“Move the cane at the same time as the affected leg.”
“Move the cane at the same time as the unaffected leg.”
“Hold the cane 8 to 10 inches from the side of the foot.”
Numbers 2 and 3 are correct.
Rationale: Holding the cane on the unaffected side allows the cane to work with the weaker leg. The cane should move in tandem with the affected leg. Holding the cane on the affected side is incorrect technique. Moving the cane at the same time as the unaffected leg will not offer stability. The cane should be held 4 to 6 inches from the side of the foot; holding the cane too far away will not provide stability and may cause the client to fall.
