Things to Consider
Sticks as Gifts
Right or Left Hand
Length
Cutting to Length
Colour
Engraving
How to Use a Walking Stick
How to Hold the Handle
Often the person most resistant to using a walking stick is the one who needs it most. Walking sticks make a great gift for this reason. As a gift it becomes rude not to use it, and it may just save someone you love from a fall or worse.
Our walking stick handles are designed specifically for either the right or left hand in order to maximise comfort. Therefore it is essential that this is understood when placing the order. If unsure, review the video below "How to Use a Walking Stick". If the walking stick is intended as a mobility aid following injury or surgery; or is intended to assist someone elderly or otherwise frail, it is recommended that a health professional be consulted to provide patient specific advice using the walking stick. However, as a rule of thumb, the walking stick should be used in the hand opposite the affected leg. I.e., if the walking stick is needed following a left hip operation, the walking stick should be used in the right hand. The walking stick then swings front to back in harmony with the swing of the left leg. If the walking stick is used as general support and not for a specific injury, order a handle that matches the left or right handedness of the person using the stick.
When measuring for the correct length it is easiest if someone other than the user of the walking stick does the measuring. To get the correct length. • Wear shoes most likely to be worn when using the cane. • Stand as you would normally with arms at your side and a slight natural bend at the elbow. • Identify the slightly knobbly bone that protrudes a little just above the skin folds of the wrist (The Pisiform Bone). • Measure from that point to the ground. This is about the right length. HOWEVER Bear in mind: The correct length may need to be a little longer depending on posture and other physical variables — so some discretion is required. For example - If the stick is being used as general support rather than to assist with recovery from an injury or an operation, it may need to be longer. Err on the long side if in doubt, extra can always be cut off (See below) If you are measuring for yourself, stand next to a table and place books on the table to a level that corresponds to the height that suits. Then measure from the top of the books to the floor.
Ideally the walking stick is ordered at the correct length (See Above) but if this is not possible or the measurement has been miscalculated, ensure the end is cut at right angles to the shaft using a very fine toothed saw. (These can be purchased from Bunnings or Mitre 10 for around $12).
Standard finish for the stick is a highly polished handle matched with a polyurethane natural finish cane shaft. However colour can be added to the shaft if required. This incurs added cost but all we need to know is what colour (using the Resene colour charts). The shaft is painted then "de-stressed" and finished with polyurethane.
Engraved messages can be added to the handles. This option can be added when ordering the walking stick. If you need inspiration for messages consider song titles, lyrics or poetry.
The HAB Handle is designed to be used with the back three fingers curved under the handle with the thumb and fore finger in the dimples on the shaft.
Do's and Dont's
Do: consult your medical professional to ensure the walking stick offers the support you need.
Don’t: regard the use of your walking stick as a capitulation to old age or infirmity. Our walking sticks have got style and gravitas, and will help you remain active and mobile.
Do: regard your walking stick as a fashion accessory. Embrace it’s use as you would prescription sunglasses.
Don’t: leave your walking stick at home, it should be part of your wardrobe.
Do: order the correct length. If in doubt a longer stick can always be cut shorter.
Don’t: feel offended if someone has bought you our walking stick as a gift. They love you and they want you to remain fit and healthy.
Do: everything possible to remain active but avoid falls. Beyond a certain level of fitness or age, injuries resulting from falls are the greatest contributor to a poor quality of life.
Don’t: feel shy using your walking stick.
Do: consider our walking stick as an ideal gift for a bumbling loved one.
Don’t: butter your toast with a walking stick.