Walking Stick Safety Guide

Walking Stick-Related Injuries

• 41,035 injuries in the US annually
• 29% occur on the lower trunk
• 24% require hospitalisation
• 15% occur to the head
• 76% occur to those over 64
• 58% occur around the home

Tips for Walking Sticks Users

• Don't wear slippers: wear supportive shoes instead of slippers
• Proper lighting: make sure hallways and stairs are properly lit
• Avoid hazards: loose rugs, wet leaves, icy pavement, stairs et cetera

Common Mistakes

• Leaning too heavily on the stick
• Using the stick on the same side as the injury
• Not taking ferrule into account when cutting stick
• Using furniture instead of cane for support around the house

Ensure Your Walking Stick's Safe

• Check wooden sticks for any cracks
• Check for bends or loose parts
• Check that the ferrule isn't worn down
• Check adjustable sticks aren't worn around joints

How to Walk with a Stick

On flat surfaces:

• Ensure that the stick is on the opposite side to your injury
• Level your shoulders and bend your elbows slightly
• Hit the floor with your stick and injured foot/leg at the same time
• Swing the unaffected foot through without overextending

On stairs:

• Hold onto a handrail whenever possible
• Place the stick on the same step as the affected leg
• Lead with the healthy leg going up, injured leg going down

Can Proper Technique Help You?

Yes! How can it help?

• Relieve back pain
• Help you live independently
• Put less strain on the body
• Help avoid slips and falls