How to Choose the Right Cane-and Use It Properly

Anyone with back or lower extremity pain, joint instability, or balance deficits may be at a higher risk of falls and can benefit from using a cane, says Nicole ODonnell, PT, MPT, a physical therapist at Cleveland Clinic. This can include patients with arthritic ankles, knees, hips, or back, but the use of a cane is certainly not limited to just arthritic conditions. A cane is especially helpful if you suffer from debilitating pain on one side of the body.