Orthopaedic Walking Stick: The Guide You Were Looking For 🦯
Walking Sticks – Safety and Comfort While Walking
Mobility is always of vital importance for everyone. Many times, as we reach later adulthood or after suffering an accident, our mobility can become limited and, as a result, our independence. However, the most important thing in this situation is that there are always alternatives to minimise these limitations and regain freedom of movement, allowing you to take each step with safety, comfort and wellbeing.
There are different technical mobility aids that provide support while walking, such as orthopaedic walking sticks, crutches (elbow crutches) and walking frames. In this article from the OrtoPrime Blog, we focus on providing all the information related to walking sticks, including: What is a mobility walking stick?, techniques for using an adult walking stick correctly, benefits of walking sticks, types of mobility walking sticks, how to choose the right walking stick, and essential accessories.
What is a Mobility Walking Stick?
Mobility walking sticks are technical aids consisting of a rod, generally made of wood or other materials, which is held in the hand and transfers body weight to the ground through a vertical shaft.
They are specifically designed to facilitate walking, reduce fatigue and decrease load on the lower limbs, improving overall stability.
They are generally made up of three main parts:
- Handle: Manufactured from highly resistant materials such as bamboo, wood, methacrylate, ivory or nickel. Handle shapes can be spherical, L-shaped, curved or T-shaped.
- Shaft: The most important part of the walking stick, as it supports the user’s weight. It may be made from wood, bamboo or aluminium, and can be foldable or adjustable.
- Ferrules: The component that provides grip and protection at the base of the walking stick. They must be made from high-friction materials such as rubber or similar alternatives to ensure good ground contact.
Techniques for Using an Adult Walking Stick Correctly:
When you have never used a walking stick before and suddenly need one, many questions naturally arise. At OrtoPrime, we want to share a series of practical tips based on the most common questions from our customers, so you can feel comfortable and confident when using your orthopaedic walking stick.
- Make sure your walking stick is suitable for your height.
- Choose a comfortable handle, depending on the user’s personal needs.
- Ensure that the base or contact point of the walking stick is firmly on the ground before taking a step or applying weight.
- Hold the walking stick in the hand on the side of the stronger leg.
- Look ahead while walking, not at your feet.
- Wear non-slip footwear with no heels.
- Maintain an upright posture; do not lean forward.
- Take extra care with obstacles at home or outdoors, such as rugs, cables, uneven surfaces, pets or small children.
- Keep the ferrules in good condition to prevent slipping.
- Avoid slippery surfaces, such as wet floors.
- Always step first with your stronger leg, whether changing direction or climbing stairs – remember: “up with the good, down with the bad”.
- Try to sit down or stand up from a chair with armrests to make movements easier.
- Even if you feel confident using a walking stick, walk slowly to avoid unnecessary risks.
Benefits of Walking Sticks:
- Improve balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls.
- Provide greater independence and freedom of movement.
- Allow you to reduce load on the lower limbs.
- Support a more effective recovery from injuries to legs, knees, ankles and feet.
- Durable, thanks to their resistant materials.
- A reliable mobility aid for people with reduced mobility.
- Contribute to improved emotional wellbeing.
Types of Mobility Walking Sticks:
Adjustable and Height-Regulated Walking Stick | Black
Adjustable Walking Stick – 5 Positions | Floral Design
Adjustable Walking Stick: Adjustable walking sticks feature a 4-section folding mechanism, tool-free, easy to transport and store, taking up minimal space. They can be conveniently stored in any bag when not in use. They are also height-adjustable to suit the user thanks to a practical click-lock system.
Folding Walking Stick with Seat: These walking sticks are generally manufactured from aluminium or steel, making walking easier, improving stability and reducing fatigue. They feature a quick and easy folding system and include a comfortable non-slip PVC seat to rest whenever you feel tired.
Classic Beechwood T-Shaped Walking Stick
Derby Beech Cane | Brown Colour | Elegant
Carved Brown Beech Walking Stick | Acrylic Handle
Beech Wood Walking Stick: Made from strong yet lightweight beech wood to support comfortable walking on different surfaces. A wide range of handle designs and models is available to suit individual preferences and needs.
Aluminium Walking Stick | Nickel-Plated Handle
Nickel Design Orthopaedic Cane
Nickel Walking Stick: A durable walking stick with a stable support point, made from compact and strong material to withstand everyday use. A wide variety of handle styles is available, ranging from classic designs to more versatile options.
Curved Walking Stick: Typically made from bamboo, rattan, or cane, this walking stick features a curved handle that provides broader support and is easy to carry comfortably on the arm.
How to Choose the Right Walking Stick?
Now that you have all the essential knowledge about orthopaedic walking sticks, this practical guide includes an additional bonus: learning how to choose the ideal walking stick for you.
Below are key recommendations to consider when selecting your mobility walking stick:
- Height: One of the most important factors. To determine the correct height, stand upright with your back and legs straight, arms relaxed at your sides, and place the walking stick next to you. The handle should align with your wrist height. This allows the arm to remain slightly bent, improving comfort and mobility while walking.
- Handle: There is no single formula for choosing the perfect handle. Comfort is key. Hold the walking stick for a while and choose the handle that best suits your hand and needs.
- Curved Handle: Also known as a traditional handle, suitable for light to medium support, commonly made of wood or metal.
- T-Shaped Handle: A classic design offering excellent support thanks to its ergonomic shape.
- Derby Handle: Dual-purpose design that provides comfortable support while walking and allows the stick to hang on the arm.
- Weight: When choosing a walking stick, it is essential to know your weight and the maximum supported weight of the walking stick to avoid deformation or breakage.
Essential Accessories for Your Walking Stick:
To feel more comfortable and secure when using your mobility walking stick, it is advisable to have a selection of essential accessories:
Non-Slip and Adaptable Cane Tips
Wide Cane & Crutch Tips 2 Pack
Non-Slip Ferrules: A key component that ensures secure ground contact, preventing slips and accidents. Available in different designs and diameters for improved stability.
Walking Stick Wrist Strap: Made from adjustable elastic material, compatible with most walking sticks. Allows you to keep your walking stick close at hand.
Crutch & Cane Pad | Hand Protection
Padded Grip Cover: Made from neoprene, offering flexibility, improved grip and enhanced hand comfort.
Where to Buy Your Mobility Walking Stick?
At OrtoPrime, we advise and support you in finding the product that best suits your needs. We are a Spanish company with extensive experience in the orthopaedic sector and mobility aids for older adults and people with reduced mobility.
Through our online orthopaedic store, we are committed to delivering the highest level of service and providing the most suitable solution for your daily mobility.
Visit our website to discover all the products available in the Health and Orthopaedics section. Contact us and we will be happy to help.
Professional Contact:
- Email: support@ortoprime.com