Fitting a Cane

When a cane is to be used as a mobility aid the best method is to ask a medical professional to measure for correct length. If the user does not have one and wishes to size it on their own please follow the directions provided below.

To determine the length of a cane without the cane available.

(It takes two people to "fit" a cane)

1. Put on the usual walking shoes.

2. Stand naturally upright as possible.

3. Let the arms fall to the sides naturally with a normal bend at the elbow.

4. Using a tape measure or yard stick, have the second person measure the distance from the bottom crease at the wrist down to the floor.

To measure the length when the cane is available

Turn the cane upside down and place the handle on the floor. Use the steps above. Have the second person mark the shaft of the cane at the bottom crease of the wrist.

To shorten a walking cane.

Almost all the canes that we sell come with a rubber tip. This tip may be removed. Or in some cases the cane will come with a tip that can be used to shorten the cane. If it is tight ...a squirt of WD-40 works wonders. Twist the tip off instead of pulling.

(please note certain canes such as canes with brass tips like sword canes may not be shortened)

The shaft of the cane should be cut flat. Most home supply stores have saws available and may cut it for free or for a nominal fee. Just make sure that the wood is cut flat. Some people use a mitre box for an even cut.

Reattach the rubber tip and you are finished.

PLEASE REMEMBER CANES CAN BE SHORTENED BUT THEY CANNOT BE LENGTHENED.

If you can not measure the person

Sizing most canes is a quick and easy process. Just make sure that the wood is cut flat and use the steps above when the cane is available. Most home supply stores have saws available and may cut it for free or for a nominal fee.