How to Figure Weight Restrictions on a Walking Cane

  1. People use walking sticks in different ways.  Few people lean down on them directly from above; instead they lean on them at a variety of angles depending on their disability if they have one, general state of health, how good their sense of balance is and many other factors.  Therefore, although it is possible to test a stick’s strength by applying pressure from above and seeing at what point it buckles or breaks, this in no way reflects the reality of how people use walking sticks.  
  2. The amount of force a person exerts on a walking stick is linked to their physical condition, not their overall weight.  A  225 lb. person using a stick for light balance and support will exert far less force on it than an 112 lb. person who needs to place a great deal of weight on their stick.

People usually assume all walking canes to be very strong. However, this isn’t the case. For instance, a decorative cane will not be as resilient as the Irish shillelagh. A cane’s weight restrictions should be a part of your decision-making since some canes are just not meant to support more than the average range of body weight. Again, averages can vary a lot. Many times, cane-makers don't follow international protocols related to a cane’s weight-bearing capacity. Even when gifting a cane, you need to be careful about the cane’s intended usage and the kind of person who would be using it. Canes for men are usually much heavier than fashion canes for women. Canes made from carbon fiber or anodized aluminum might seem light but they can match hardwood canes in terms of strength and weight-bearing capacity! Here, we provide you an easier way of decoding walking cane weight restrictions to ensure you make a sensible, truly value-for-money purchase. 

Walking canes are a wonderful way to help you get around. To make sure you get the most out of your walking cane it is important to know just what to look for when purchasing a new walking cane. You will be leaning on your cane with nearly your full weight, so finding the right cane to support your weight is imperative.

Following is a simple way to understand

SM (small) 60-140 pounds
MED (medium) 140-180 pounds
LRG (large) 180-220 pounds
XLRG (extra large) 220 – 300
XXLRG (extra strong) 300 - 500 Heavy Duty Styles

These are the suggested walking cane weight restrictions. If you have any questions ask your doctor or therapist for more information.  We only use this information as a guide and it is by no means the medical response you may receive from your therapist.  There are many factors involved we are unable to assist you with.

 

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