How to Walk With a Cane: Tips to Make It Easier, Safer, and More Comfortable

A cane can make walking easier if you have pain or disability in your leg, knee, or hip. The popular mobility aid provides support to keep you steady on your feet. But if you've never used one, it might seem tricky at first. And you may have questions about how to walk with a cane. Helpful safety tips –– and some practice –– can point you in the right direction. 

What is the correct way to use a cane? 

When used correctly, canes provide extra support that may increase your awareness of the surfaces you walk on and improve your balance. The assistive device shifts your weight and reduces the load on the side of your body that needs support. That's why it's important to hold a cane in the hand opposite your weak limb. For example, if your right leg is weak or injured, you'll want to place the cane in your left hand while walking. 

But there's more to proper cane use than holding it in the appropriate hand. And you'll likely need it for support in more than one situation. These instructions can help you use your cane safely and comfortably on the move. 

Walking 

1. Hold your cane firmly in the hand opposite your affected side. 

2. Move the cane forward as you take one step with your weaker leg. 

3. Make sure your cane is firmly on the ground, and then step forward with your stronger leg. 

4. Repeat steps 1 through 3. 

Going up or down stairs 

To go up a set of stairs: 

1. If there is a sturdy handrail, hold it, and use your cane in the opposite hand. If not, keep your cane on your stronger side. 

2. Take one step up with your stronger leg first. 

3. Step up with your weaker leg and your cane at the same time. 

4. Repeat steps 1 through 3 until you reach the top of the stairs safely. 

To go down a set of stairs: 

1. Place your cane firmly down one step. 

2. Step down with your affected leg, using the cane for support.

3. Bring your stronger leg down next to your weaker leg. 

4. Repeat steps 1 through 3 until you reach the bottom of the stairs safely. 

When is it necessary to use a cane as a walking aid?

If you have pain, weakness, and balance or mobility issues, a cane may be a necessary walking aid. For example, almost 40% of older adults have balance problems. And more than 25% of people 65 and older fall each year. But canes and other mobility aids can prevent falls and help older adults stay independent.

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Conditions or injuries that might require you to use a cane include: 

• A broken bone in your lower extremities 

• Ankle, knee, or hip surgery

• Lower limb prosthesis following amputation

• Nerve damage, such as peripheral neuropathy

• Arthritis

• Stroke 

• Parkinson's disease

A healthcare provider, such as a physical therapist, can help determine if you will benefit from a cane or other assistive device.

Are there different types of canes?

There are three main types of canes, including:

• Standard canes: These commonly-used canes are lightweight with a single tip. And they may have an adjustable base that allows you to change the height. They might be the right option for people who do not need to put much weight on their arms while using a cane. For example, people with mild balance issues may not need to press down hard to help support their weight as they move with a cane. 

• Offset canes: Offset canes have single tips and curved handles to distribute your weight over the device's shaft. They provide support for people who sometimes need their arms to bear weight while they walk with a cane. People with leg pain from an injury or arthritis might benefit from an offset cane. They can press the cane down harder, putting more weight on their arm when necessary. 

• Quadripod canes: These canes have four small tips at the bottom. The additional prongs give you a larger base of support and allow you to bear more weight through your arm. They can stand up on their own. But they’re often heavier than a standard cane and might be harder to learn how to use. Quad canes can be especially helpful for people with weakness after a stroke. 

Any cane you use should have a comfortable handle. This will ensure that you can grip it easily without putting too much pressure on your arm, wrist, or hand. 

How do you select the proper height for your cane? 

Selecting the proper height for your cane is critical for safe and effective use. Many people use canes that are too long. Doing so can disturb your posture by forcing you to raise your shoulder and bend your elbow too much. Using a cane that is too short might cause you to lean forward or toward the cane, which can negatively affect your balance. 

Your healthcare provider can fit you for a cane and show you how to use it correctly. These steps can also help you select the proper cane height: 

1. Stand in a neutral position with the cane on your stronger side. 

2. Place the tip(s) of your cane about 2 to 4 inches to the side and 6 inches in front of your foot. 

3. Bend your elbow at a 20- to 30-degree angle, and grip the cane's handle. In this position, the cane should come up to the bone you feel outside your thigh (greater trochanter). 

4. Stand with your elbow bent at a 20- to 30-degree angle. 

5. Place the bottom of the cane 2 to 4 inches to the side and 6 inches in front of your foot.

You can also try a simpler measurement technique: 

1. Stand in a neutral position with your arms hanging at your sides. 

2. Place the cane about 6 inches to the side of your pinky toe. In this position, the cane should come up to your wrist crease.

Either method works well. So the key is to make sure the height feels comfortable.

What safety tips should you consider when using a cane? 

Once you have the right cane, consider the following safety tips: 

• Make sure your adjustable cane is locked in place before using it. 

• Check all components, especially the tip(s), for wear and tear. Replace them if they are damaged. 

• Wear comfortable walking shoes with rubber or other non-slip soles.  

• Ask someone to stay close when you practice using your cane. They can provide additional support if necessary.  

• Look out for wet, slippery, or cluttered surfaces, and try to avoid them. 

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Jasmine Marcus, PT, DPT, CSCS

Jasmine Marcus, PT, DPT, CSCS, is a licensed physical therapist and a certified strength and conditioning specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). She has practiced in orthopedic physical therapy for over 6 years, treating patients of all ages and abilities, including Olympic athletes.

Edited by:

Lauren Savage, MA

Lauren Savage, MA, is a health editor at GoodRx, where she focuses on movement, exercise, and healthy aging. She aims to provide readers with the information they need to live healthier, more active lifestyles.

Reviewed by:

Sanjai Sinha, MD

Sanjai Sinha, MD, is a board-certified physician with over 20 years of experience. He specializes in internal medicine.

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