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Step 1
Save money. The most common type of cane you are likely to encounter is called a “C cane,” which takes its name from its candy cane shape. If you have a minor injury that is only temporary, this style might be your best choice. C canes are relatively inexpensive and can be found at most pharmacies and even some department stores. Remember that the cane’s length should be roughly half your height.
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Step 2
Enhance your balance. Functional grip canes are identical to C canes with the exception of their straight handles, which offer more balance and a better grip. Quad canes take balance to the next level because they are mounted to a base with four legs. Canes with increased stability should be the choice of people with major impairments or long-term injuries. For added protection, purchase a cane that has a rubberized tip (or tips in the case of quad canes) to minimize slippage.
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Step 3
Make a transition. Some injuries are so severe that people have to use walkers in order to maintain their mobility. After a while, however, a walker may no longer be needed. In this instance, persons should transition to a hemiwalker cane, which is similar to a quad cane with the exception of its expanded base. If your injury is permanent, the hemiwalker is probably your best choice because it offers unsurpassed support.
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Step 4
Make some room. Advances in technology have led to breakthroughs in cane construction. Today, persons with disabilities have the option of choosing collapsible or folding canes that can support up to 250 pounds of pressure. Fortunately, the cost of these canes isn’t much higher than that of traditional canes and the benefits make the difference well worth it. Folding canes are ideal for persons who travel frequently or who only need the cane when standing for long periods. Upon entering a car, bus, or office, you’ll be able to easily collapse the cane, and then store it in a purse or briefcase until needed.
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Step 5
Make a statement. For centuries, people have used canes as fashionable accessories. From pimps to prime ministers, the cane remains a symbol of finesse and style. Specialty stores sell canes in a wide variety of designs and shapes and can help you express yourself with the perfect walking stick. Be warned, though, that these canes can get pricey, especially if you custom order one to fit your lavish tastes.
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Step 6
Pick a cane for protection. Collapsible canes make handy clubs should you find yourself cornered in a dark alley. Simply withdraw the cane from your pocket, unfold it and prepare to defend yourself. Even so, a more effective weapon is the sword cane. Around the seventeenth century, gentlemen of high society began replacing the swords they carried with blades concealed inside their cane’s shaft. Although this reduced the weight each cane could support, it provided protection and maintained the high standards of evolving aristocratic fashion. For safety, choose a sword cane that has dual locking systems. Also, remember that sword canes are illegal in some states. In others, they may require a special permit.
Comments
swciii said
on 7/9/2008 I have bought many canes and a cane stand at www.fashionablecanes.com they have some really neat canes that fold up are the same as in the article.