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(Medical-NewsWire.com, June 30, 2014 ) Portland, Oregon -- Gravity Mobility Aids explaining the Proper Use of Walking Canes
Walking canes or other walking aids are most commonly used by the elderly. And yet serious injuries among such elderly are increasing. Why? Canes and walkers assist the elderly with their balance, mobility, and/or frailty issues. However sometimes these assistive aids can be the actual fall hazard.
The elderly at risk are ones who:
• Use the wrong type of walking cane
• Use their walking cane incorrectly or have never been instructed on correct use
• Borrow walking aids
• Don't have their walking cane set at the correct height for them
The correct type
It is important to look for a cane that can support one's body weight. Not everyone is a petite size and for the larger person it is imperative their walking cane can support them. For this reason folding canes are not recommended for taller or heavier persons. Rather a sturdy collapsible walking cane would provide safer support. Also a walking cane that can remain standing on its own is a great benefit. Bending to pick up a fallen cane is a serious threat to those with balance impairments or hip injuries.
The Correct Use
Many cane users make the mistake of holding their walking cane on their injured side. This is incorrect. It should always be held on the opposite side to their injury. For example: If the left leg is injured, then it is the right hand that must hold the walking cane. That way when they step forward on the injured left leg, the right hand holding the walking cane will also move forward, according to a natural walking style. Their body weight will then be dispersed between the injured leg and the walking cane.
One cane, one person
As tempting as it may be to borrow someone else's cane, this could cause issues later. Another person's walking cane may be very well suited for their body type, however, do not assume it will also be suitable for anyone of a similar size. If it is too heavy or too light, the temptation to compensate for this in order to adapt to the cane can cause postural problems further down the track.
Setting the right height
Making certain a walking cane is the right height will reduce a lot of pressure on the arms, shoulders, wrists and back. The handle of the cane should be at the same height as the crease in the wrist. Height adjustable canes are highly recommended.
Walking canes are there to support and encourage mobility. They should never be the cause of decreasing mobility. It is time for the walking cane to move into the 21st century. American company Gravity Mobility Aids has done just that with their latest model of walking cane - The Handy Cane. Specifically designed to tick all the boxes for those with varying mobility issues.
About Gravity Mobility Aids
This American company sells a uniquely designed patented walking cane called The Handy Cane which has been receiving 5 star reviews. The owner operator of Gravity Mobility Aids has 20 years of Aged Care experience. Understanding the frailty issues the elderly suffer has been the driving force of this specifically designed walking cane.
Gravity Mobility Aids
Vanessa Parker
(503) 736 5916
VanessaParker@gravitymobilityaids.com
Source: EmailWire.Com 
Source: EmailWire.com
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