FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can you shorten a wooden cane?
A standard wooden cane size may be too long for you. Fortunately, you can cut your cane down to a size that suits you. But first, you need to make some accurate measurements. Start by putting on your usual walking shoes and stand as naturally as possible with your arms to your sides. Then, flip the walking cane with the bottom tip facing up. While holding this position, have a friend mark where the shaft meets the last crease of your wrist. When completing this step, remove the rubber tip and cut the cane at the mark before replacing the tip. If you are not handy with a saw, you can get your cane cut at a local hardware store or skip the cutting altogether by buying an Offset Adjustable Height Cane.
Are canes allowed on airplanes?
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will allow you to take a walking cane on an airplane, provided you need it for mobility assistance. They will also accept other mobility aids like walking chairs. However, if you pack your cane in a regular carry-on bag, it must fit within the airlines' carry-on bag size limits. So, it may be better to carry your cane on board in your hand. If you have any doubts, contact the airline you intend to use.
What are the different types of walking canes?
Using the wrong type of cane for your present need and condition can lead to poor walking posture or a fall injury. So, it's crucial to know the different types of canes because they offer graduating degrees of assistance. You may be familiar with the "C" cane. It is a standard cane with a single shaft that curves into a handle at the top. In general, "C" canes are suitable for people who need minimal assistance with balance and unweighing of the opposite leg. Except for the straight handle, a functional grip cane looks like a "C" cane. But the functional grip gives you more control and more balance assistance.
If you need more balance support, quad canes have a rectangle base with four legs that provide more stability than the "C" or the functional grip canes. This capacity is why they are often the choice for people with paralysis of one arm or leg. However, for optimal support from a cane, the hemiwalker is the winner. It combines the benefits of quad canes and walkers to support users with severe paralysis or someone transferring from a walker.
Where can I buy walking canes?
Along with finding the top brands at the best prices, Allegro Medical has a broad selection of quads, traditional wood, folding, and specialty canes. You can also find cane accessories like quad cane tips and cane holders. In addition, Allegro Medical is a one-stop shop with excellent customer service and free shipping specials for all your medical supplies.
Does Medicaid or Medicare cover walking canes?
Medicaid and Medicare cover walking canes like the Spiral Tourist Rosewood Cane under the durable medical equipment (DME) classification. Medicare pays 80% after you meet the Part B deductible. But Medicaid's coverage varies from state to state. Also, both agencies could decide to pay for only renting your walking cane, depending on your medical condition. Before Medicaid or Medicare will cover your DME, your physician and walking cane supplier must enroll in these programs. Also, your doctor must verify that you need the cane for medical purposes.
What is the proper height for a walking cane?
Your walking cane should be tall enough to touch the last crease in your wrist when you stand straight with your arms hanging naturally to your side with your elbows slightly bent. Also, you should measure using the hand on the uninjured side.
Are folding canes safe?
Folding canes are safe, durable, convenient, and easy to assemble. They are ideal mobility aids for traveling and storing in tight spaces. Nevertheless, some people may perceive that folding canes are not as steady or durable as conventional canes. But the reality is folding canes like the aluminum canes with gel grip provide the same support and durability as traditional canes.
MEDICAL ADVICE DISCLAIMER
The information, including but not limited to text, graphics, images, charts, and any other material on this site, is intended for informational purposes only and does not take the place of medical guidance provided by your physician. No information on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified medical professional about your condition or circumstances before undertaking a new healthcare regimen.