1152 UNIT X / Promoting Physiologic Health CLIENT …

CLIENT TEACHING Using Canes

Hold the cane with the hand on the stronger side of the body to provide maximum support and appropriate body alignment when walking.

Position the tip of a standard cane (and the nearest tip of other canes) about 15 cm (6 in.) to the side and 15 cm (6 in.) in front of the near foot, so that the elbow is slightly flexed.

WHEN MAXIMUM SUPPORT IS REQUIRED Move the cane forward about 30 cm (1 ft), or a distance that is

comfortable while the body weight is borne by both legs (Figure 44-58 , A). Then move the affected (weak) leg forward to the cane while the weight is borne by the cane and stronger leg (Figure 44-58 , B).

Next, move the unaffected (stronger) leg forward ahead of the cane and weak leg while the weight is borne by the cane and weak leg (Figure 44-58, C).

Repeat the steps. This pattern of moving provides at least two points of support on the floor at all times.

AS YOU BECOME STRONGER AND REQUIRE LESS SUPPORT

Move the cane and weak leg forward at the same time, while the weight is borne by the stronger leg (Figure 44-59 , A).

Move the stronger leg forward, while the weight is borne by the cane and the weak leg (Figure 44-59 , B).

B

A

C

Figure 44-58 Steps involved in using a cane to provide maximum support.

A

B

Figure 44-59 Steps involved in using a cane when less than maximum support is required.

 ................
................

In order to avoid copyright disputes, this page is only a partial summary.

Google Online Preview   Download