Recently several people have asked me about
buying a walking cane as a gift for someone's
birthday, special day (Mother's, Father's,
Grandparents') and just what the pros and cons
of the different kinds might be. So here's a
quick nutshell summary on the whole walking cane
"thing." When in doubt, it's always a good idea
to consult with a physical therapist about cane
choices. What's good for one user may be not so
good for another.
 What
we most commonly think of when someone says
"cane" is the C-shaped or "Tourist" crook.
Think "candy-cane shape." This cane is easy to
find in most pharmacies and drug stores as well
as from medical equipment suppliers. Many have
height-adjustable metal shafts.
The C-handle cane is most often appropriate for
those with a small walking impairment or a
temporary injury. They may not be as comfortable
or offer as much balance assistance for heavy or
long-term use as these:
Canes with "Derby" or "Fritz" handles are
more supportive and comfortable for heavy use.
These straighter handles accommodate more of the
user's palm, and so do not require as firm a
grip as the C-handle canes. This can be a
blessing for anyone with arthritis. Many people
think these flatter-handle canes are "classier
looking" than the standard C-handle, as well.
Fritz and Derby handle canes are often available
with adjustable shafts, and many decorative
colors and patterns are available for dressy
occasions or just for fun.
 "Anatomically
correct" canes have funny looking handles
that are designed to specifically fit either the
left or the right hand, rather like a glove for
the palm of the hand. While they may be "funny
looking," anatomically correct canes are by far
the most comfortable and stable canes for most
people. The shafts of these canes may be just as
polished and decorative as with Fritz and Derby
canes.
 Quad
Canes are designed to give maximum support
with a rectangular base and four cane feet. The
wide base gives more stability to a walker who
might have trouble balancing on the single tip
of a traditional cane. Quad canes are usually
fairly utilitarian, with flat rubberized handles
and adjustable metal shafts.
 Hemi-Walker
canes are a cross between a cane and a
traditional four-legged walker. Although it
resembles a walker, a hemi-walker is designed to
be used with one hand. Hemis are often used by
people who are learning to graduate from a
walker to a cane during recovery. Before
purchasing a hemi-walker it is a good idea to
consult with a physical therapist about the
suitability and size of this kind of walking
aid.
 Decorative
or dress canes are designed less for support
than for the statement they may make. Round
tops, animal heads, and exotic materials are
often featured on dress canes. These handles can
be very uncomfortable for heavy or long-term
use, but they are fun for special occasions.
Most dress canes are not adjustable, which means
that they must be cut to size.
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