A quad cane is one of the best options for individuals that need extra support and stability for walking. They are typically constructed just a bit sturdier and heavier than a standard cane. These canes are very helpful in transitioning from a seated to standing position or vice versa without the problem of the bottom slipping out as is common with standard canes.
A quad cane appears just like a standard cane on the top, but instead of simply having one tip that touches the ground just a short distance from the end of the cane there is a plate. On each of the four corners of this plate, which can be small or large, there is a leg. This turns a standard cane with one contact point with the floor into a cane with four contact points to the floor increasing stability and weight bearing ability.
Who Should Use A Quad Cane?
Quad canes can be used by people of all ages after a foot, leg or hip injury or during recovery. They are often a transition assisted walking device from crutches to walking on your own without any devices.
A quad walking cane is also a very good idea for people recovering from a stroke and the elderly or individual that may have balance or stability problems. However, it is important to carefully choose the right quad cane option.
Small Base Quad Cane versus Large Base Quad Cane
The small based quad cane is a great choice if there is some need for stability and support but generally balance is good. The smaller base also makes this a very easy cane to move about with, travel with and use up and down most flights of stairs or even steps at a home.
The large base quad cane, as the name implies, has a significantly larger base so the four legs are more distant from each other. This provides a greater stability for these canes makes them the best option for individuals that may have balance concerns or difficulty in transitioning from standing to sitting positions.
Choosing the right quad cane at Irish Walking Sticks may actually include choosing one of the small and one of the large base options. You could choose the cane based on where you will be walking and what you think your needs may be.
