How to Determine the Correct Size of Walking Cane

Selecting a cane that fits the user properly is extremely important for comfort and safety. Measuring properly will help avoid the user from having to lean towards the cane or hold it too high compared to their body to allow them the extra desired stability. The correct height of cane will allow the user to maximize stability and safety.

Here are a few ways to determine the correct height of cane that will best support the user.

Measure the size of an existing cane:

1. If there is already a cane in use that fits the user correctly then simply measure this and make your selection.

Measure the user:

1. First put a pair of frequently worn shoes on the user that they would wear when walking. 
2. Have the user stand upright as naturally as possible. 
3. Have their arms fall naturally to their sides with a normal relaxed bend at the elbow. 
4. Use a measuring tape to measure the distance from their wrist joint at the bottom crease of the wrist to the floor. 
5. Round this up to the nearest half inch and make your selection.

Measure the users height in inches and divide by two:

1. This method may not always be as accurate as the previous measurements. 
2. Convert the users height to inches. 
3. Divide this number in half. 
4. Round to the nearest half inch.

These are some ways to measure for a cane and are a general guideline. If you have any any questions we always recommend that you seek help from a health care professional to ensure you are using the cane correctly and that you have the correct size.

Also, remember that a cane are not intended to be used like a crutch for full weight bearing. A cane simply adds additional point(s) of contact on the ground to affect balance, relieve joints and provide additional stability.

Canes are available in many shapes and sizes. Some are single point canes and others have four points and are known as "quad canes". Many canes are height adjustable and allow the user to set the height to their specific needs. Canes are also made of many different materials such as wood and lightweight aluminum.