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DISCLAIMER:
Whilst all care is taken to provide accurate information with respect to the item described, the Independent Living Centre (ILC) is not involved in product design or manufacture, and therefore not in a position to guarantee the accuracy of the information provided. Selection of equipment, which is both suitable and appropriate for individual needs remains the responsibility of the person(s) considering requisition, and no responsibility is taken by the ILC for any loss or injury caused through use of the equipment or alleged to have arisen through reliance upon information provided. As information is subject to change any enquiries should be directed to the manufacturer.
Item Details
A Guide To Selecting A Walking Stick
ILC Reference NO 42:23:999
Item sourced from ILC WA database
Short Description
This guide provides general information to assist in selecting an appropriate walking stick.
Walking aids are used by a variety of people for different reasons including:
- those recovering from injuries relating to partial to complete non weight bearing through the injured limb.
- people with reduced balance, strength or endurance when walking.
- people with pain or instability in any weight bearing joint used in walking.
It is important that the correct walking aid is selected to suit an individuals abilities and personal requirements.
The Independent Living Centre recommends that you seek the advice of a physiotherapist in the selection, fitting and in learning the correct use of any walking aid.
Price Guide
Refer to supplier details for pricing
More Details
Walking sticks provide additional support to people who are ambulant. They are available in fixed height, adjustable height and folding models. The walking stick should be fitted to the correct height to obtain maximum benefit and to maintain posture. The adjustable height models use a push pin adjustment to select the appropriate height.
A variety of hand grip shapes are available. The diameter and shape of the hand grip must be comfortable and the user should be able to maintain a strong grip.
The ferrule at the base of the walking stick should be checked regularly for wear and must be replaced before the rubber is worn out. There are several options of ferrules available.
Models / Styles
WALKING STICKS
Several types of walking sticks are available to suit individual needs and preferences.
Non Adjustable Walking Sticks
These are usually made of wood, may be stronger than adjustable styles but MUST be measured and cut to the correct height.
Single Point Walking Sticks
These height adjustable walking sticks are used for partial weight bearing and to assist with balance. Folding models are available which have a metal shaft in four segments which are linked internally with strong cord.
Three Point Walking Sticks and Four Point Walking Sticks
Three point sticks (tripods) and four point sticks (quad sticks, quadrupeds, tetrapods) can provide greater stability than single point sticks and may be more suitable for those with limited balance.
- Four point sticks are generally more stable than three point sticks.
- Four point sticks are available with small or large bases. The four points either radiate out evenly from the base (sometimes called the pyramid base), or can be offset with two feet pointing to the front and rear of the stick and the other two feet pointing out to the side. With an offset base the user is less likely to catch their foot on the base of the stick when stepping through. However, an even or pyramid base can offer more stability than a small offset base.
- Larger base quad sticks offer more support than small bases but will not fit on standard stairs.
WALKING STICK HAND GRIPS
Several types of different hand grip styles are available to suit individual needs and preferences.
Curve or "Crook" Hand Grip
These hand grips can be hung from the arm when not in use. Because of their size they do not allow the same grip strength as other hand grips styles do.
Straight Hand Grip
These hand grips can be T-shaped, swan neck or offset. Offset hand grips bring the centre of balance directly over the shaft of the stick and may be more suitable for people with impaired balance.
Contoured Hand Grips
These hand grips spread more pressure over a wider area than a conventional handle and may be more comfortable for a person with weak or painful hands. These are specific to the left or right hand.
Options
FERRULES
Rubber tips or ferrules are available in various styles including standard, "Sherpa" tip (a flexible tip) for added grip, and large diameter base ferrules for use on bowling greens or boggy ground.
WRIST STRAPS
Wrist straps made from fabric, leather or braided cord attach to the handle of the stick and are then looped around the user's wrist to keep hold of the stick when not in use.
WALKING STICK HOLDERS
A walking stick holder (eg. the "frog") attaches to the walking stick shaft and holds the stick in its resting place when not in use.
Australian And Other Standards
For some types of equipment, specific Australian Standards are applicable to the materials used in, and the manufacturing and installation of products. Compliance with relevant Standards is indicated by written certification that a product has been tested and assessed as compliant with specified Australian Standards. Purchasers are advised to check with the supplier or manufacturer of an item as to its compliance with the relevant Australian Standard(s).
Further Sources Of Information
Walking Aids. Karcz, J. Independent Living magazine. August 1998
For specific product information and further advice please contact the Independent Living Centre of WA.
Supplier Information - click to supplier for contacts details
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