Using a Cane
A cane helps you get around on your own. Many different canes are available. The most common type has a single tip. But if you have balance problems, your healthcare provider may recommend that you use a quad (four-point) cane. Always use your cane on the stronger (uninjured or unaffected) side, unless told otherwise. Use the cane on the side opposite your weaker leg.
Walking
1.
![Side view of man using a cane. The arrows show where he should put his injured foot and cane to step past his other foot.](/health-wellness/health-library/GetImage/437051)
2.
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Support your weight on both the cane and the affected leg.
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Then step through with your stronger leg.
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Put your weight on the weaker leg and start the next step.
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When using a quad cane, place the cane so that all of the tips touch the ground.
![Side view of a man using a cane. The arrow shows where he should put his other foot.](/health-wellness/health-library/GetImage/437050)
![Side view of man using a quad cane. The arrow shows where he should put his foot.](/health-wellness/health-library/GetImage/437052)
Up stairs and curbs
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If there is a railing, hold on to it with your free hand.
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Step up with your stronger leg first.
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Then move the cane and weaker leg together as a unit.
![Side view of a man using a cane on stairs. The arrows show where he should put his cane and injured foot to move up the stairs.](/health-wellness/health-library/GetImage/437053)
Down stairs and curbs