Over 25 million Americans live with disabilities, making getting around a lot more complicated than it should be. Thankfully, a wide range of mobility aids is available, like walking sticks, to help those people.
Are you wondering if using a walking cane is right for you? Below, we run through the top five walking cane benefits.
1. Take the Pressure Off Your Limbs
Walking can put a lot of pressure on your hips and knees, especially as you age, or if you have hurt your knee or hip somehow. Perhaps you were in an accident, or you are an athlete-in-training.
Knowing when to use a walking cane can help. Using your cane regularly may reduce the pain associated with your injuries and could even delay the need for surgery on your hips or knees.
2. Improve Your Speed
If you prefer to get around quickly, a walking cane can help you get your speed back up. A cane helps you to balance better, meaning you will not have to put so much effort into staying upright as you walk. And you will be able to navigate curbs or other obstacles easily.
3. Stay Healthy
Falling over can be dangerous for older people. They often end up hurting themselves severely. One of the chief advantages of a walking cane is that you’ll be much less likely to fall, preserving your body and your dignity.
However, you need to take the time to care for a walking cane if you want it to continue to support you effectively.
4. Reduce Muscle Strain
Hunching over while you walk can cause a lot of stress on the muscles in your back.
By using a cane, you’ll be able to keep yourself upright and reduce pain. You transfer the impact of walking and balance on your body to the stick, causing minor damage to your muscles and, even more importantly, your spine.
5. Recover Faster and More Easily
One of the most important reasons to use a walking cane is to help post-surgery recovery.
Depending on the type of surgery, you may have trouble standing or walking. You may find yourself getting frustrated or exhausted quickly. And if you attempt to do your everyday activities without aid, you may even cause further injury or form bad habits that linger long after you have fully recovered.
This can increase the risk of having other issues in the future. Treat yourself with a cane if you want to feel better faster and stay well long-term.
Reap These Walking Cane Benefits Today
As you can see, many walking cane benefits can help people, both young and old. Talk to your doctor or other health care provider to find out if you are among those people who should use a walking cane.
Do you want more advice on accessibility-related issues? Then, take a look at some of our other helpful posts.