasize the image. As for the strength, in terms of this indicator, they are practically not inferior to their steel counterparts. Inexpensive option with replaceable soft rubber tip:

  • model name: DR-0 MEGA-OPTIM;
  • price: 345 rubles;
  • characteristics: material - wood, height - 800/850/900 mm, weight - 380 g, permissible load - up to 100 kg;
  • pluses: good strength, cheap;
  • cons: no.

The following wooden structure is also a budget option. The product has a protective lacquer coating and an anti-slip device:

  • model name: DR-750;
  • price: 385 rubles;
  • characteristics: stand material - beech, birch, height - 800 mm, weight - 410-450 g, load - up to 100 kg;
  • pluses: durable, inexpensive;
  • cons: heavier than analogues.

Aluminum

When choosing a walking stick for the elderly, look for a lightweight aluminum construction. For example, the FS929L with its T-handle, which is made of durable and non-slip plastic, would be a good buy. The product has an enamel paintwork. As for caring for it, it is recommended to carry out the treatment with soapy solutions without using abrasive cleaning agents:

  • model name: FS929L;
  • price: 425 rubles;
  • characteristics: material - aluminum alloy, height - 72-94.5 cm, adjustment - through 2.5 cm, step adjustments - 10, load - up to 100 kg, weight - 350 g,
  • pluses: provides comfort and stability;
  • cons: no.

The 10105T is another lightweight yet durable aluminum alloy option. Buying it will cost you a little more than the previous product:

  • model name: 10105T;
  • price: 780 rubles;
  • characteristics: material - aluminum alloy, type - telescopic with a sliding anti-slip device, load - up to 100 kg, weight - 390 g, height - 76-99 cm, adjustment step - 2.5 cm;
  • pluses: comfortable, high quality;
  • cons: heavier and more expensive than analog.

Foldable

Such a device consists of several parts, so it is very convenient to transport and store it. When folded, the length of some structures can be only 30-35 cm. In this case, it will not be difficult to choose the right cane according to the owner's height. An inexpensive yet comfortable lightweight aluminum construction for the elderly and people with disabilities is:

  • model name: MD094-1;
  • price: 816 rubles;
  • characteristics: made of aluminum alloy, height - 81.5-92.5 cm, regulation levels - 5, weight - 350 g, load - up to 100 kg;
  • Pros: there is an anti-slip rubber tip, suitable for both hands;
  • cons: no.

The TN-131 foldable metal structure provides additional support and makes it easier for the user to walk. The anodized tube support has a protective coating:

  • model name: TN-131 Nova;
  • price: 960 rubles;
  • characteristics: material - aluminum alloy, height - 84-94 cm with a step of 2.5 cm, levels - 5, tip size - 19 cm, weight - 500 g;
  • pluses: strength, reliability;
  • cons: a bit heavy for a foldable product.

Three-bearing

This type of product is capable of providing support for a large weight, the main thing is to choose quality products. Its distinctive feature is the tip, which is equipped with three legs. The support in this case is pyramidal. The presence of a large number of anchor points guarantees increased stability. More often, such a design is recommended for patients with impaired coordination, who are at an early stage of rehabilitation, who have suffered a stroke and are severely weakened physically:

  • model name: 15 / MR.L;
  • price: 1750 rubles;
  • characteristics: material - anodized aluminum, height adjustment - 70-84 cm, tripod leg length - 17 cm, load - up to 120 kg, weight - 800 g;
  • pluses: quality, strength, stability;
  • cons: expensive.

The C Delta is a three-post construction with height adjustment function, but without anti-slip device. It costs an order of magnitude cheaper than its analogue:

  • model name: C Delta;
  • price: 1100 rubles;
  • characteristics: material - aluminum, length - 72-95.5 cm, adjustment step - 2.2 cm, weight - 700 g, load - up to 110 kg;
  • pluses: reasonable cost, good stability;
  • cons: no anti-slip.

Quadruple

Four-support walking devices have become somewhat widespread. These are suitable not only for physically weakened people or patients who have problems with coordination and musculoskeletal system, but also for those who are overweight. Excess weight puts a lot of stress on the legs and spine. Here's a relatively inexpensive option:

  • model name: E-0706;
  • price: 900 rubles;
  • characteristics: made of lightweight aluminum alloy, handle made of plastic, adjustable length - 72.5-95 cm;
  • pluses: stability, good strength;
  • cons: no.

The AMCQ21 four-leg walker cane is more stable due to its large footprint. Adjustment is carried out for both the right and left hand:

  • model name: E AMCQ21;
  • price: 1600 rubles;
  • characteristics: height - 75-98 cm with an adjustment step of 2.5, platform dimensions - 31x21x8 cm, color - black;
  • pluses: large support area, good build quality;
  • cons: it is more expensive than analogs.

Orthopedic walking stick

The category of orthopedic products can be distinguished separately. A high-quality version of this type is distinguished by its strength, stability and a comfortable orthopedic handle. Dozens of different models can be found on sale, for example, a support structure with an orthopedic handle is an excellent purchase for walking:

  • model name: Titan Welt-fn Ly-652;
  • price: 800 rubles;
  • characteristics: height - 77-100 cm, weight - 500 g, load - up to 100 kg, color - black;
  • pluses: strength, build quality;
  • cons: no.

A good option for walking sticks with an orthopedic and ergonomic plastic handle is the Deluxe product. The product will cost you relatively inexpensively:

  • model name: Deluxe;
  • price: 950 rubles;
  • characteristics: height - 78-100 cm with a step of 2.5 cm, material - aluminum, weight - 350 g, color - black, load - up to 100 kg;
  • pluses: ergonomics, good quality;
  • cons: no.

Walking stick-chair

A walking stick is a reliable supporting structure that will help to provide the necessary balance and aid in movement. This product is a telescopic structure, which is equipped with a folding plastic seat - you can sit on it and relax while walking. To save money on purchases, look for a suitable option in large retail outlets - they often hold promotions and sales. One of the inexpensive products in this category:

  • model name: KJT916B;
  • price: 1200 rubles;
  • characteristics: material - aluminum alloy, handle made of soft polymer, height - 85 cm, weight - 550 g, load - up to 100 kg;
  • pluses: can be easily turned into a seat;
  • cons: no.

The AMCQ21 design is a walking stick with handle and seat. This combination allows you to alternate walking with rest:

  • model name: KJT916B;
  • price: 1800 rubles;
  • characteristics: made of lightweight aluminum alloy, total height - 87 cm, from floor to seat when unfolded - 53 cm, seat color - blue;
  • pluses: quickly folds out into the seat;
  • cons: it is more expensive than analog.

Walking cane

Products from the category of walking are used not only as their direct purpose, but also to emphasize solidity at some important reception or in the theater. They can be used for full support while walking, and the variety of handle shapes makes such products very popular. In this case, silver-plated products must be periodically wiped with suede, otherwise the effect of a shiny surface will come to naught over time. Option with a billiard ball handle:

  • model name: Billiards 3975;
  • price: 4900 rubles;
  • characteristics: length - 92-93 cm, handle shape - ball with a diameter of 57 mm, color - black, shaft material - beech, thickness - 21 mm, rubber tip;
  • pluses: good quality, solidity;
  • cons: high cost.

Walking model Agate is a graceful, elegant and durable product with the shape of the Milord handle. Such an acquisition will favorably highlight and emphasize your style:

  • model name: Agate 3181;
  • price: 4650 rubles;
  • characteristics: length - 92-93 cm, shaft thickness - 19 mm, material - beech, color - brown, tip - rubber, acrylic handle;
  • pluses: solidity, elegance, durability;
  • cons: high cost.

How to choose a walking stick

In order for such a product to retain its strength and its properties, when choosing, pay attention to several points. Do not rush to give preference to one or another option. The optimal choice is guaranteed to make the walking process more convenient and comfortable, and at the same time will not have a negative impact on the musculoskeletal system. Check out the basic criteria for choosing a cane:

  • Application. When buying such a tool, consider not only the physiological characteristics of the future owner, but also how often it will be used: periodically or daily. For regular use, it is better to give preference to a classic wooden fixture with a plastic tip, which is equipped with a slip protection. If a person is going to travel a lot, then a device with a folding structure will be the best choice.
  • Lever. This part is responsible for the ease of use of the device as a whole, because touches the palm of a person. Contact should not cause any painful sensations, stickiness, or leave a smell in the palm of your hand. The size of the handle should be as close as possible to the size of the hand. The ideal choice would be an anatomical configuration that completely follows the contours of the palm.
  • Length. One of the most important parameters that must be taken into account. When choosing, the future owner of the cane should stand up straight, bend his elbows about 20 degrees and straighten his shoulders. In this case, the handle of the product should reach the base of the thumb. Do not forget to take into account the shoes: flat, heeled, platform. The best option is a telescopic device that can be adjusted in height.
  • Weight. Most of these tools weigh on average from 100 to 400 g. It all depends on the materials of manufacture. Too light adaptations often cause feelings of instability. Very heavy ones, on the contrary, will greatly tire the owner while walking, as a result of which movement will become uncomfortable.

For an elderly person

When choosing a cane for an older person, focus on the weight and length of the item. The first parameter is highly dependent on the material of manufacture. The chosen purchase should not be cumbersome and too heavy for its owner. If an elderly person is overweight, then pay special attention to the strength of the structure; a product with a steel shaft can be an excellent purchase. As for the length, use the advice above to find it. An overly long shaft will put an increased load on the shoulder joint, and a short shaft will overload the wrist.

For a disabled person

When choosing a cane for a disabled person, first of all, be guided by the recommendations of your doctor and take into account the criteria listed above. The most important thing for the means of support is the correct position of the joints, the selection of the height of the product in order to optimize the distribution of the load on the human musculoskeletal system. Telescopic designs are in demand, which have a push-button locking mechanism with a certain adjustment step. At the same time, the thing must be strong and very stable.

For rehabilitation

When purchasing a device for a rehabilitation period, take into account both the weight and length of the structure, and the shape of its handle. Also, consider the frequency of use of the product. If you are going to use it every day, then give preference to a product with an anti-slip device. Often, for rehabilitation after trauma, patients use telescopic aids with a pyramidal or square support. These attachments will help ensure maximum stability due to the large number of anchor points.

Determine what kind of help you need. The cane provides the least support when walking, and is designed to transfer body weight to the wrist or forearm. Generally, the cane is used for minor injuries or to improve balance. It cannot and should not support a significant portion of your body weight.

Choose a style. Walking sticks come in a variety of shapes to suit the needs of all patients. The following variations are available:

  • Pen. Some canes need to be gripped with the hand or fingers, while others can provide additional support for the forearm. Whichever handle you choose, make sure it is strong, comfortable, non-slip and not too big.
  • Barrel (shaft). The shaft is the longest part of the cane and can be made of wood, metal, carbon fiber or other materials. Some shafts are foldable for easy portability.
  • Tip. The tip or bottom of the reed is usually covered with rubber for better stability. Some reeds have three or four tips instead of one, allowing them to carry more weight.
  • Colour. Many canes are simple and unadorned, but if you don't want to put up with a gray walking cane, you can purchase a custom cane that will not only support you, but also highlight your personality.
  • Check the length. To find the correct length of the cane, stand in the shoes with your hands at the seams. The tip of the reed should reach down to the curve on the inside of your hand. If the cane is right for you, then when you hold the cane while standing, your elbow should be tilted at an angle of 15-20 degrees.

    • The cane is usually half the height of a person wearing a shoe. Use this rule as a basic rule.
    • If the cane is too small, you will have to bend to reach it. If your cane is too long, you will have to lean towards the affected leg to use it. None of these options are ideal. A perfectly fitting cane will keep you upright and provide support.
  • Hold the cane with your good leg with your hand. It sounds paradoxical, but it is. If your left leg hurts, then the cane should be held in your right hand. If your right leg hurts, then you need to hold the cane in your left hand.

    • Why? When a person walks, he walks and waves his arms at the same time. When we step with our left foot, we swing with our right and vice versa. When a person holds a cane in his hand opposite the injured leg, he reproduces this natural movement of the hands, which makes it possible to neutralize some of the weight when walking.
    • If you are using a cane for better balance, keep it in your non-dominant hand so you can use your dominant hand for everyday tasks.
  • Start walking. When you step with your injured leg, move the cane forward and support your weight on both the affected leg and the leg at the same time, allowing the cane to absorb more stress than the leg. Do not use a cane when stepping on your good leg. As you get used to the cane, you will feel as if it has become an extension of your body.

    Cane - an invention that arose a huge number of years and even centuries ago. It appears in stories about the Egyptian pharaohs, it can be seen in pictures with images of pilgrims. But the rich history has not changed the main purpose of this tool: to be a support, to help in movement. In different periods of history, its other possibilities also came to the fore: first - as a means of defense or attack, then - as an indispensable attribute of the wardrobe of any aristocrat. In this capacity, the cane reached Russia, appearing in our country thanks to Peter I. Until the twentieth century, it was rather regarded as a stylish accessory.

    Today, this auxiliary device successfully combines both orthopedic and image functions. There are a huge number of all kinds of modifications, materials used, structures ... All this causes slight confusion when a person is faced with the need to choose a cane. A few simple guidelines will help you cope with this problem.

    To begin with, let's remember that a cane is a kind of extension of the hand. All parts of our body are in a certain ratio. When moving, they are displaced relative to each other, and this displacement is unique for each person. The cane is designed to restore the originally existing harmony, which means that when choosing it, it is necessary to take into account many physical parameters. Which ones? Let's list the main ones: height, weight, hand size.

    The question immediately arises: how can these indicators be taken into account when choosing a cane? In other words, what should you pay attention to? Here, too, there is a simple rule: the handle of the cane and its support surface deserve the most close consideration.

    1. Handle selection

    So, the handle of the cane is what your hand will come into direct contact with. And it is on her that your future comfort and the ability to move without difficulty largely depend.

    When choosing a handle, you need to consider its size, shape and material from which it is made. Let's start at the end.


    Our skin is extremely sensitive to all kinds of irritations. The appearance of a constant companion - the handle of the cane - will become a real stress for the palm of your hand. Therefore, when choosing a suitable option, you should look for a sample of the material that is most pleasant for your hands. In addition, the handle must not slip. In order to ensure maximum safety, special medical soft plastic is usually used in the production of reeds for the grips. There are also samples using rubber of varying degrees of softness. Of the less common and used rather not for everyday use - walking sticks with a metal handle. In the store, you should try out several different options - so you can compare how comfortable a particular offer is for you and choose the one that suits you.

    The shape of the standard handle is quite popular and well-known, but it is not suitable for everyone. But only at first glance, this form remains unchanged. On closer examination, you will notice that different samples differ in the degree of elongation and curvature. For example, you may come across the following handle options:

    And also many other options. For example, there are canes with an anatomical (orthopedic) handle: under the right or under the left hand. There are models with two support handles: when lifting from a sitting position, the person first leans on the lower handle, and when walking, on the upper one. And for fashion canes, the handles can be almost a work of art: round or in the form of an animal figurine, carved, inlaid with precious stones, made of precious wood, with a ring for engraving a dedication, "with a secret", etc. The choice can be made only with your individual participation. In this case, it is worth taking into account the climatic characteristics of the country of residence: remember that in cold conditions the hands are protected by gloves, which changes the shape of the hands and palms, as well as their size. We recommend that you bring a pair of gloves with you before visiting the store and select the reed with or without them. The size of the handle should take into account your individual parameters related to the size of the palms, hands.

    At the bottom of the cane, the bearing surface and the tip are important. The latter must ensure the stability of the staff on any road. It is desirable if it is made of rubber of a high degree of strength. The quality of the material can be checked very simply: run the stick over the linoleum. If the rubber does not leave marks, chances are you found a good sample.

    With the selection of a support surface, the situation is somewhat simpler. There are several types of canes, each of which is focused on specific human needs. The usual cane-stick, known to everyone for a long time, has acquired new relatives in the form of models with square and pyramidal bases. By increasing the number of legs, the support area increases, which means that stability is increased. When is this required? Firstly, in conditions of ice and other unfavorable climatic manifestations. In this case, the solution may also be the purchase of an additional anti-icing attachment. Secondly, if you have problems with the vestibular apparatus, coordination of movement is impaired, etc., in a word, when a person needs serious support when walking. And thirdly, if your weight is overweight.

    3.Shaft

    Thus, having considered the most important features of the cane, we come to the remaining physical indicators - weight and height. In case of excess weight, it is better to choose a reinforced cane, when the shaft of the cane is made, for example, of steel. Depending on the physical condition, a cane with a displaced center of gravity is more suitable for someone - the handle of such a cane smoothly turns into a shaft, and it is easier to hold such a cane in the palm of your hand.


    As for the next parameter - growth, this is the simplest category to take into account. It is important to remember that the cane should be neither too short nor too long. In the first case, you will have to bend too much, which will lead to pain in the supporting arm and imbalance. In the second, there is a high risk of problems with the muscle group of the shoulder girdle. However, it is really not difficult to choose the right-sized cane, especially considering the fact that today there are so-called telescopic (sliding) canes - they allow a person to adjust the height of the staff so as to find the optimal one for himself.

    The last thing I would like to remind you: when choosing a cane, pay attention to its weight. Remember that you will spend a lot of time with this item, and it should not be too heavy or cumbersome. If you envisage long walks with this attribute, then consider purchasing a cane-chair that allows you to take a break and sit down in any place convenient for you, at any time. Folding walking sticks are also extremely convenient: they fold easily and do not take up much space.

    Instead of an afterword.

    Having paid a lot of attention to such important things as the correspondence of the chosen model of the cane to your physical parameters, we did not say a word about aesthetic appeal. But this is also very important! After all, the cane helps to create an image of a successful, stylish person, which has a positive effect not only on the attitude of those around you, but also on your own self-esteem. A variety of colors, patterns, types of knobs, materials (from plastic and metal to valuable exotic tree species) allow you to find the perfect combination that suits you. And you should be guided by one basic rule: you just need to pick up the cane, and it will tell you whether it is yours or not.

    In the world, millions of old people walk with a cane and at the same time do not feel any ease of movement - on the contrary, there are many complaints of pain in the back, knees, and calves after a walk.

    Sometimes a seemingly reliable tool becomes the reason for the sudden fall of an elderly person, as they say, out of the blue. In icy conditions, the cane even more often turns out to be a useless and dangerous thing - it slips, does not hold the weight of the owner, and even breaks.

    What is the reason for the complaints and how to choose a cane for an elderly person so that it becomes a reliable support when walking in any weather?

    When to replace your cane

    Your elderly relative complains of pain in the hands, feet, hips, back after a walk. Do not rush to accuse him of being too capricious - it is better to take a closer look at the cane with which he walks on the street and moves around the house.

    Should alert:

    • Unnatural slouching of an elderly person or an equally strange "curvature" back when he is leaning on a device
    • Heavy construction
    • Slippery surface of the handle, its general inconvenience, small diameter
    • Strong sliding on the floor or asphalt, if the cane is tilted at an acute angle - this is how it turns when a person suddenly loses balance
    • Any cracks or curvature of the stick surface

    If you see at least one of the listed problems, it's time to change the cane!

    Here are the reasons:

    An inappropriate device puts a lot of stress on the old, fragile spine and flabby muscles - hence the pain in the bones and body. The slippery, narrow handle forces you to make an effort to hold it in your palm, which does not bend well due to diseases of the finger joints, wrists.

    According to the analytical article "Medical Aspects of the Aging of the Moscow Population, 2015", about 25% of older people use a cane. However, for most users, the walking stick is incorrectly sized!

    Too heavy "stick" is simply uncomfortable for an elderly person to carry.

    The rubber on the tip is probably worn out, so the cane can slide on the floor or asphalt at any moment, depriving the old man of support.

    Cracks and curvature are signs that the product may break completely at any time, and the person will fall, receive severe bruises and injuries, which are very difficult to heal at a venerable age due to the upcoming changes in the bones.

    So, it's time to replace your old cane. The choice is huge. How not to be mistaken?

    Five "yes" and "no" when choosing a model

    An elegant accessory with a figured knob was remembered by many as a kind of feature of literary and cinematic characters, emphasizing their aristocracy, sophistication of manners and even a certain demonicity.

    A properly selected device is:

    • Perfect match for the owner's height
    • Special design for age-related diseases, articular and pathologies
    • Light weight, easy handling
    • Reliable protection against accidental falls when walking and standing up
    • Durability

    An unequivocal "no" will have to be said to the canes, in which:

    • Height not adjustable
    • No technical solutions for people with disabilities who suffer from vertigo
    • Additional support is not provided in case of ice
    • Initially fragile or quickly wearing out material of execution
    • Heavy weight

    The many-sided cane: an overview of the models

    Orthopedists have developed modern designs that take into account the characteristics of growth, age and health status of a person. There are canes for the sighted and the blind: each of these varieties has its own characteristics.

    Walking sticks for the sighted

    Standard cane: like a grandmother near the entrance

    The usual "stick" with which old age is strongly associated. Despite its deep lack of compliance with safety requirements, it continues to be popular with the elderly.

    Design The simplest device consists of three parts:

    • T-shaped, L-shaped or rounded handle
    • Sticks
    • Tip

    What they are made of: varnished wood or low quality aluminum. The handle is made of wood, metal or plastic, the tip is made of ordinary rubber.

    Properties: no useful features, but with many inconveniences: the standard grip is of small thickness, moreover, it is often slippery and does not fit well in the palm of your hand. The length of the stick is not adjustable and is designed for an average human height, and therefore is too short for a tall person and too large for a short person.

    Tip - small diameter. The rubber wears out quickly, slides on a rolling and icy road and even on the floor of an apartment.

    Wood and old aluminum alloys have shown themselves to be not the best in terms of the quality of the raw material. Bad wood deforms over time - bends, cracks from temperature and humidity changes. In addition, wooden walking sticks are heavy for an elderly person.

    Although aluminum is noticeably lighter in weight, it also quickly deteriorates from accidental impacts, bends.

    Dignity: the only thing is cheapness.

    Who are suitable: the minimum number of elderly people without severe diseases of the vessels of the brain - transferred, as well as without pathologies of the spine, bones of the extremities. For the sick - it is critically dangerous!

    Telescopic walking sticks

    These are ideal constructions designed for the whole set of diseases, without which only a few live in old age.

    Telescopic walking sticks are:

    • With one or two support arms
    • Offset center of gravity
    • Supported on three or four legs
    • Walking sticks chairs

    Walking sticks with one and two handles

    Single and Double Handle Reeds - Multi-segment retractable designs that extend the attachment through one or more button presses.

    What are they made of: aluminum alloys, composites based on carbon fiber and other materials. Handles are available in wood, plastic and silicone or rubber. They have sufficient thickness and are ergonomically designed: the ribbed surface allows even the injured or fingers to grip them comfortably. This shape is called anatomical.

    Properties: in the cavity of the stick there is an anti-slip device - a retractable probe that does not allow falling on the ice. Walking sticks with two handles, located at different heights, allow you to firmly hold not only when walking, but also when standing up. The lower one should be held when getting up and sitting down, the upper one - when walking.

    Dignity: lightness, extraordinary strength, safety.

    Who are suitable: weakened people who often feel dizzy when changing body position. Good for walking and getting around the house.

    Canes with an offset center of gravity

    Off-center walking sticks are designed for people with severely impaired motor coordination. They also move apart, but at the same time they have a small step of adjusting the length - about 3 cm, which allows you to more accurately adjust the length of the stick to the height of the owner.

    What are they made of: material - the same as for other telescopic structures: composites and aluminum alloys.

    Properties: the highlight is the shifted center of gravity, which will not allow you to fall, even if the cane accidentally tilts at a very acute angle, when a person is standing or moving, moving the entire body weight onto the handle. The included safety strap makes it even more stable.

    Dignity: the same lightness and strength, the possibility of using obese people - the telescopic pole can withstand a weight of up to 120 kg.

    Canes supported on three or four legs

    Walking sticks supported on three or four legs are "fundamental" devices with a pyramidal or square shape of the leg support.

    What are they made of: lightweight but strong aluminum alloys, composites. Anatomical handles are made of high quality plastic or medical rubber, which does not slip under the palm. The tips are also made of durable rubber, replaceable.

    Properties: weight (the weight of the product ranges from 700 g to 1.1 kg, depending on the model), dimensions, which limits the possibilities for use. Walking sticks with square or pyramidal support are not suitable for walking, unless they must be accompanied by someone who takes the cane out into the street and then brings it back.

    Dignity: small step of pulling the stick - 2.5 cm, extreme strength and stability of the structure.

    Who are suitable: people who have suffered a stroke, surgery or trauma, who have poor coordination, to move around the house, hospital corridors and wards.

    Walking sticks chairs

    Walking sticks are folding structures ideal for walking in any weather. What they are is clear from the name: this is a kind of hybrid of a sturdy cane and a folding seat on three legs, one of which, when the device is unfolded, becomes the cane itself.

    What are they made of: material for their execution - durable and lightweight aluminum. The handle is covered with high quality ribbed rubber. Replaceable tips for legs are made of it, which do not slip.

    Properties: weight - on average 800 grams, small dimensions - the model becomes almost flat when folded. Both the cane and the seat are designed for people weighing up to 100 kg.

    Who are suitable: for everyone who does not give up an active lifestyle and loves to walk for a long time, although, admittedly, the design is rather heavy for an elderly person.

    Walking sticks for the blind

    The freedom of movement of even a relatively healthy blind person is already severely limited for obvious reasons. If he is also old and physically ill, then the choice of a cane for him dictates special rules:

    The traditional cane for the blind is always only white - this has been the custom since the 30s of the last century. It is not without reason that it is believed that it attracts the attention of others: be careful, a blind person is walking!

    And if earlier the cane was an ordinary stick, with which the blind felt the road and objects, now a special tactile design has been developed for them, which simplifies movement as much as possible and makes it safe.

    Tactile canes, like ordinary ones, are solid and collapsible. Folding structures are often offered in stores: they are more reliable and ergonomic than simple "sticks".

    General information

    Folding canes are telescopic and compound. In telescopic devices, the segments are retractable, and in composite devices, they are fastened together with rubber bands and bushings. There are also combined models, where both telescopic and composite properties are combined.

    Composite canes are more reliable than telescopic canes - this must be remembered when choosing the design of the most important orthopedic instrument for a blind person. The point is that the telescopic cane can accidentally collapse if the retaining clips are loose. Composite reeds are free from such a defect and behave more reliably: you can safely lean on them.

    Tactile canes are made of composites - carbon fiber, fiberglass, as well as modern aluminum alloys.

    Handpieces

    The tip of the tactile cane is the most important part of any design for the blind. It is he who informs the person of all the most important information about the quality of the road surface and obstacles on the way.

    Tips are finger, spherical, and mushroom. In some models they are static, in others they are mobile. The difference is that the static tips do not emit any unnecessary sounds, while the movable ones can give an unnecessary background sound that distracts the blind person from listening to the sounds of the street. True, they have one significant advantage: movable tips wear out more slowly.

    They are made from polymers, plastics and ceramics. Polymers and plastics wear out faster, and ceramics can chip if accidentally hitting a hard object. Which one to choose is a matter of personal taste and budget.

    How to choose a cane for height

    Both the cane for the sighted and the tactile instrument for the blind can have any design, but their most important property is compliance with the growth of the future owner. It is fundamentally!

    Selection of a cane by height for the sighted

    It's simple:

    1. Stand in shoes, if possible, not slouching, on a flat surface
    2. Bend your arm at the elbow by about 15-20 degrees
    3. Place your palm on the cane handle so that the person is comfortable and does not need to slouch, bend, bend the elbow more or less
    4. If the palm does not reach the handle, while the elbow is forced to bend or unbend more strongly, it is necessary to correct the length of the stick by pushing or pushing its segments a step or two
    5. Ready!

    Selection of the length of the cane for the blind

    A blind or visually impaired person should, when moving with a cane, control the road ahead on the sides for at least two steps. This rule should be followed when adjusting the length of the device: a cane that is too long, as well as too short, are equally useless and dangerous.

    Therefore, the length is calculated as follows: ask the person to stand up straight, wearing their usual walking shoes. Measure the length of your legs and torso from floor to solar plexus. This is the ideal length to bring the tactile cane segments to. Ready!

    The medical industry takes walking sticks for the elderly and the disabled very seriously: new, useful inventions appear every day. You are also responsible for the choice of the "assistant": the life and health of a loved one depend on her quality!