How to Properly Use a Cane! | Dr. Ben PT

[@DrBenPT]

Thanks for watching! Don't forget to let me know what topic you'd like me to talk about in my next video!

[@carlosmartinez2121]

I'll appreciate exercises to improve the quality of the balance. Correcting the orthostatic blood pressure. It is a big problem that decrease the life quality. /thank you in advance /Carlos

[@mariannemay2669]

I would like to learn exercises I can do to improve walking with cane and stop using 3 wheel walker.. I also get very tired painful back when I “March”” to lift leg

[@rosemarielang2207]

@@carlosmartinez2121 😊

[@judyward4602]

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I have had a cane for over 12 months and today I have finally adjusted it properly and find out I have been using it on the wrong side all this time. Walking had been such a chore, my back and shoulder ached and even the good leg was getting sore. It will take a little practice to get used to using my cane properly after all this time but it sure makes walking a heck of a lot easier. 😂 Been doing circuits of the house and I feel like I am walking normally not like a crippled up old woman like before. It makes me feel 20 years younger. Wow, thank you so much.❤

[@DrBenPT]

Wow, thank you so much for taking the time to write such kind words! It can definitely take some time to adjust, especially if you're transitioning to your non-dominant hand. But I've seen people adjust very well within a matter of days, and it really does make all the difference! I'm so glad this video was helpful for you! Best wishes to you!

[@hunfon3070]

8

[@hunfon3070]

00

[@minnieleichleiter759]

ABSOLUTELY agree

[@Old52Guy]

This is the best tutorial I have found! I have lumbar stenosis (on top of two replaced knees) and the pain has been moving down and now involves the hip. You cleared up the big question of which side to use the cane but you also explained the why. Thank you. You should do more videos. You are a natural teacher.

[@DrBenPT]

Thank you so much for those kind words! I am actually an adjunct instructor in a local physical therapy graduate program, so thank you! I hope to get more videos up this year! Feel free to let me know if you have any suggestions on what you would like a video on - I'm always looking for ideas! Best wishes to you!

[@babystepsgarden6162]

Thank you! This helped me so much! I had Achilles tendon surgery yesterday. My walker will not arrive until Tuesday. I can now adjust my cane correctly, and walk with it correctly (only to the bathroom for the first couple of days though). You have been a huge blessing to me! May God bless you abundantly. Again, thank you. ❤❤❤🙏🙏🙏🙌🙌🙌

[@DrBenPT]

You're so very welcome! I'm so glad that this video helped you during this crucial time. Hopefully the walker arrives sooner than expected! And thank you, God is so good to me :) Best wishes to you with your recovery!

[@pacogonzales2028]

I had a stroke that affected my left side. My left side is my weak side. My PTs told me that I should have the cane in my right side because it is like having a second right leg. Accurate and good advice.

[@DrBenPT]

Thanks so much for stopping by and for sharing! Best wishes to you in your recovery!

[@ubiestinsula]

Thanks, Ben, clear and concise.

[@ajpeterson49]

Dr Ben, Thank you SO much! I am a 74 year old gentleman that has just begun to experience balance and stability problems in the past year. I have been active all my life but have fallen twice in the past 6 months, Physical Therapy has helped (some of your exercises are familiar to me 🙂). I will now be practicing your balance exercises from Part 1 & 2... I watched your video on use of a cane because I am the type of guy that is always planning ahead. I will watch your new videos after I make more progress with Part 1 & 2. Thanks again!

[@DrBenPT]

You're very welcome! And I think it's a great idea to plan ahead! Avoiding a fall or loss of balance is always the best plan! Best wishes to you!

[@jrzzrj]

I too have noticed balance/stability issues since I turned 79. I haven't fallen yet but keep the possibility in mind. Haven't broke a bone yet either!

[@emilystermer]

Great how to video. Very helpful. Thsnks

[@violetromic5257]

Can’t thank you enough, I’ve learned so much. You’ve answered many of my questions and concerns.

[@DrBenPT]

You're very welcome! I'm so glad you found this video helpful!

[@richlovin2173]

I have started using a cane after a mild stroke Your advice is very helpful. Thanks.

[@DrBenPT]

You're very welcome! Wishing you all the best in your recovery!

[@RobertPRoach]

😀Robert P Roach Dr. Ben, thank you very much for your advice. It follows what I have been shown in therpy for ballance for someone with Parkinsins disease, plus some additinal ones.The original therapy helped me a great deal, but has seemed to have warren off somewhat. I hope that your additinal exersises will help me out.

[@florenceledgister7327]

Thank you x3 Dr. Ben I acquired a cane fairly recently and was unsure of most of the points you covered. It feels comfy but will check that elbow curve, etc. Boy I feel refreshed. Thanks again 🤗

[@DrBenPT]

I'm so happy you found this video to be helpful!! Thank you for stopping by and sharing your story with me! Best wishes to you!

[@catseyesmidnight2889]

Thank you Dr. Ben! I just popped my knee for the first time, I’ve never used a cane, but, a friend gave me one awhile back. Now I’m having to figure out how to use it, grateful to find your excellent advice.

[@DrBenPT]

You're very welcome! Best of luck with your recovery!

[@JanetFoy]

This is a great tutorial. Thank you u so much. I am preparing fir hip replacement surgery in a few days abd u wanted to see how to use a cane properly. I have been using a cane but. Ever really got the hang of properly using it or walking with it. Thank you so much this is very helpful 😊

[@kmheltman250]

Thanks, that was so helpful because I have looked at other videos and each one has had a different walking pattern. You clarified it all by explaining they are all correct, just used in different phases of your ability. Well done!

[@DrBenPT]

Thanks so much for stopping by and for your encouragement! I'm glad that you found this helpful!

[@mariarevoy7775]

Thank you Dr, Ben , I never knew how to ajust my can the rigth way.

[@DrBenPT]

You're very welcome! It's a very common issue that I see with my own patients, as well as when I'm out and about. But it makes a world of difference when our assistive devices are properly adjusted for us. Glad you found this information helpful!

[@jrzzrj]

👍..Great video. Altho I do not need to use a cane yet, I have one (like yours) on hand, just in case. I am 79 and so far, so good with walking. I notice balance getting out of wack a bit and the cane will be a blessing sometime soon. Thank you.

[@DrBenPT]

You're very welcome and thanks for stopping by to let me know! If you'd like some information on balance, I have 3 balance videos on KZbin: kzbin.info/aero/PLDg9nYAM18_q--cVIgFZ2yeql1Dj6TERy

[@LauraMonteros]

Thanks! I just got a cane to help when my knee is acting up. This video is very helpful. I am very short--about 4'10.5"--so even on the shortest setting (33") the cane may be a bit high. It feels comfortable, though.

[@DrBenPT]

You're very welcome! Glad you found this video helpful! Thanks for stopping by and leaving me a comment!

[@haryantisetiawan9321]

Very helpful video, now I know how to use my cane, after surgery 2 months ago I am still using the walker.. Thank you very much Dr. Ben 🙏🏻

[@AuthorBrittanyWang]

Thanks for another informative and helpful video!!

[@ellendodge5156]

Thank you so much for this exceptional video! It was so carefully done. I especially liked your choice of a hallway for the demonstration. I generally use an Upwalker, but find a cane to be handy if going into a restaurant, etc. I found out I’ve been using my cane in the wrong way! Thank you for showing me the proper way to use it.

[@DrBenPT]

You're welcome! I'm so glad you found this video to be helpful! Over the years, I've found it helpful to have a variety of options depending on varying environments. Some people have also found it helpful to have multiple canes or walkers scattered around the house so there's always one nearby. Thanks for stopping by!

[@terryford4821]

This - and every other video I've watched about how to use a cane - do not address using a cane for balance WHEN THERE IS NO WEAK OR PAINFUL LEG/FOOT/HIP INVOLVED! Quite understandably and laudably, they address using a cane to alleviate the problems associated with an injured or weak leg. However, for those of us who only use a cane to help us balance (and stay vertical!), it would be very helpful to inform viewers that the important thing is to synchronize the cane movements with the opposite leg. In other words, if you hold the cane in your right hand (as I do), move it forward and plant it down IN CONJUNCTION WITH STEPPING FORWARD AND PLANTING YOUR LEFT FOOT.

[@graceevangelista7152]

Thank you, Dr. Ben.

[@DrBenPT]

You're very welcome! Glad to be helpful!

[@lydiacordova7534]

Thank you very much for this information I needed this, I have a question ⁉️ Canes these days have 3 legs, my problem is walking with 3 legs Thank you

[@elsbethkoen]

Thank you so much for sharing

[@DrBenPT]

You're very welcome! Thanks for stopping by and commenting!

[@roberttetreault1744]

Thank youfor the info. but in my case, what is the best way to use a cane or walker with a seat after a lower back injury?

[@DrBenPT]

That's a great question! It would depend on the severity and nature of the low back injury. If the pain alleviates when supporting with a cane or walker, that's typically a good sign. But a lot of it also depends on how the low back responds to a position that is more flexed forward vs. a straightened position. It also depends on what posture the body is in while standing. All of these factors would influence the appropriate height for an assistive device. What is shown in the video is for the typical height adjustment without any other underlying factors. Hope that helps!

[@greendragon4058]

Thank you, time sneaks up on you I had the inside of my bones shaved to give room for my pelvis because they don't line up. And this is going to sound silly but my cat gives me so much comfort through my night terrors but when I get crutches she hisses at me I want to give back so I've been walking with a cane but apparently I've been walking with it not correctly she said thank you

[@carlosmartinez2121]

Manny thanks, your advice and knowledge are very appreciate. Thank you again /Carlos

[@colinbrigham8253]

Thank you 😊

[@DrBenPT]

You're very welcome! :)

[@kedrynmcmillan5888]

In 2011 I experienced a stroke while I was asleep, it was a minor stroke can't remember the technical term the doctors used, any rate I am a disabled vet and received care at local VA. After my release from the VA hospital I was supposed to receive PT but was never given PT from the VA. The right side of my body was affected, not severely but there is a notable weakness and my stability when walking is noticeable not to mention the dexterity in my right hand and arm. I started to use a cane to help with stability but never was given proper training in use of a cane. So my question is should the cane be in my left or right hand when using it. VA seems to act indifferently to my questions in other works goes in on ear and out the other. Your video has answered some of my concerns. This happened when I was 54, will be 66 this July 4th seems to get worse each passing year.

[@nettaglover8183]

Excellent . Thank you.

[@teresagreenlee6412]

This was great! Thank you so much!

[@DrBenPT]

You're very welcome! Glad this was helpful for you!

[@10231898]

Could you show the best cane technique for those with a curved spine and dropped shoulder?

[@DrBenPT]

Thanks for stopping by and commenting! That's a great question, however the answer would depend on some other factors, such as whether the curve has some mobility to it, the degree of the curve, and how strong the hips are. Ideally, we're always looking for a safe and steady gait pattern that decreases the chance of a fall. After that's established, the next step would be assessing posture and alignment while standing and walking in order to maintain equal stress between both sides of the body. I hope that helps!

[@dhtisme7034]

I have had back surgeries (4 total). I have been left with nerve damage in both legs. A drop foot on the left side but severe muscle pain in the right leg. Both legs are always numb & tingly. I have used a walker for 2 years, but now I feel I can walk with a cane. With both legs having problems, which side do you suggest I use for the cane? I have practiced with both sides, but neither side feels better than the other.

[@drmrinalkantinath4336]

Dear Dr Ben, Thank you for the video. It is very nice and informative. After surgery almost 4 months ago, I am still using the walker though the Physical Therapist has asked me to use a cane. While you discussed three gait pattern, feel I missed your points. If you make it much more clear it would be helpful for me. I feel little shaky about using a cane and walk, though I have three-legged cane is already with me. Moreover, would you please explain which one will be better for me, regular cane, three-legged one or four-legged one. Hope you would pin it and reply to my query as many people promise but they do not care to reply to the reader's query. You seem to be different as I see replies 1 day back so I have faint hope you would address to my queries.

[@DrBenPT]

Hello! Thanks for stopping by! A three point gait pattern means that during walking, there are three separate points in time where there is contact with the ground (left foot, cane, right foot). Typically, most people walk with a two point gait pattern (right foot to left foot, right foot to left foot). Unfortunately I can't provide specific medical advice, but I can say that many people tend to feel more comfortable with placing their weight through a cane that has four legs. However, these canes do tend to be heavier. Learning to use any kind of cane definitely takes practice, but can get easier over time, as long as there aren't any other underlying conditions that make it difficult or unsafe. I hope this helps, and am wishing you the best in your recovery!

[@drmrinalkantinath4336]

@@DrBenPT Thank you for your reply, Dr Ben. You seem to be best person who offer advice to the patients with injury (I have right femur bone injury and not yet started using a cane, though I have two canes at my disposal to be returned soon if I get final advice from you). You said four-pronged canes are better than the other canes, so I will order four-legged ones, if I get any reply to it. Hope you would give me. Does four-ponged cane need separate gait pattern? Another thing I like to ask you about climbing stairs. I live on the second floor of an apartment. A doctor (orthopedic) friend of my younger brother ((he is not my doctor who operated upon me) told him that I should not climb up and down the stairs if it is necessary. He is of the opinion that I should give up the idea of climbing down and up stairs. How far it is true? I am practicing stairs-climbing right now. Hope this will find an answer from you.

[@patriciatreslove4449]

Would you please show me how to use the stairs safely with my cane, going up is not as bad as going down,

[@DrBenPT]

That's a great idea! I will add that to my list of videos to record. It might take me a while, but hopefully I can get that up soon. And definitely going down the stairs can be tricky!!

[@anne-mariemurray8887]

I’ve discovered (PRE hip surgery) that walking down my stairs BACKWARDS is less painful and feels safer. 😊

[@animalmini1]

Thank you

[@DrBenPT]

you're welcome!! thanks for stopping by!

[@brendalopes4653]

Thank you Dr Ben 🙏

[@DrBenPT]

You're very welcome!!

[@mariannemay2669]

I had a stroke about 2015 can I start to use a cane after a 3 wheel walker? Left is weaker but I can move around. I do drag left foot. I am trying to make myself lift foot, it is hard to remember.

[@DrBenPT]

Thanks for stopping by and sharing! That's a really great question, however, I'm unable to answer that question without a thorough examination. The best way to get an answer for that is to see a local physical therapist who has experience working with people who have had a stroke, especially because strokes affect people in a wide variety of ways. Hope that helps!

[@haweedamohamed5906]

What if both the knees hurt and you need support.... awaiting knee replacement

[@DrBenPT]

This is a great question! Some people will choose to use two canes, whereas some others will choose to use a rolling walker or rollator. Rollators are helpful because they typically include a seat for when you need to rest.

[@ibosquez5238]

Great video but would you please use another effect because there was a bright flash at 1:10 and it hurt my eyes.

[@doloresfoley7704]

Thanks dr ben

[@DrBenPT]

You're welcome Dolores!!

[@jasonpadgett6482]

What if you are useing a cane do to back problems what hand would you use it in

[@romelyribada4927]

Thank you doc.

[@pamelaubl504]

How do you know if you need a cane or a walker?

[@DrBenPT]

Hello! Thanks for stopping by! I apologize for the delayed response, but in terms of a cane vs. a walker, the primary deciding factors are safety and function. The biggest concern is always to prevent a fall. That being said, depending on your home/work environment, one may work better than the other. Generally, a walker can stand on its own, and has a bigger base of support, making it more stable if used correctly. However, a cane is more versatile and is more easily used on the stairs and uneven terrain, and is easier to get into/out of a vehicle. A physical therapist can help decide what is best for each specific person after an evaluation. Sometimes, people find that using a mix of the two can be helpful based on the varying environments that they have to traverse. Hope that is helpful! Best wishes to you!

[@sopapanthanasukarn6746]

Thanks you

[@areguapiri]

What if both legs are weak?

[@sarahbuermann8881]

Difficult to follow because the print from the captions obstructs the ability of the viewer to see what is being described. You might provide an option to watch without the captions.

[@DrBenPT]

Thank you for the feedback!

[@balqis-1zaman176]

How to walk with two poles and how to adjust the height ,thakyou .

[@glennso47]

How do you get it tight enough so it doesn’t come loose as you are walking?

[@DrBenPT]

Hi, that's a great question! Sorry for the delayed response, but most adjustable canes have a screw ring somewhere on the leg of the cane. After you set the height that works best for you, you screw it back on tightly. I know some people have broken their canes because they didn't know that they had to unscrew the ring before adjusting the height. Hope that helps!!

[@glennso47]

@@DrBenPT I already know about the ring. But my hands are not strong enough to get the ring tightened up so it doesn’t work itself loose for me. Should I try to tighten it with a wrench? Or pliers? Thanks

[@DrBenPT]

I see! Sorry for misunderstanding! If using a wrench or pliers, I would use caution, as the metal ring around most of the canes tend to be made of a softer metal. I would also check to make sure that the cane is at the correct height before you begin, just in case it gets stuck there. I hope that helps! Best wishes to you!

[@Blgtn43]

Thank you.

[@CindyBaertson]

I was told when I bought my cane to have the crook facing towards my back. I noticed you have the crook facing your front. Is one better than the other?

[@DrBenPT]

Great question! I'll be honest, I was taught this way, and I've only ever seen them used in this way. That being said, if the far tip of the cane is perfectly centered, that would mean that when the crook is facing forwards, the center of mass of the cane would also be moved a little forward, and not exactly centered. If I'm correct about that, then I would say that the crook should face forward, so that it helps to provide a slightly wider base of support (between the user's center of mass and the cane). If the crook is facing backward, it would actually decrease the base of support, theoretically making it harder to maintain stability. Practically speaking however, it needs to feel stable for each user. Whenever I have people come in with assistive devices that aren't properly adjusted to their height or size, I will ask if I can adjust it, and then ask them which one feels better. If the original "setting" feels most stable to them when walking, I always opt for stability and safety. If an assistive device is set improperly and it's also unsafe for the patient, I'll change it for them and then work with each person to make sure they feel stable. Thanks for watching and asking a question!

[@matthewjohnson6360]

I knew it, upon seeing the video title, I'm ben using 1 for 18 years now. Brain surgery AFO. I'm have been using a wooden walking since for over 10 years.

[@irmaganela3427]

Thnx for sharing

[@romelyribada4927]

How to make all properly using cane

[@romelyribada4927]

How to walk properly safely using cane

[@rhondastevens2268]

Hi Ben.i have inherited.rigidity parkinsons.from.my darling mother who passed away from.parkinsons complications on.2003 In.tjd pastv23 months I have had 170+ falls Yes some daysvi have had 2 or 3 falls on some days..I terrified of leaving my home as i live alone.in my unit in.a retirement villsge

[@rhondastevens2268]

12.months I have had 170+ falls having some days where I hsve had 2 pt 3 falls in the one day. I.am.now absolutely terrified of leaving my villa in a retirement village It has all been are worse bynthe fact that my neurologistbhad given the all clear to drive firbsnothet 23 months as here in Australia

[@rhondastevens2268]

I have 3 wheelie walkers but only use thennewedt abs dearest one that I own which.is.the Parkinsons u walker which i. Love because i have found that i am able to pull myself up ound that it is so

[@judylittle1138]

Thanks I am afraid I will fall.

[@DrBenPT]

It helps to have a licensed physical therapist help you determine which assistive device is safest for you and your environment. Please stay safe!

[@ethelsands9102]

Srroke pt help Pl

[@utubewatcher3852]

I had a stroke and it's more Comfortable to use my right side