What is the difference between a walking stick and a cane?
Thinking about the meaning of "support" beyond just appearance
Walking sticks and canes are used to support walking and for rehabilitation in the elderly, and are also used as fashion items.
These two words tend to be used almost interchangeably in everyday life, but there is actually a subtle difference in nuance behind them.
This time, we will explore the differences between a walking stick and a cane from a healthcare perspective, looking at their functions, purposes, and images.
■ A cane is the basic form of a tool to support the body
The Japanese word "cane" is an assistive device used primarily by people who need physical support. In medical and nursing care settings, it is positioned as an important tool for assisting people with walking, and is used for the following purposes:
・Walking assistance for elderly people whose legs and hips have weakened
・Temporary walking support during rehabilitation
- Maintaining balance to prevent falls
The Japanese word "cane" is an assistive device used primarily by people who need physical support. In medical and nursing care settings, it is positioned as an important tool for assisting people with walking, and is used for the following purposes:
・Walking assistance for elderly people whose legs and hips have weakened
・Temporary walking support during rehabilitation
- Maintaining balance to prevent falls
Canes come in a variety of shapes, including a single cane, a multi-pronged cane (with three or four prongs at the end), a Lofstrand crutch, and more, and are chosen based on the purpose. Another feature of canes is that they are often selected under the guidance of a doctor or physical therapist.
■ A "walking stick" is a "fashionable walking stick"
On the other hand, the word "stick" has a Western and decorative connotation. It originally came from British gentleman culture and was used as a "style element" rather than simply as a walking aid.
・High-quality wood and metal grip, highly decorative design ・Holding it when wearing formal attire creates a sense of dignity ・Can be used by people of all physical abilities as a light support
Even when used by elderly people, they are often chosen by people who place more importance on "pride in owning" and "being themselves" than on a cane, and they can also be expected to have a psychological effect of making people feel more positive.
On the other hand, the word "stick" has a Western and decorative connotation. It originally came from British gentleman culture and was used as a "style element" rather than simply as a walking aid.
・High-quality wood and metal grip, highly decorative design ・Holding it when wearing formal attire creates a sense of dignity ・Can be used by people of all physical abilities as a light support
Even when used by elderly people, they are often chosen by people who place more importance on "pride in owning" and "being themselves" than on a cane, and they can also be expected to have a psychological effect of making people feel more positive.
■ Choose the perfect watch for you based on a balance of functionality and psychology
For example, it may be easier to understand if you think of it as "a cane is prescribed at the hospital" and "a walking stick is purchased at a department store."
Cases where a cane is recommended : Those who need walking assistance based on a doctor's diagnosis; Those who want to walk for long periods of time or move safely over areas with many steps; Those who have a history of falls and are concerned about their balance function
For example, it may be easier to understand if you think of it as "a cane is prescribed at the hospital" and "a walking stick is purchased at a department store."
Cases where a cane is recommended : Those who need walking assistance based on a doctor's diagnosis; Those who want to walk for long periods of time or move safely over areas with many steps; Those who have a history of falls and are concerned about their balance function
Cases where a walking stick is recommended : ・People who want light support while also enjoying fashion ・People who want to pay attention to their appearance when going out ・People considering buying a walking stick as a gift
■ Summary Knowing the differences is a step towards "moving forward positively"
Although both walking sticks and canes share the role of providing support, there are subtle differences in their meanings and functions. If you think of a cane as meeting medical needs and a walking stick as enriching your life, the difference in their uses becomes clear.Elderly people may feel that using tools makes them feel old, but walking sticks and canes are "partners that support independence."
To walk in style, confidently, and in style, it's important to choose the right pair of shoes for you.