How much weight can I put on the walking stick?

- What you need to know about safe and secure use -

One of the questions we often receive from people who have just started using a walking stick or are considering using one is, "How much weight can I put on a walking stick?"

While it has the image of providing firm support for the body, some people feel anxious, wondering, "Will it break?" or "Is it safe to lean on it?"

However, in reality, a walking stick is not a tool that you can use to support your entire weight .

◆ The basic rule when using a walking stick is to "not put too much weight on it."

The basic premise is that a walking stick is merely an aid to assist walking . It is not designed to support your entire body weight, but rather to help you maintain balance and reduce the strain on your legs.

Its original role is to provide "partial support," such as reducing unsteadiness when walking and distributing some of the weight on the legs and hips to the hands.

◆ How safe is it? Based on the SG mark test standards...

Among the many walking sticks available on the market, those with the SG mark (Product Safety Association certification mark) meet strict safety standards.

The SG standard involves strength testing based on actual use, and the design is such that "it is acceptable within the scope of normal use as a walking aid."

However, since the cane is not designed to be used by leaning heavily on it, care should be taken not to put too much weight on it.

◆ Don't apply too much! It puts your body at risk

If you rely too much on a cane and try to support most of your weight with your hands, it puts a lot of strain on your wrists, elbows, shoulders, etc.

• Wrist pain
• Stiff shoulders and tired arms
• Risk of tipping over due to cane tilt

This strain can lead to injury, especially in older people or those with weak muscles.

◆ Correct usage: "Help" rather than "support"

The ideal way to use a walking stick is to imagine it as a light part of your body.

By balancing your body by resting part of your weight on the support, you can stabilize your walking and reduce the strain on your entire body.

◆ If you are unsure, consider using a walking frame or Lofstrand clutch.

If you want to support your weight securely or feel uneasy using one hand, it may be safer to consider a walker or a clutch type that requires support with both hands (Lofstrand clutch) rather than a cane.

It is important to consult with a specialist staff member to choose a walking aid that suits your physical condition.

If you find yourself gripping the cane too tightly or leaning on it too heavily, it may be a sign that you need to reconsider the type of cane you use and how you use it.

To ensure you can walk safely, please visit your nearest KINDCARE store and work with a staff member to choose a walking stick that suits your body.