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Choosing a walking stick can be overwhelming. There are many different types of walking sticks and hand grips, each one best for certain users. This guide will help you find the best fit for you.
Key Takeaways
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There are three basic types of walking sticks: single point, four point, and seat walking sticks.
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There are four main types of hand grips for walking sticks.
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Choosing a walking stick can be overwhelming, but Performance Health is here to make your decision easier.
Table of Contents
Why Do People Use Walking Sticks?
Key Factors When Choosing a Walking Stick
3 Basic Types of Walking Sticks
4 Types of Hand Grips for Walking Sticks
Adjusting Your Walking Stick to the Perfect Height
Caring for Your Walking Stick
Summary
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Why Do People Use Walking Sticks?
A walking stick can improve your balance as you walk and reduce your risk of falling by widening the base of support. It helps people with pain, weakness, and balance problems walk more safely and comfortably. A walking stick should be held on the strong side of your body and moved at the same time as the affected limb. This shifts the weight away from the weaker side. It is important to keep in mind that a walking stick is only intended to support up to 25% of your weight.
Key Factors When Choosing a Walking Stick
1. Work with a healthcare provider to choose the correct type of walking stick
2. Have the walking stick sized so it fits you correctly
3. Get help learning how to use it properly
3 Basic Types of Walking Sticks
1. Single Point Walking Sticks
These simple walking sticks can help with early balance problems. However, they can’t stand by themselves without an accessory, as they only have one point of contact with the ground.
2. Four Point or Quadrupled Walking Sticks
Four legs at the base of the walking stick add more stability and help even more with balance. These walking sticks are ideal for someone who needs additional support beyond a single point walking stick. You might also prefer a Days Tripod Walking Stick, available with a wide or small base style.
3. Seat Walking Sticks
Take a break and have a seat! These Days Height-adjustable Stick Seats have a small, attached seat so you can rest while using it. The folding stick seat is also a good example of a walking stick that becomes a sturdy stool when opened.
4 Different Types of Hand Grips for Walking Sticks
1. Crook or Hook Handles
Traditional walking stick handles, usually made of wood, are called crook handles. The Days Standard Adjustable Walking Stick is a good example of this type, which allows for a more natural swing when walking. The walking stick handle resembles a shepherd's hook.
2. Derby Handle
This handle is thicker than a crook handle, with a gentle wave that conforms to your hand. Homecraft Coloured Walking Sticks or the Days Folding Steel Walking Stick even folds up for on-the-go use!
3. Ergonomic or “Ortho” Grip
If you’re looking for a comfy handle, you’ve found it! Ergonomic grips are easy to hold and reduce pain or stress on the wrist. This Days Ergonomic Handle Walking Stick also features a left and right handed option.
4. Offset Handle
This grip centers your weight and distributes it along the length of the shaft, which takes most of the strain off your wrist. With a maximum weight capacity of 270kg, the Bariatric Walking Stick can help support most users.
Adjusting Your Walking Stick to the Perfect Height
For best results, wear a shoe height that is the same as the shoe style you most frequently wear when using the walking stick.
1. Stand up straight with your elbow slightly bent (about 20 degrees) in a comfortable relaxed position.
2. Measure from the floor to the crease in your wrist to get your walking stick measurement.
3. The top or curve of the walking stick should measure up to the crease in your wrist.
If your walking stick does not feel right, ask your physician or physiotherapist to check the fit.
Caring for Your Walking Stick
After a while, the rubber tip on the end of the walking stick may become worn. At this point you should replace the tip to ensure your walking stick keeps its gripping power.
Summary
This guide contains just a small sample of all of our available walking sticks. There are Hard Wearing PVC Ferrules attachments for slippery surfaces and foldable walking sticks for easy storage. Walking sticks also come in basic black or cool patterns to suit your tastes. Hopefully, you can now find the right walking stick for you!
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided on this site, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational purposes only and are not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other healthcare professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.
