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Mobility Aids - What You Need to Know

By Carol & Richard Eustice, About.com

Updated: November 28, 2007

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Kate Grossman, MD

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Before You Buy a Cane

Photo by Glenn Bo (iStockphoto)

Mobility and walking can be impaired if you have arthritis. Canes offer additional support and improve balance when walking. Canes can be adjusted for height to ensure a proper fit. To select the proper length for a cane, stand up straight with your shoes on and arms at your sides. The top of the cane should reach the crease on the under side of your wrist.

Choose an adjustable cane if you plan to wear different styles of shoes. Make sure you have a good grip of the cane and that the fingers and thumb do not overlap. Shift as much weight to the cane as necessary. Make sure that the tip of the cane is in good condition and that it is replaceable.

When using the cane, hold the cane with the opposite hand of the side that needs extra support. When going up stairs, step first with the cane and good foot, then follow with the bad side. When going down stairs, step first with the bad foot and follow with the cane and good foot. Check out these Top Canes.

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