THIS INFORMATION IN NO WAY REPLACES A MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS RECOMMENDATION. As with any medical device please see you doctor before sizing and use.

Using your cane properly will increase stability and balance while walking or standing. You should use your cane on the opposite side of your injury or weakness, regardless of which hand is your dominant one. Put all of your weight on your unaffected leg, then step with your affected leg and the cane at the same time a comfortable distance forward. With your weight supported on both your cane and your affected leg, step through with your unaffected leg.

When using a cane for balance, let comfort be your guide. Place and plant your cane firmly on the ground before you take a step. Nonskid rubber tips help keep you from slipping. Check tips often and replace them if they look worn.

Never place your cane too far ahead of you, or it could slip and you could fall. Wear sturdy low heel shoes with nonskid soles to help prevent falls and increase stability and balance. Avoid wet floors and sidewalks because they may be slippery. Remove throw rugs from your path (especially if you have hardwood or linoleum floors). Keep an eye out for electrical and telephone cords and other items that may cause falls. Revolving doors and escalators should be avoided because ... Speak with your physician about a temporary (or permanent) disabled permit that will allow you to park in handicapped zones. Slow down and take your time to make your outings safe.

Going up stairs: Take the first step up with your stronger leg. Then move the cane and affected leg to that same step.

Going downstairs: Take the first step down with the cane and the "bad" leg. Then, lower the strong leg to the same step.

Winter walking: If you use a cane, it helps to plan ahead for winter walking. Take plenty of time and rest breaks as needed. Watch out for slippery wet areas, snow and ice. There are canes designed for winter use with special tips to "grip" the ice (See next section.).

Preventing falls: Always be sure the tip on your cane is in good shape. A worn tip is more likely to cause a slip on ice, snow or a wet surface. Use the widest tip you can, but it should fit snugly on your cane. Ask about an "ice-gripping" device for the bottom of your cane. Called an ice pick or ice grip, these can be flipped down for a better grip on snow or ice.. For greater balance, consider using two canes during winter walks. Don't forget about the proper footwear! Even with a cane, your feet can slip on the ice or snow.

For more information on canes and winter walking, talk to your pharmacist or home health care specialist.