Are Quad Canes The Right Choice? Understanding The Benefits
What Is A Quad Cane?
A quad cane is a walking aid with a wide base and four prongs at the bottom. It provides moderate support to the user and can help prevent falls.
A quad cane is recommended for people with any of the following conditions:
- Neurological deficits like balance impairments
- Weakness on one side of the body
- Pain or discomfort from conditions like arthritis
The main difference between a quad cane and a standard cane is the base of support. A standard cane has a single prong, whereas a quad cane has four prongs. There are two types of quad canes:
- A small-quad cane is a cane with a square-like base that has four prongs and rubber tips. It provides more support than a standard cane but less support than a walker or large-based quad cane.
- A large-based quad cane has a large rectangular-shaped base of support with 4 prongs and rubber tips at the bottom. It provides the most support as far as canes go and can be helpful if someone needs a lot of stability when walking to prevent falls.
For additional information about canes and other mobility aids, check if you have free access to Trualta’s learning library.
Features Of Quad Canes
Quad canes have several features that distinguish them from other mobility aids. By understanding the benefits of using a quad cane, you can determine if this walking aid is the best choice for the person you care for. Important features to consider include:
- Stability. The wide base of support evenly distributes weight, providing more support to the person using the cane.
- Adjustable. The cane height can be adjusted up or down to best suit the user’s height. When the user lets their arm hang next to the cane, there should be a slight bend in the elbow, and the grip should hit the user’s wrist.
- Stands on its own. This type of cane can stand up on its own. This is an advantage because it allows the user to use both hands to safely push off from their chair before they reach to use the cane.
Note that quad canes are heavier and bulkier than other options because of their wide base. They can be challenging to use in crowded areas or small spaces.
How To Properly Use A Quad Cane
If you’ve decided that a quad cane is the best option for the person you care for, here are some tips to ensure they use the cane correctly:
- The cane should be held in the hand that is opposite of the weaker side
- Advance the cane first, ensuring all four prongs touch the ground so it doesn’t tip over
- Step with the weaker leg, pressing lightly on the cane for stability
- Then, step with the stronger leg
- Repeat the sequence
Is A Quad Cane Right For Your Loved One?
A quad cane can be helpful to provide stability and support when your loved one is walking. By understanding the benefits and the drawbacks, you can determine if it’s the best assistive device for the person you care for to keep them safe and prevent falls.
To learn additional information about quad canes and other mobility aids, check if you have free access to Trualta’s learning library.
References
- Canadian Red Cross. (n.d.). Instructions for care and use of a cane. Retrieved from https://cdn.redcross.ca/prodmedia/crc/documents/How-We-Help/Community-Health-Services-in-Canada/Instructions-for-care-and-use-of-a-cane_1.pdf
- Warrior Service Company. (n.d.). Why you should look into a quad cane over a single point cane now. Retrieved from https://www.warriorservicecompany.org/why-you-should-look-into-a-quad-cane-over-a-single-point-cane-now
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (n.d.). How to use crutches, canes, and walkers. Retrieved from https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/recovery/how-to-use-crutches-canes-and-walkers/
- Rehabmart. (n.d.). Walking canes: How to choose the best one for you. Retrieved from https://www.rehabmart.com/post/walking-canes-how-to-choose-the-best-one-for-you?srsltid=AfmBOoq8eTImHP-cO-9oG5_tmt7DHGgdSBf4xFcekHQG4NRNdFZOmQ0W
