How to Use a Walking Stick/Cane Correctly

To subscribe to 3-Tip Friday, Will's free weekly email where he shares his best health tips, new videos and fascinating research, go here: info.ht-physio.co.uk/3tf
To get a copy of Will's new book, Thriving Beyond Fifty, you can find it on Amazon below:
UK link: amzn.to/3mAISFv
US link: amzn.to/3J1ACGi
(Amazon Affiliate links) To subscribe to 3-Tip Friday, Will's free weekly email where he shares his best health tips, new videos and fascinating research, go here: info.ht-physio.co.uk/3tf To get a copy of Will's new book, Thriving Beyond Fifty, you can find it on Amazon below:
UK link: amzn.to/3mAISFv
US link: amzn.to/3J1ACGi
(Amazon Affiliate links)
Follow us on Instagram for more content: / htphysioofficial
In this episode, Farnham's leading over-50's physiotherapist, Will Harlow, reveals how to choose, set up and use a walking stick correctly!
If you're suffering from nagging knee pain that hurts in the morning and stops you from walking as far as you'd like, you can take our free knee pain guide - which will give you 5 expert tips to put a stop to knee pain at home - by visiting here: ht-physio.co.uk/knee-pain-gui...
To get in touch about sponsorships or promos, send a message to: [e-mail]
If you're over-50 with a painful problem in the Farnham, Surrey area, you can learn more about how Will Harlow and HT Physio can help you overcome a painful problem here: ht-physio.co.uk/
*Any information in this video should not be used as a substitute for individual medical advice. Please seek advice from your local healthcare professional before taking action on the information in this video.* Full policy here: ht-physio.co.uk/injury-discla...

[@maryc1447]

Thank you for a very informative video. I was injured in an automobile accident and had reconstructive surgery performed on my left ankle almost six weeks ago. I'm now allowed 100% weight bearing on the ankle as tolerated and using a walker to get around. I'm hoping to graduate to a cane soon and will talk with my PT when he visits tomorrow. Watching this video in advance of his visit has been very helpful.

[@HT-Physio]

I'm so sorry to hear about your accident - I'm wishing you all the very best in your rehabilitation journey and I hope my videos can compliment your efforts :)

[@sandinewton1896]

I haven’t searched for any info in correctly using walking stick, just needed it this past week, and hope it’s only for now and not long term. How did the internet know I had these very questions? Thank you so much for these very helpful recommendations

[@user-pg3gx6gi6t]

Thanks for the advice. Just shows there's always something to learn. One issue not covered is if a balance problem affects both feet, also what about nordic poles. Would you recommend these?

[@HT-Physio]

The internet seems to be a very clever place! I'm glad it brought you to my page!

[@HT-Physio]

@@user-pg3gx6gi6t hi there - I have the following video on correctly using walking poles that may be of use! kzbin.info/www/bejne/sJrViYNpadOdpa8

[@jocelynlevy9486]

you just have to thnk a need and those algorisms will deliver!

[@mizanniemule]

I had a stroke two years ago affecting my left side and am relearning how to walk at age 80 😅. I’m now able to walk around 3000 steps a day but not doing it correctly. With proper height and use of my cane I think I can improve even more. Thank you. I love you tube

[@ritakendall5755]

My family always thinks the cane should be higher. I had 2 knees replaced over the years.I cant wait to send this video to all of them.Thank you for giving a great presentation.I tell everyone you cant have the cane high,there is no support for your arm. My sister is getting her knee done soon. I am sending this immediately to her.😊 thank you

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you for sharing my work - I'm glad it has been of help to you and hopefully for your sister too!

[@simongee8928]

I began using a stick occasionally when I developed arthritis in my left knee. But since I've been doing your recommended knee strengthening exercises, hardly use it - ! But when I'm hill walking, I prefer a staff similar to a scout staff as I can adjust my handhold and thus the 'length' of the staff instantly depending on the ground I'm negotiating.

[@sallielesage2869]

I was one of the 90 percent that had my cane height set too high! I shortened the height and it works so much better! The gait recommendations were very useful too. I can now use my cane more effectively when I need it. Thank you!

[@janbrown8190]

Great information thank you, very helpful 😂

[@carolejordan5744]

Thankyou Will, very helpful. I've never been able to find anyone who would advise my dad how to use his stick. People just gave me funny looks as if we were all born knowing?

[@HT-Physio]

I'm sorry people haven't been very helpful before - it's a completely new style of motion and activity that takes time and knowledge to master - I hope my video can be of some help!

[@les5309]

Fine work. Thanks.

[@nathanwildthorn6919]

Great, informative video.😊 In one of your previous videos, I learned that I'd had my cane adjusted too high. I adjusted the cane to the height recommended in your video and I couldn't be happier! Thanks! 😊

[@HT-Physio]

That's great to hear! I'm happy I could be of help :)

[@milettendero5514]

Very helpful. Thank you for sharing!

[@phronsiekeys]

very helpful!

[@MAcevedodeGiron]

Thank you for this very useful practical information.

[@wandabrady2178]

Good information thank you, God bless! You are amazing!

[@hengang4571]

Thank you very much for your free advice Dr. 🙏💙💜💚

[@mxDexster90]

Very helpfull video. I recently got approved for a walking stick, got to pick out my own online, and then they send it over mail 😅 and left me to figure out how to figure it out myself. I both have autism as a chronic illness that has given me balance issues and pain when walking long distances. so having an adjustable cane for when I need it is a life saver as I love to walk outside this video has been very helpful in helping me to adjust the stick an make sure I'm not using it the wrong way an posible hurting myself

[@Lorrainecats]

Thanks for this video.

[@alicekutty]

Great enjoyed seeing the instruction. Thanks

[@alicekutty]

I use walking stick ,but did not know the rules for using it.thanks for the instructions

[@lyndasoar4345]

V clear info... Thank you

[@annieyue9184]

Thank you very much for your clear instructions. Your video is very helpful!

[@HT-Physio]

So pleased to hear it was helpful!

[@hezrinaosman2751]

Thank you for your advice

[@nannasnswnews8395]

Thank you so much, your video helped a lot😊

[@RT-np5ws]

Good man thanks

[@lisaschroeder4345]

Thank you. I will use this information starting today.

[@HT-Physio]

Wishing you all the best, I hope it proves beneficial!

[@gulshanbanuhajee2116]

Thanks this was very useful ❤

[@patriciakunz1198]

Thank you. Very clear and helpful.

[@HT-Physio]

Glad it was helpful!

[@suemcguire9298]

thank you well explained

[@sabinegreen4272]

Brilliant présentation. Well explàined. Very good videos Will definitely order your😂😂 book.

[@khanverde]

Wow, I really learned a lot from this video!!

[@elainecampbell8209]

Very very interesting, thank you

[@user-my5qt6hx2u]

VERY HELPFUL! THX 😂

[@summergucci3872]

Great Information

[@aminahhossen3400]

Very useful infos. Thnkyu.

[@colynmajor]

Excellent video

[@JamesMeyerArt]

Thank you for this - I'm helping my dad trying to get get him to use a walk I g stick for balance and your video is something he would watch and doesn't make him feel like he shouldn't

[@HT-Physio]

I hope my video can offer some guidance to build his balance and confidence!

[@josephineanitadsouza7697]

Thanks so much. God bless.🙏

[@erm8479]

Hank you so much for the info so nescessary👍🏼🙏

[@annfox9187]

Thank you that was so helpful

[@HT-Physio]

So pleased it was helpful!

[@user-ok3ic5ve2z]

What a great video. Thanks.

[@HT-Physio]

So happy to help!

[@robertflegal1735]

Thanks for the info. I have had the cane for a week now. Your video just confirmed the method of the proper use for the cane is correct. Thanks again!!!

[@HT-Physio]

So pleased my video came at the right time to help you get the best support out of your cane!

[@lindahopkins9039]

Thank you so much - that is so helpful. I’m about to start using a stick and you have answered all my questions 👍

[@HT-Physio]

That's fantastic to hear I'm so pleased I could help!

[@pardumankahlon5946]

Thnx for such a useful video 🎉

[@HT-Physio]

My pleasure 😊

[@williambrennan9662]

Thank you I just had my second left knee surgery in 7 months and I am using a cane right now and I had it much longer than I should have after I shortened it my gate was much better and I’m much more comfortable

[@donnaschulz5073]

Thank you very much, Will. I had so many ailments and no idea how to use a walking stick properly. I have pain in my right leg so I thought I needed to have the walking stick in my right hand. You were very helpful ❤️

[@HT-Physio]

So pleased my video was able to help!

[@gwynfrynevans6467]

Perfect video. I use a stick, exactly as described. Many people are given a stick, perhaps by a hospital, and are expected to get on with it. I have often, with their permission, advised people where they are going wrong. There seems to be a view, obviously incorrect but, for some reason, intuitive, that the handle should coincide with the waistband.

[@ngbushell]

Great advice. I'm one of the 90%

[@pardumankahlon5946]

Well described,thnx a lot

[@HT-Physio]

You're very welcome!

[@balqis-1zaman176]

How I should I walk with walking poles and at what height it should be .thank you waiting for the answers.

[@user-xf8oj1mz5b]

I am pushing 89. Hips and knees are great. However I do have a problem with balance. I am light headed. Do not want to use a walker too cumbersome. Will a stick help with balance or do I need to see an OT. Thank you

[@jefffrench8016]

Thanks for the great advice! Does this also apply to crutches? Walkers?

[@taragunn9400]

Long Covid/ME person here. I decided to try a cane. Got a second hand one and this video has really helped. I felt a bit silly - but knowing how to use it properly really helps! Also helps remind me to walk the pace that I can actually sustain. Had a chuckle at the title of your book. I’m only 40 😩

[@HT-Physio]

So pleased the video was able to offer some help, please don't feel silly, a cane is an incredibly useful tool when used correctly!

[@paisleydreamzz]

My height is different if barefoot in house or depending which pair of shoes I decide to wear outside should I be adjusting my cane for each situation? Thank you!

[@CuriousinNY]

Nice video. QUESTION: do you have a video on how to use a cane or walking stick when enjoying nature on a trail? I’ve noticed weaknesses or pain in different parts of my body depending on the trail and day. I use to walk/hike all the time and I don’t want to give this up. I am still good with walking on flat surfaces as you are now demonstrating. I look forward to reading your reply.

[@Wendy-dk1sp]

Thanks so much. I have knee pain in one leg. What do you think about using 2 sticks? Is there any advantage?

[@libertyforever836]

A cane is something that’s used as an aid for walking. a walking stick can be used for many reasons. I have one I use for self-defense purposes. It does not aid in my walking, but it would aid me if I was attacked by someone.

[@LolaAileenVanslette]

Finally! Thank you for this information. I've been doing it all wrong, and causing more pain.

[@HT-Physio]

I'm pleased my video came at the right time for you to help prevent further pain!

[@stephenvincent4989]

No doubt great advice which I’ve tried very hard to follow unfortunately as I’ve lost the nerves in my foot I only feel secure using the stick on my bad side. I’ve tried to persevere but to no avail is using it on the bad side completely out of order?

[@mckyv731]

Hi , is it ok to still do cycling with sciatica…? Thanks

[@johnjay2219]

Thank you Will, for correct use of stick information. This crusty, ancient, ex Combat Veteran, and ex rugby player is finding all your videos most helpful.

[@HT-Physio]

I'm pleased to hear my videos have been helpful - wishing you all the best!

[@Joani161]

I used a cane higher and it worked for me, I had mine half way between my wrist and elbow.

[@Prendergastification]

Do you have a video on the correct way to use Crutches and Walker ?

[@lulusbackintown1478]

I have two sticks as both my knees are problematic. When I had one I found I was hunched over and lopsided. Now I have two I can stand more upright and this is much better for my breathing and no back pain. I can only walk 5-10 steps before stopping to get my breath so again the two sticks are more useful. The problem I have is they are a nuisance when you're sitting down and when you need to use your hands - shopping etc. I will check the height thats very useful

[@youreadyhoney]

Just had rehabilitation worker come to see me at home with a walking stick, I have arthritis in my right knee, but was told to hold stick with right hand, I thought it was strange so asked if this is correct was told I could use any hand think I’ll use the left hand thanks for the well explained instructions.

[@HT-Physio]

I'm pleased my video came at the right time to be able to help!

[@paulinewilkins2073]

Is it the same advice for hip problems?

[@BoomVang]

Thanks, but I only find a cane useful on same side as problem leg. It is to catch a fall from total leg spasmic collapse at the instant of bearing weight. It normally supports no weight except for the rare but catastrophic spasm. All other uses of canes just seems an assist that isn't essential for stoic folks.

[@ChristinaMagma]

That’s the exception

[@mosebochabane2607]

I have right knee replacement and painful left knee.How should I use the waiting stick?

[@tony3556]

I have never understood the "rules" about how you are supposed to use a stick, have a suspicion that they are laid down by people who have not experienced serious issues themselves! If my right leg is painful, then it is helpful and comfortable to ease the stress on it by using the stick in my right hand - as a third leg. It works fine, enables me to move quite steadily. The other way is awkward to manage and just doesn't work. The other thing often forgotten is balance. The stick on uneven ground/pavements enables you to keep adjusting your balance if you wobble - very important! More so maybe than pure support. Tony

[@janicerobinson6803]

Interesting info. My certified physiotherapist disagrees with the height being that low. She said it causes the user to stoop over the cane instead of standing tall and keeping your core strong and straight. Once mine was raised a bit, I noticed a significant, positive improvement.

[@wyldlibrarian3549]

Just curious about walking / trekking poles (a pair) four age group. Should they be adjusted to the same height?

[@chaisorrowscfs]

Thank you for this. Im 25 but permanently disabled from me/cfs n just bought a cane hoping i can get around a bit with it

[@HT-Physio]

I'm wishing you all the best with your new cane and I hope my video can offer some support!

[@user-dv5gw9yx8g]

I am 90 plus, feel safer if there are wide open spaces to cover.Left leg a bit weaker, probably result of a life of sport! Don’t use it all the time. But your advice was very helpful, ie. Height of stick especially, also you got to the point QUICKLY! Thank you.

[@HT-Physio]

I'm pleased my video was able to offer some helpful advice for you to get the most out of your walking stick for the times that you use it :)

[@SimonStJohn]

Sorry Will, another question if you are using the stick because you are elderly and unstable is there a correct side to hold the stick? My mother was told she should be holding it in the left hand but it's so unnatural that it looks more dangerous when she tries. As a right handed person she feels more in control...is that okay.

[@drevo50]

As someone with upcoming knee surgery, this is an invaluable video. I'll be using a stick for the first time - I feel so old!

[@sophiamachedi547]

My right leg has foot drop and I find holding my stick on my right is uncomfortable and I don't feel safe what's your advice

[@deeannjohnsoncapps6018]

What if you have hand and shoulder injuries?

[@lyneagle3360]

Yes, especially adjusting to the correct height.

[@GodfreyTempleton]

Good stuff, I've just checked out my walking stick length as per video and it's 65mm too long. Get the saw out in the morning..

[@GodfreyTempleton]

Oh dear think I've taken too much off, now slouching at the shoulder...

[@balqis-1zaman176]

I use walking poles ,at what height it should e

[@clairesmyth7151]

I had my stick too high i ned s rollator to walk but use a stick when home or in small spaces !

[@user-hh3kl6pg6p]

You showed how to use a cane when the problem is a bad leg. What about when the problem is balance?

[@bobbondi7191]

Is there a correct way to use a cane or walking stick while traversing ice, so that it doesn't slip on the ice and contribute to a fall?

[@runarsim]

Shouldn't you hold the stick the other way around so you get the weight through the whole stick in a straight line and not the weight on the back of the handle?

[@himansoovakharia6455]

I would recommend that an example is shown while in actual use.

[@Sema4beach]

☑

[@Mini-Me]

I turn my handle the other way around. I feel I walk better and less hand pain.

[@balqis-1zaman176]

7:23

[@skip123davis]

this doesn't really help me - too narrow a focus. i have neuropathy in my feet, and my podiatrist recommended me getting a stick or cane as a 3rd point of reference for balance purposes. so neither leg is particularly more disabled than the other, so for some reason i carry the cane in my right hand,

[@SimonStJohn]

Your point on height is well taken, but if my Mum did that she would bend over and forget to keep her back straight. It's a dilemma....😮

[@ShinChan1104]

Just had pin removed have to use cane for sometimes, this is very helpful... Btw you're so handsome, are you single 😘

[@cassieoz1702]

Oh, it drives me nuts to see folks in the supermarket, using sticks and crutches incorrectly 😡

[@jprp999]

LMAO, i was looking for this because my Mum won't take any advice on her stick use BUT this is pretty useless as he seems to be assuming that the user is in good health except for the one leg. Core strength? most pensioners that have need of the stick will have none, and probably Arthritic problems with back, hands, wrists and shoulders.