Measuring Cane Length

We will size your cane, upon request, to the proper length, free of charge. However, once a cane has been cut, the purchase becomes personalized and  non-refundable. "UNCUT" is an option.

• Walking canes are generally sold at a standard length of 36"-37". Unless you have a height of about six feet or taller, you will need to have your cane cut to the proper length.

• The cane length necessary for each individual is not an objective preference but a requirement for optimal support and comfort.

• The walking cane should, generally, be held on the side opposite to the leg, foot or hip that has reduced function.

Ideally, if requiring a walking cane as a mobility aid, consult a Physical Therapist to determine the proper length.

Otherwise, please carefully follow the proceeding guidelines to determine the proper cane length:

It is strongly recommended that you have someone assist you when measuring for the proper cane length for the first time.

DETERMINING PROPER CANE LENGTH.

Standing erect with both arms relaxed at your sides and wearing the shoes that your normally wear, measure from the floor at the outer side of the heel to your mid wrist (second skin crease of inner wrist)

AT PROPER CANE LENGTH:

• Shoulders should be even with each other. If you have an existing cane, look in the mirror  with cane in place. If the shoulder of arm holding cane is higher than the other, your existing cane is too long. If this shoulder falls lower than the other, your existing cane is too short.

• Elbow flexion of about 25 degree angle, when in use.   

RELATIVE PERSPECTIVE

Cane length is usually about one half the cane user's height, in inches, wearing shoes.*

Example: Height (with shoes) = six feet = 72 inches

Half of 72 inches = 36" cane length

* Please note: The "relative perspective" calculation, explained above, is not the ideal means of determining proper cane length but serves to provide a general perspective. The ideal and accurate method is that which is described above, measuring "heel to wrist".

MEASURING LENGTH OF EXISTING CANE

To measure the length of an existing cane*, measure from highest point of cane handle down the entire length of the cane including the rubber tip. However, this is not recommended unless the "heel to wrist" method, described above, was used to determine the proper length of the existing cane.

*Measuring an existing ADJUSTABLE CANE is NOT RECOMMENDED to determine the correct length for your cane. Follow the "heel to mid-wrist method" previously described.

CUTTING EXISTING CANE TO PROPER LENGTH

If you prefer to order your walking cane or walking stick "UNCUT" and size it yourself, please follow these simple instructions:

1. Measure from highest point of cane handle to end of rubber tip.

2. Subtract desired length from existing length to determine the length difference to be cut off.

3. Remove rubber tip.

4. Measure from end of cane, the difference in length you've determined in step 2.

5. Mark off with masking tape around circumference of cane.

6. Using edge of masking tape as your guide, cut straight across using household saw *.

7. Replace rubber tip securely.

*If it's not feasible to cut the cane yourself, the large home improvement stores in your area will cut your cane to your specified length, free of charge or for nominal fee.

For helpful information on "How to Hold and Use a Cane or Walking Stick", visit wikiHow