A cane is a walking stick used by people with physical disabilities. It is an alternative to a crutch, which is typically used for supporting weight off the leg. Canes are made of different materials and are designed for different purposes. They were originally made from wood, but today they can be made from metal, fiberglass, plastic and rubber. Canes can be used as a walking aid, as a support while standing or sitting, or as an aid to help someone who has trouble with their hands.
Types of canes
Single-point canes – There are many types of canes but the most common type is the single-point cane. It is the most practical and versatile cane. Single-point canes has only one point at its tip, which is usually made of wood, metal or plastic and has a rubber or fabric sleeve. They are used as a walking aid for people with limited mobility due to arthritis, injuries or other conditions.
Multi-point canes – A multi-point cane is a type of cane that has two or more telescoping sections. It's usually made from metal and can be used for different purposes. They are mostly used for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, hunting, and camping. People who have difficulty walking due to injuries, arthritis or other medical conditions might also find them useful because they provide extra support on uneven ground.
Folding canes – Folding canes are a type of cane that has a metal or plastic handle and a collapsible stem. They come in many different types, sizes, and colors. They also make it easier to transport them around as they fold up when not in use.
Offset Canes – Offset canes are a type of cane that has a handle at the top and uses the shaft to create an offset angle which can be grasped in a different manner as compared to other types of canes aforementioned.
Hemi Walker – Hemi Walker is a cane that can be used by people with hemiplegia, a condition that causes paralysis on one side of the body. It has a unique design that allows for the user to use their arm as the primary walking stick.
How to choose the right cane?
Many people use canes because they have an injured joint or are in pain. They provide support and reduce pressure on the ailing joint. Some canes are also designed to provide extra stability for those who have trouble standing on their own.
Choosing the right cane is important because it provides support and prevents falls. The right cane should be lightweight enough to not cause any additional pressure on ailing joints, comfortable enough to make walking easier, sturdy enough to provide stability during walks and prevent falls, and durable enough to last for years without breaking down too easily.
What height of the cane to get?
Cane height is a personal preference and it depends on the individual. To choose the best cane height for the user, they must use their walking shoes when buying or testing a cane. However, if the user is using different shoes with different heels, choosing an aluminum cane with adjusting heights should be the option. Keep in mind that too long canes can cause excessive forces on the flexion of the wrist and can put unnecessary strain on shoulders or lower back of the user.
What kind of grips to look for?
Cane grips come in different shapes and sizes. However, the most important factor to look for is how comfortable the grip is. There are 6 types of cane grips: thick, thin, firm, padded, L-shaped, or T-shaped.
Thick cane grips are typically used by people with a lot of grip strength or those who need extra support. They provide more leverage than thin cane grips, but they also make it harder to maneuver around tight spaces.
Thin cane grips on the other hand, are typically used by people with weaker grip strength. They provide less leverage than thick cane grips, but they also make it easier for people to move around in crowded areas or even navigate in stairs.
Firm cane grips are typically used by people who want a little extra support while they use their canes. While the padded cane handle gives users an extra layer of comfort as they are using it. Lastly, the L-shaped or T-shaped cane grips provide better balance than the rounded grip as they are easier to use on uneven surfaces like paved roads or uneven terrain.
Cane compositions
The compositions of a cane affect its price. For example, wooden canes are far more less expensive than the aluminum ones. But aluminum cane is lighter, adjustable in height, easy to carry or maneuver, and has a lot more features than wooden canes.
One must also consider the type of weather they’re living. If you live in a cold climate, choosing a cane that has removable and pivoting spike for indoor usage will help. If you live in a warm climate, getting a cane with a rubber tip that can be replaced when it’s loose is very beneficial and cost-efficient.
Safety Tips for using a cane
Knowing some safety tips in using cane can help avoid common injuries. These tips are: making sure that you have the right type of cane for your height and weight, making sure that you have the right type of grip on the handle of your cane. And don't put too much pressure on your wrist when holding the handle at any time during use, even if it feels like it's secure enough.
Where to shop for a cane
The cane is a simple but essential tool for people who are blind or visually impaired. It helps them to navigate through the world and maintain their independence.
The Sky Medical Supplies team understands this need, which is why they have created a range of canes that are stylish, durable, and affordable. They have also made these canes accessible with an array of colors and designs that suit every taste.
Sky Medical Supplies offers cane offset with pink garden, blue waves, leopard, or butterfly symphony coating, as well as All-terrain cane quad tip for outdoor usage. There are also tip and grip replacement kit and folding canes available.
Sky Medical Supplies is your first choice to rent crutches in Denver Colorado. We also serve the colorado population around Parker, Littleton, Boulder, Aurora, Broomfield, Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, Centennial, Englewood, Denver Tech Center, Cherry Creek, Greenwood Village, Longmont, Westminster, Englewood, Lone Tree, Lakewood, Erie, Superior, Lafayette, Golden, Arvada, Wheatridge, Brighton, Thornton, Elizabeth, Franktown.