3 Walking Stick Mistakes to AVOID! (for Seniors)
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- Опубликовано: 19 июн 2024
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In this episode, Farnham's leading over-50's physiotherapist, Will Harlow, reveals 3 major mistakes walking stick users make and how to avoid them!
If you're suffering from nagging knee pain that hurts in the morning and stops you from walking as far as you'd like, you can take our free knee pain guide - which will give you 5 expert tips to put a stop to knee pain at home - by visiting here: ht-physio.co.uk/knee-pain-gui...
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If you're over-50 with a painful problem in the Farnham, Surrey area, you can learn more about how Will Harlow and HT Physio can help you overcome a painful problem here: ht-physio.co.uk/
*Any information in this video should not be used as a substitute for individual medical advice. Please seek advice from your local healthcare professional before taking action on the information in this video.* Full policy here: ht-physio.co.uk/injury-discla...
Halfway thru your video I stopped it, took my walking stick down to the shed and sawed 3 inches off the end. What a difference! I am 75 yoa and have rather bad arthritis in my left hip, so my stick is my best friend. Thank you so much for the advice. Much appreciated.
Great tips. One tip for you. Change the title of this video by omitting the "seniors over 50". This will attract anyone interested in learning walking stick tips. Seniors aren't the only people that use walking sticks...
💯
Agree, Walking sticks for ALL ages.
I'm young but I'm learning to use a cane
Will states in the intro that he is lead physio for the over 50s in his practice. So his target audience is the over 50s seniors not younger people. No need to change the title.
I was 40 , when I fell and broke my leg in two places. So I need the stick for a while.
Like just about everyone else here Will, my stick height was adjusted incorrectly for me. I have adjusted it to wrist height as you demonstrated and taken my dog for a walk round the block. I couldn’t believe the difference! My back was upright and the dog and I had a lovely gentle stroll in the evening sunlight. We really enjoyed it! Thank you so much. Your videos are so good and I love the way you explain everything. Each time I play one of them I feel I have visited you in your consulting room 😊
So pleased to hear and thank you for the kind words!
@@HT-Physio My sister is asking if you have also done a video on elbow crutches please?
WoW, that was educational!
No wonder I did not like the stick before
4:21 my stick was the ‘correct height’ or almost.
I made it higher, as I felt the stick was making me bend forward which I didn’t want to do.
I will try to alter it as you say. Thank you
My PT showed me how to properly use a stick after my knee replacement surgery. The first time I walked in with the stick instead of the walker, he I was doing it 100% wrong. He adjusted the height, changed hands and got me going properly. Once I got the hang of it, the difference in support and balance was tremendous.
So pleased to hear!
Will, I have vertigo - no injury, but some arthritis in lower spine that sometimes causes what my PT thought was referent nerve pain. The exercises he taught me have allowed me to walk at least 30 mins per day.
If it’s just for balance, would I use a walking stick in my dominant right hand??
Love your videos!!
Same happened to me almost exactly.
V nice. My stick hight was high. Never realized. Thanks.
😮ù
This was most helpful. I've been using a stick since an accident 3yrs ago & my posture is worse. I'll try to adapt your methods to help improve this. Thanks to you Will, I now know my stick is not set at the correct height for me. Thank you so much 👍
My pleasure! Pleased to be of service!
As a retired Canadian physio who worked ortho for 40+ years. I loved your video and am so glad that you put it out to educate people.
More than happy to help!
Hello willharlow iam aold lady ihad afall some years back i have afracture but i did not want to do surgery as my left leg is weak deformity iwas born like that so iam using the stick icannot walk without the stick its ahabbite so how can you show me some tips how to work woithout stick ihave back pain and both my knees are painfull so what you can advisa me how to start to work without the stickiam allway at home i dont go out can you please will advise me what to do how to stop walkingwith out the stick iam just fedup with the stick
Thanks will harlow ihope you can help me to stop using the stick my is ursula from bahrainbye
This is an excellent lesson. Why? Because I have had therapists try to tell me some, but not all, of the points made here, BUT they did not seem to understand the "why" of each thing. You demonstrated the techniques, AND explained the "why" of each thing. Good job!
Thank you for teaching the right way to use stick. Appreciate your lesson
Timely information! Been using cane wrong, can't wait to change things up! Arm was getting tired and back has not been happy. Thanks for this great info! 👍🤗 Update: a day after viewing this video I implemented the suggestions. After practicing the proper way to walk, it's great! And it's becoming easier the more I practice. My arm and back are happy, thanks! 👍👍👍
Fantastic! So pleased to hear that :)
I have been concerned about my posture for ages. Now I realize I have been using my stick all wrong. Thanks Will.
Welcome!
Thank you. I enjoy walking with my walking stick. You explain and demonstrate very well.
@@HT-Physio😮😮😮
Nice video but ... I take issue with your 2nd point. As a person who has had serious knee and foot injuries of my right leg, when transitioning from crutches to a single cane it was necessary to give significant stabalized support to the weak leg. Using a cross body stick could not provide this, it left far too much weight on the injured leg unless I leaned heavily to the off side, which put an unacceptable load on my arm. However, by holding my right arm straight at my side, resting against my hip for stability, and placing the point of the stick on the ground close to the foot and at mid length of the foot, I could easily take up to 1/2 my body weight on the stick and walk normally. The opposite side arm swings normally which maintains dynamic balance in the same way as a soldier marching with a rifle at the slope.Take a look at FDR as he walked with his son on one side for support and his cane on the other side taking his body weight, he used the same technique and many people never knew that he had been crippled by polio!
Will, you are a real gift to this world. Cannot tell you how much I appreciate both your book and all these videos. Thank you!
How very kind of you!
Wow! I’m just going to say the same as others, but this has been a really helpful, informative and easy to understand video. I had no idea about all this - I bought a stick a few years ago, because I suffer with bouts of extreme dizziness and it helps me feel safer if I go outside. I try to only use the stick when I need it, but when I do, I’ll remember these three rules!
I really appreciate your clear teaching style: no waffle - just direct and to the point, but with enough repetitions so I could learn while watching you.
You are so generous with your help to us oldies, without being patronising in any way 😅
Thanks a million ❤
I'm 70, worked in the woods and have had a farm for most of my life. I'm ALWAYS on the lookout for a naturally formed walking stick or cane, sadly, how many beautiful canes I have thrown away because I thought that they were too short. I shall change my ways, thank you very much.
For years I have been told by doctors and physios to have the stick longer and have the stick arm bent. It's nice to see someone with a bit of sense.
As a yoga instructor, I get seniors in my class and I always emphasize strengthening the back by creating lift in the torso. This corrects posture. If the knee is weak, I recommend doing a hero's pose for stretch and recommend squat crunches to strengthen the knee joints and build muscle mass on the quads. So many of my elder students now stand straighter and upright and in all cases, eliminate any knee pain. No stick required after.
Well, THAT answered a lot of questions for me! Flippin stick was at wrong height. Thanks SO much Will, you are a Godsend 🤗❣
You just explained my 4 pet peeves of what I see people doing WRONG !!!!!
THANK YOU !!!!!
This video helped me a lot. I just had hip replacement, and had no idea how to properly use a cane. I started out with the wrong hand, which was corrected before seeing this video, however, my cane was way too long, and my gait was definitely not ideal. With my cane's height now properly adjusted, and with more focus on my gait, it's a massive improvement. Thanks for this!
I use two walking sticks - somewhat inconvenient at times - a stick longer than you suggest by 3 or so inches to assist going = down step or stairs without a handrail and ascending or descending sloping ground or paths - stops me leaning to far forward and falling down stairs as I have done many times - and a correctly sized stick for flat surfaces - both collapsable
thank you. i bought a new cane that was way too long. with your guidance, i cut about 5 inches off (exactly to the wrist crease). it now fits and i feel a lot more stable when walking.
THANK YOU! I needed to learn how to properly use a cane, my gf got me a great oak one, we found it is a little too long. Have to trim about an 1.5 - 2" less. So this will make a HUGE difference! ! Thank you for what you are teaching people. Been using a slightly shorter, less heavy one, but the better heavier one we see I was holding it wrong. Now I'll be able to walk better -- be less tired. Rehab never showed me how to walk properly, AFTER having what would end up being a botched leg surgery.
Will, fantastic video. Straight-forward, well-explained (why doing it correctly will make a difference to posture and gait),well structured (three key points), easy to understand, nice visual demonstrations. Thank you so much! I’ll be making an adjustment to my cane imminently and look forward to the difference it will make in comfort and easier walking. 👍
As a senior, over 50, disabled using a stick for 30yrs, apart from the stick length, it depends what you are using it for! For balance reasons technique is very different for support + balance. Otherwise, good and important vid
I agree. For balance, you need it much higher.
An excellent video with an exacting message. Thank-you very much.😊
Thank you so much for the well illustrated and patient way you😊 explain AND illustrate proper useage❤🎉
Excellent advice, and explanations. Thanks.
I just started using a stick when my sciatica began a flair up. This makes a lot of sense. I was using the wrong arm, so I’ve changed. I love your channel, and will watch it consistently. Thank you so much for the help you provide. Be well and stay safe. I’m Alex from L A.💙🙏
Pretty weird... I'm dealing with the same thing going on 30 days now. So painful.
@@dave9351 the next time sciatica strikes, try using a TENS unit. It may not work for you but for me it really does alleviate some of that pain. It’s like it distracts the nerve. It doesn’t eliminate it but it dulls a lot of the worst of the pain.
Watching and learning. Instinctively, I’ve been using my cane correctly. I’m so pleased to see this instructional video as it is necessary to know the physiological correct way to use a helping device. Thank you.
Will Harlow, you have saved me an amazing amount of pain!!!! I have just started using a walking stick awaiting a hip replacement, and nobody told me how to use it properly….until I found you Will Harlow, watched your RUclips about using a walking stick properly and I am now using the correct hand, at the correct length, and, correct distance away from me…..THANK YOU, THANK YOU, Thank you William
Wonderful information! Thank you!
Just the info I needed!!! Thank you for addressing this matter.
You're welcome!
I think there is a difference between a walking stick and a hiking stick as the hiking stick serves different purposes (such as preventing the hiker from going off the side of a mountain.). I have been hiking for more than 50 years (currently 73) and my hiking sticks are longer than typically recommended by three or four inches as the added height provides more leverage on uneven, declining or inclining terrain, debris filled trails (rocks, branches, roots etc.) and slippery trails such as mud, wet soil and tiny round rocks that act like ball bearings. In general, however, regardless of the height of the stick, I cannot count the number of times my hiking stick has saved me from a slip or fall while out on the trails. I won't hike without one. (BTW last Sept, for my 72nd birthday, I hiked the Grand Canyon, Rim to Rim, solo, south to north route- 15.5 hrs.
Yeaaaaa!
Yes, there are differences. Hiking poles provide propulsion as well as some support and should be longer.
The key difference is the folded elbow, so hand at near shoulder height (especially if you have done Nordic Skiing). The pole tip is not quite as far forward as was shown here which is primarily for support.
The pole will have a diagonal angle, almost like its a bannister to pull upon. If you have a longer pole, the tip does not overtake your foot/boot, otherwise it is just a brake at that point of contact.
A longer pole also helps reach downhill more easily and proves a third leg of balance. I end up using a 135cm length (though 40 years of British Nordic skiing is probably a factor!)
It'll be interesting to hear Will's views
I use the cane even in my home, but when I go down my steep driveway I have a set of hiking poles I use so that I don’t go tumbling down.
Don’t be like the unfortunate lady in the English Lake District. She tripped over her stick and fell to her death.
I use a trekking pole for balance only. I have no injuries to overcome
Very educational and helpful. Thank You
Thankyou so much, I have been using my stick wrong it took awhile getting used to the change but it’s much better now
Very good teacher. Thank you!!
Great video, awesome advice, clearly explained! Your videos have given me so much motivation and great help! Thank you for the valuable information Will and keep up the good work!❤👍
Thank you very much!
Now that I have learnt the vital lessons on the proper use of the walking stick, I will spread the word to others who will definitely benefit from your expertise! Ecstatic and highly grateful!
Just adjusted my walking stick to the length you advised I had it on its highest setting before the difference is amazing! Thank you
Another very clearly explained video! I appreciate that you detail the reasons for as well as the dynamics of the movements. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you so much.
As always, you’re videos are crystal clear and helpful. Thank you.
You're very welcome!
Thank you for your work on this video I’ve adjusted my stick and hopefully this will help my worsening posture , please keep up the good work.
Wow! What a difference this makes following your guidelines on walking cane height. All this time I had it too high. Thank you.
It's amazing what channels one finds when just scooting around RUclips, I used to use a walking stick but now use crutches or really bad times use my scooter. Away from the walking stick issue this is a very informative channel and definitely one I'll be looking at more uploads.
Great information. Keep up the great work.
Thank you! This is a very valuable bit of information for me as I'm going in for knee surgery soon and will be using a stick for days after. I appreciate your videos and you.
You are very welcome!
It's one of the best videos I've seen on this subject. The instructions were clear and concise. Thank you!
So pleased you found it helpful that's great to hear!
Great video my friend, thank you for sharing it. 😊
Very helpful video. Thank you. And when such a good looking Specialist is explaining it, then it becomes more Interesting and Motivating.
Thanks for your advice. Adjusted my stick!
Thank you so much! Exactly the advice we needed!
You are welcome!
I use mine for balance. I don't need to correct my balance all the time but occasionally. I use it in my right hand because it is more comfortable there. If I need it for leg support I will definitely change my style accordingly. Thanks for the instruction.
My pleasure!
I am not using a cane yet. Waiting for my walker to be delivered. The doctor ordered one that I can sit on if needed. I love listening to you.
I also use my cane for balance and as a result my right leg is weaker
, I walk my dog on the left . I have adjusted the cane height and will try to walk better this morning
Great tips. Thanks so much!
Thank you for your information. Adjustable good move. And putting in the right hand thanks for this information
Thank you for taking time out t[ explain .
Thank you very much. Very helpful.
Thanks for your help!
Loved this video great advice thank you!
Your presentation is highly interesting to watch. Thank you very much and take care 🙂
It was very helpful. Thank you
your videos have been very helpful. thank you for sharing.
I've always wondered why they recommend using the opposite side. It just didn't seem to make sense to me. Now it does! Your explanation and examples have completely cleared that up. Thank you!
This helped a lot! Thank you.
I’m so glad I found your channel. Thank you!
Hi Will, it's Fabiano, I'm 64, thank you so much for your precious videos. I've start watching you, but above all practising, in a couple of weeks the pain on my left knee Is gradually disappearing. It's also improved the awareness about how my body compensate the pain and now I'm positively surprised about having this new power and flexibility in all my left leg. Love you!
This was informative.
Thank you ! For sharing !
Been using my stick in the wrong arm also had it too high, pleased I found this video, many thanks for the advice
very helpful thank you
WOW😮 This is great insights. I have been walking with a stick walking Aid the wrong way. I really appreciate it. This was very useful. Thanks 🙏🙏
Great information, thank you.
Thank you so much. I have badly sprained the tendon on my outer right knee and have to use a walking stick. I have spent more time on the floor with the walking stick on top of me then standing up. Firstly, I now realise that it was too high, and I was putting it forward at the same time as my bad leg! I have now been practicing indoors and feel more confident to go outside. Thank you very much indeed. I am most grateful.
I will do. Tanks for the update.
I really appreciate this information thank You
That's very good advice Will, thank you.
Incredibly helpful thank You! 👍🏆😉
Blimey thanks for this !! Cheers 😊
Thank you so much for teaching and guiding us on proper use of walking stick.
CONGRATULATIONS..
Many Thanks..I will use your Recommendations
I hope they can be of help!
I am working with a PT, and they adjusted my cane quite high compared to yours. I will give your style a try. As it is, I feel very wobbly. I like this video. Thank you.
Added note: Try turning the stick 180 digrees, so that the short tip is pointed backwards. This allows the wrist weight to ride centered over the shaft rather than in front of the it. This will minimize the twisting of the wrist when heavy weight is applied. It works better for me. Also, there many reasons to carry a walking stick. Don't assume everybody is "doing it wrong". I shift from left to right based on which knee or ankle is giving me the most problem at the particular time. Yet it appears that I'm supporting the wrong leg. I also have a longer stick for traveling, or walking in unimproved areas, due to uneven surfaces. Just saying. But thanks for letting folks know. The positioning and height requrements need also be stressed for crutches. I've seen people get "high centered" or stay hunched over when using crutches.
My best friend is an amputee above knee, she was having major problems a few yrs ago and her physio continuously tried to make her use her walking stick on the same side that was amputated, but, she never felt safe in doing so and she said it seemed unnatural so she just continued to do it her way 🤷🏻♀️😁which is as you say the correct way. I’m happy to say she no longer needs the stick 😊😊
Fantastic video. So helpful and informative.
Always happy to help!
Excellent video. I was glad to see that I'm using my stick correctly, as a physical therapist taught me. Thanks!
Wow! Very helpful! Most of us have just never had anyone to help us. Thanks!
Thank you so much for this video. I had the height correct but was using the wrong hand. I am moving much better now thanks to your demonstration and clear instructions. 😊
Very useful information here! I’m recovering from back surgery and using a cane for stability. I now realize why my arm and neck on that side are so sore! 🙏
Thanks, good info!
This is excellent - thank you! I'd been doing it all wrong.I did figure out that the Stick was too tall, and shortened it. But I'll follow your advice for the rest! My right Knee is out of alignment from an old bicycle accident, but since it's not painful - merely a mechanical disaster - I don't want surgery.
Tq for the tips Will. So enlightening.
Very helpful and I have made the changes.
Thank you for this video . I always wondered how to hold the stick.
Great video Will. You answered all my questions about sticks. I have carried a stick for about a decade, mainly as a weapon to beat off other people's dogs... but I do use it to stabilize myself on some surfaces and always wondered how it should be used!
Thank you for information 😊
Thank you very much for that. Have subscribed x
very good and helpful thank you
A real eye opener! Great video. Thanks Wiil
Very well explained. I have been using a stick for sciatica n slipped disc. Now I m suffering from Neuropathy n have had two falls which have scared me. Now I shall work on what has been explained in your video.
Thanks for your video, I'm 75yrs and need a stick help walking with a damaged knee. Have now changed my stick height and gait style, feels alot better now, cheers to you.
So pleased my video was able to offer some helpful information :)