How to Measure for a Walking Stick - Complete Care Shop (2024)

Why does walking stick length matter?

Walking sticks are incredibly useful mobility aids when used correctly. However, a common mistake is neglecting to choose a walking stick that is the correct height, or setting your walking stick’s adjustable height incorrectly.

If you don‘t have the correct height, not only can it feel uncomfortable to use, but it may exacerbate existing injuries. A walking stick that is too long will force your shoulder up too high, and you may develop pain in the joint. If the walking stick is too short, this will make you hunch over, causing back pain.

If you already own one of these walking aids and are experiencing pain or discomfort in your back or shoulder while using it, it might not be the right length for you. Even if you measured yourself for the walking stick previously, changes in your health and posture over time may mean that this length is no longer suitable for you

What is the correct height for a walking stick?

There isn’t a simple answer to the question “What is the correct height for a walking stick?”. Just like shoes, there is no one-size-fits-all option for walking sticks. As a mobility aid, it’s important to make sure walking sticks are the right size for your body to ensure comfort and stability.

The general rule of thumb is that the top of the handle should be in line with the bottom of your wrist bone. However, if you have exceptional mobility requirements, you should get a medical professional to take the measurements for you.

How to measure for a walking stick

Measuring for a walking stick is quick and easy but you should take extra care to ensure the best results. It’s something you can do on your own, but it’s much easier if you have someone to help you.

1. Get in position

Start by wearing shoes that you normally wear for walking to make sure the measurements are accurate for everyday use. Stand on level ground in a natural, upright position with your weight distributed evenly and your arms hanging down by your sides.

2. Find the wrist bone

To find the correct height for a walking stick, you need to measure from the ground to the bottom of your wrist bone. This is the small, round bump on the outside of your wrist.

3. Position the walking stick

Ask the person helping you to position the walking stick next to you, standing straight up and parallel to your body. For a height-adjustable walking stick, place the ferrule on the ground with the handle pointing upwards. For a wooden walking stick, place the handle on the ground with the ferrule pointing upwards.

If you are buying a walking stick online and can’t use the actual stick for reference, you can use a tape measure to find the distance from the bottom of the wrist bone to the ground. It’s a good idea to take the measurement more than once to make sure it’s accurate before you buy or adjust your walking stick.

4. Adjust the walking stick

When the correct height for a walking stick is achieved, the top of the handle should be level with the bump at the bottom of the wrist bone. An adjustable-height walking stick can be altered in position as described above. For a wooden walking stick, mark a line on the shaft just below the wrist bone to show where to cut it to achieve the correct length. You can read more details about adjusting the height below.

5. Check the height

Hold the walking stick as you would when using it. There should be a slight bend in your arm at the elbow, and your shoulders should be level. Try walking up and down a few paces to make sure your body feels comfortable and relaxed.

How to adjust walking stick height

Adjustable walking sticks

Adjustable walking sticks have a built-in mechanism with a series of holes to increase or decrease the length as required. There will be a small button on the side of the stick that you can push in, allowing you to slide the inner shaft to the correct length.

Once at the right height, release the button into the corresponding hole. Make sure the button has fully released and that the two sections of the walking stick are locked in place before putting any weight on it. If you’re not able to achieve the perfect height with an adjustable walking stick, you might need to opt for a wooden stick instead.

Wooden walking sticks

Wooden walking sticks that are too short will need to be replaced, whilst ones that are too long can be cut to size. Make sure to measure carefully, as you won’t be able to make a stick longer if you cut off too much.

Use the line you drew on the shaft in step 4 as a cutting guide. If you’re using a measurement taken from the wrist bone to the floor, lie the walking stick flat and measure along the stick from the top of the handle. Draw a line at the correct length. You can then use a small saw to cut the stick to size, remove the rubber ferrule from the discarded piece and fit it back on the bottom of the stick.

Walking sticks at Complete Care Shop

Now that you know how to measure for a walking stick, you can enjoy using your walking aid with optimal comfort. You’ll find a wide variety of walking sticks and accessories at Complete Care Shop, including tripod walking sticks, folding walking sticks, and more.

If you’re not sure what you need, contact our Expert Advice Service. Our team of Occupational Therapists will be happy to advise you on our complete range of walking sticks, as well as any other mobility aids you might be interested in.

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