Guest Author - Wollie Woehler

Whether you call it a walking stick or a cane, there is more to it than most of us may think. Even the material it is made from, varies according to the user’s need.

In ancient days it was used by Sheppards to control and lead their sheep. No traveller went on the road without a hefty cane for protection against thieves and to keep animals in line. This plain stick later became a token of authority and prestige carried by kings and heads of states. It is said that Egyptian rulers have carried staffs varying from three to six feet in length. These were often topped by an ornamental knob in the shape of a lotus, a symbol of long life. (It seems to be more of a burden than a pleasure to walk with such a long stick, imagine your cane being longer than yourself!)

Knew it matters in which hand you hold your cane?? During the Middle Ages, (in what is now Europe), a sceptre carried in the right hand was a symbol of royal power, while one in the left hand represented justice.

The distinction between sticks and canes is based on the materials used; sticks were made of ivory, whalebone, ebony and other valuable woods. Canes were made from Malacca or rattan, bamboo and other hardy reeds. A person’s wealth and social status was shown through the quality of the cane he carried

In 1702, the men of London were required to have a license in order to carry a walking stick or cane. It was considered a privilege to walk with a cane therefore they were required to have a licence. Without a license they were excluded from the privilege.,

One example of a cane license reads:

“You are hereby required to permit the bearer of this cane to pass and repasts through the streets of London, or anyplace within ten miles of it, without theft or molestation: Provided that he does not walk with it under his arm, brandish it in the air, or hang it on a button, in which case it shall be forfeited, and I hereby declare it forfeited to anyone who shall think it safe to take it from him.
- Signed________. (Source: Lester and Goerke Accessories of Dress, Peoria, IL. The Manual Arts Press.)”

What are the benefits of a walking stick or cane? You are safer on your legs as the walking stick provides a “third foot” on the ground. If your balance is not stable, it acts as a stabilizing factor as result of another physical point of contact with the ground which alters the bio mechanics of walking affecting your balance. The stability of the cane takes off some of the stress as result of painful joints and provide stability
to the user.

What is important when choosing a walking stick or cane?

The length of the cane is important, if it is too short, it cannot provide the necessary support. If it is too long, it will be uncomfortable to fit its purpose. How do you know what length is right for you?

It is important to ware the shoes you will be Waring when walking with your cane. Stand up right with your arm slightly bent. When the handle reaches the wrist bone, the walking stick is at the recommended length.

The next point to take in consideration is whether the cane is for occasional or heavy use as that is important in the selection of the handle. Make sure you buy your cane from a knowledgeable supplier and not on the street corner or at a flea market.

Your weight is another factor when choosing a cane or walking stick. If the walking stick is too heavy, it is very tiresome to use. If it is too light it might not be stable enough to carry your weight.

Buying a walking stick for someone else? A guideline here is that 98% of peoples cane measurements will be within one inch of half their height. If you are unsure, buy a longer cane as it can be shortened where as a too short cane cannot be made longer.

Please consult your doctor to find out what kind of stick you need as these are general guidelines which differ from person to person.