[Rodney]

At my last visit with my prostheticist I learned that I've been making my canes too short by about 3 inches. I found my way of measuring on the internet and thought I was following directions correctly.

Turns out something went wrong somewhere.

Back to the drawing board.

Good thing I like making sticks anyway.

Rodney

 

[Sean]

How were you measuring? I've always figured it to be in most cases measured from the floor with shoes on to the wrist break? I know there might be exceptions to the rule the same as there are on which side to walk with a cane.

 

[gdenby]

FWIW, after finding several sites posting about what length was appropriate, I cut down a few of the sticks I made for myself. Did not like how I felt when I used them, and supposed my peculiar back condition might be the reason. On average, I make most of my sticks at least 3" longer than what I need for basic support. That way, I have better leverage. Tho' my shoulders are not happy, I can push my spine straighter.

 

[Sean]

I know for me if i go higher than the wrist it puts strain on my elbow and if i go below your reaching and hunching. Im sure though that depending on posture and injury etc there are variables and comfort is key along with consulting a Dr.

 

[LilysDad]

Are you able to save your sticks by adding on?

 

[Rodney]

How were you measuring? I've always figured it to be in most cases measured from the floor with shoes on to the wrist break? I know there might be exceptions to the rule the same as there are on which side to walk with a cane.

That's how I did it. I had my prostheticist show me how tall it really should be. She had me hold my arm out in front of me probably 16 inches in front or at about 30* from vertical. That picked the bottom of the cane up about 3 inches in my case.

I may be different due to having an artificial leg. I can use the shorter canes but I think the taller one will work better.

Are you able to save your sticks by adding on?

My two with the bark on? No. I think it would compromise the looks too much. The one I turned? Yes, but I haven't decided the best way yet. I don't want it to look modified when I'm done.

It's probably easier to find new homes for these and just make new ones.

Rodney

 

[MJC4]

If it were me I wouldn't want to chance my support on a walking aid that has had a piece added to the length. Too much wood out there to play with. I would definitely make some new ones that fit me perfectly. Just my .02

 

[Rodney]

I don't think strength would be the issue. I would be joining the sections with a steel rod and epoxy. I'm more concerned about the look of the final product. I made them to be the size they are. Adding extra length will throw off the proportions. There's no way I can add length to the two with bark on them without the changes sticking out like a sore thumb.

I haven't posted pictures of my latest yet.

Sharing my mistakes is paying off. It just occurred to me if I take the handles off the turned one and my latest stick I can remount the handle from the turned cane (it's a really comfortable handle) to the shank of the other and end up with something that looks good, has a comfortable handle and is close to the right height. The turned shank will be destroyed in the process is the only downside.

Rodney