7 Common Reasons Why a Person May Need a Cane

Disclaimer: our company manufactures and sells the Giraffe Rolling Cane

Do you sometimes wonder if you should be using a walking cane? Is your walking becoming difficult? Do you have pain in your leg when you walk? Do you reach for or hold onto walls and furniture as you walk? If you answered yes to any of these questions, that’s a sure sign you should be using a walking device, such as a cane. A walking device will be helpful and make walking easier by providing a little extra support. It may also help to increase your endurance, so you can walk farther. A cane may make you safer and allow you to continue living independently. It may afford more independence, not take it away. Please consult with your physician or licensed medical professional before using any assistive mobility device or if you have questions or need more information about a walking device.

Here are 7 common reasons why someone may need a walking cane:

Minor problems with balance or stability. This is probably the number one reason why a person decides to start using a cane. If a person has had numerous falls or has a major balance issue, they may need a walker instead of a cane for stability.
Weakness or injury in one leg. If a person has weakness in one leg, they might have stability issues because their leg may “give out” on them. This leg weakness includes having a limp or frequently dragging one foot. Using a cane on the opposite side of the weakness will provide support to the weak leg.
Pain or arthritis in one leg. Similar to a weakness in one leg, pain or arthritis in one leg may cause stability issues. Also walking on a painful leg may cause increased pain. Using a cane may decrease the pain by taking pressure off the leg.
After a surgical procedure. A person may benefit from using a cane after a surgical procedure. The surgery may be to their back, hip, leg, or even to one arm. For instance, having shoulder surgery and wearing an immobilizer can throw off a person’s balance, and using a cane may help steady them during recovery.
Certain medical conditions may necessitate the need for a cane. Having a diagnosis such as a stroke/CVA, Parkinson’s Disease, peripheral neuropathy, vertigo, or multiple sclerosis (MS) can cause strength, flexibility, and balance issues to the point that a cane is necessary for safe walking.
Impaired vision and/or hearing. Decreased senses, such as hard of hearing and limited vision, can affect balance, depth perception, and difficulty seeing objects in the pathway. This can lead to a possible fall or injury.
The feeling that you might fall. If a person feels unsteady and thinks they could fall while walking, it is best to start using a cane before they have a fall.

There sometimes comes a point in our lives when we feel we might need a device for walking. Using a cane, such as the Giraffe Rolling Cane, can improve gait by providing support and stability. Using a cane may allow a person to stay in their home and be safer and more independent.