MEASUREMENTS

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CANE MEASUREMENT PROCEDURE

The cane user stands as naturally upright as possible on a firm level floor, near a wall, wearing his/her most commonly worn shoes. For correct length, the cane user must not lean forward, keep the shoulders and arms in a relaxed position, and the arm being measured must be naturally flexed at the elbow between a 20 to 30 degree angle. The measuring tape must start at the center of the palm, and go down perpendicular to the floor, 4 to 6 inches lateral to the front of the shoe as pictured to the right.

SELF-MEASUREMENT NOTES

The appropriate length of the cane will vary accordingly to fit each individual cane user's measurements & needs. For maximum benefits, we recommend cane measurement by Health Care Practitioners, especially for long-term cane users.

The self-measurement option is an alternative for those who are confident that they can easily follow the cane measurement procedure described above. It is, however, necessary to have another person assist you for the entire measurement procedure.

The length of the cane is, in part, determined by the physical fitness of the cane user. Upper body strength or weakness is the key determining factor. For those with less upper body strength, measure the distance from the center of the palm to the floor, with the elbow flexed in a 20 degree angle. For those with greater upper body strength, measure with the elbow flexed in a 30 degree angle. Elbow flexion should not exceed a 35 degree angle.