How to Use a Cane

by A.

Question:
I don't understand the logic of using the cane opposite my weak leg? If my knee is going to collapse, I'd rather have support on that side.

Can you post some pictures of the different things you're talking about?

Answer:
Hi A.,
I totally agree with you. I didn't really understand it either, but Cir's PT was trying really hard to get him to use it on his left side instead of the right. If you learned to use it on the weaker side and that feels more comfortable to you, I say stay with it. Just take your time and go slowly. Make sure that you have solid footing before you take each step.

And it also sounds more like your problem is not as much balance as it is support or reinforcement. It always seemed to me that the weaker leg should be in the middle, but I'm not the expert. But here is a paragraph from Fashionable Canes - they don't claim to be experts either, but they sell canes.

I guess what's happening is if you use the cane on the opposite side of your weak leg, you are creating balance by having the cane on the other side and not on the weak side, if that makes sense.

"Using your cane properly will increase stability and balance while walking or standing. You should use your cane on the opposite side of your injury or weakness, regardless of which hand is your dominant one. Put all of your weight on your unaffected leg, then step with your affected leg and the cane at the same time a comfortable distance forward. With your weight supported on both your cane and your affected leg, step through with your unaffected leg."
(Fashionable Canes)

Yes, I will try and get Cir to help me take a few pictures to show what I'm talking about. And hopefully other visitors will comment on this question.