How to Use a Walking Stick

If you're having difficulty with your balance or if you plan to hike on grounds that are rough or uneven, you may want to try using a walking stick. A walking stick can help you to push off when going up or down a hill. It can be a good companion if you're at a high risk for a fall or if you plan to be on snow, ice, gravel or other surfaces where you may fall more easily. If you have difficulty bending, your walking stick can help push objects in your path out of the way. Walking sticks are also good to take stress of your back, knees, hips and ankles.

Instructions

  1. Get the Right Size

    • 1

      Get the right size for the activity you are doing. Your walking stick should be at least half your height for walking on flat surfaces.

    • 2

      Buy a stick that is at least shoulder height if you plan to walk on hilly surfaces. It is also helpful to find a walking stick with a handle in case you lose your grip and drop the stick.

    • 3

      Make sure the end of your walking stick should have a rubber tip if you will be on tile, ice or other slippery surfaces. A wider and rougher tip should be used in an outdoor setting such as woods or sandy areas.

    Using Your Walking Stick as a Cane

    • 4

      Buy a cane that has a flat top, just like a cane would have. You'll use your walking stick the same way you would use your cane.

    • 5

      Hold the walking stick on the opposite side of the leg that is affected or injured. As you walk, swing the walking stick and the affected side at the same time. Your opposite foot and the walking stick should hit the floor together.

    • 6

      Swing the unaffected leg through. By using the walking stick on the side that is opposite to the injury, you can take weight off the affected leg.

    Hiking With Your Walking Stick

    • 7

      Buy a strong and sturdy stick that can support your weight. Walking sticks that are used specifically for hiking through woods, streams and soil should be thicker then a walking stick made for regular flat surfaces.

    • 8

      When walking flat, change hands periodically. The walking stick and the opposite leg should hit the ground at the same time. Then push off the stick as you move forward.

    • 9

      If you're going uphill, place the walking stick a little out in front of you so you can pull and help yourself climb.

    • 10

      Use the same function when walking downhill. By having the stick out in front, you can slow your descent and prevent yourself from sliding down.

    • 11

      While hiking, use your walking stick to poke the ground in front of you to check for holes, loose rocks or to test how deep a stream is.

    Practice Using Your Walking Stick

    • 12

      Experiment. You want the width to be just right so your hand easily fits around it without too much overlapping of the fingers.

    • 13

      Ensure the stick feels like an extension of yourself. It may be awkward at first, but with practice your stick should feel natural to use.

    • 14

      If using a walking stick while you're injured, talk to your doctor or physical therapist about its proper use to avoid further complications.