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Buying a walking cane may not be the most exciting thing you will ever do, but it can help you in more ways than you might realize.
Quad canes (walking canes with four – usually rubber – feet) are incredibly stable, affordable, and beneficial. If you have issues with balance or stability and want a cane that’ll keep you upright, check out our buying guide to the best quad canes on the market today!
What is a Quad Cane?
Quad walking canes are not groundbreaking technology, but they are popular for a reason. These canes are known for being, scientifically, the most stable and safest type of walking cane on the market and as such are incredibly common. In fact, most of the walking canes you’ll find today use quad bases.
Quad canes are distinguished by these three things:
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They Have a 4-Pointed Base
All quad canes have a base (the part of the cane that makes contact with the ground and is responsible for traction) that has four feet. These feet are usually made of rubber, and some seniors will put tennis balls over the feet to reduce the traction and prevent floor scuffing.
There are two types of quad walking cane bases:
- 1Standard Quad Base- These bases, such as the one on the RMS Quad Cane, have 4 rubber feet that form a square or rectangle shape. They are rigid and inflexible, providing excellent stability at all times.
- 2Pivoting Quad Base- These bases are less common, but still highly valued by people who use them. Pivoting bases are designed to flex and move in the same way that the human ankle does. These bases are just as stable, but they’re better at adapting to rough terrain and uneven ground- just like your actual ankles are.
2
They’re Self-Standing
One of the more interesting things about quad canes is that they can stand up by themselves. This isn’t something that will change the world, but it is nice to know that your cane is stable enough to support itself. If it can support itself without falling, it can to keep you upright, too!
Furthermore, because your cane can stand by itself, they are very helpful when standing or sitting. If you are health concerns make it difficult to stand or sit, canes with quad bases are perfect for you. They will stay still, supporting you as you rise/sink from your sitting/standing position, without creating a fall risk. Compare that to single-point canes, which don’t have the same stable platform and may fall from under you when sitting and standing.
Finally, quad walking canes, because they can stand up on their own, are convenient to use in public. A cane that cannot stand up by itself will usually end up lying on the floor. This forces you to bend over and try to pick it up when you are ready to go- something that could hurt your back/hips even worse!
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They Can Incorporate other Cane Features
- Folding: many walking canes will separate into three or four pieces, connected by an elastic band that runs through the center of the shaft. Folding canes are very convenient, allowing you to fold them up when you’re not using them and store them in a bag or on your lap, ready for when you stand up again. These canes won’t wind up flat on the floor, forcing you to stoop over to pick them up- because you can simply fold it and keep it handy!
- Adjusting: The height of your walking cane is crucial to your ability to use it safely. That’s why many canes are made with adjustability. This means that you can make them taller or shorter as needed so that users will always be able to get the perfect fit.
- Gadget Features: this is a broad term that describes any sort of non-essential technology included in a cane. This technology could be as simple as a flashlight or as complex as a sword or stun gun. Gadget canes aren’t for everyone, but they can be very useful to certain seniors!
Benefits of Using a Walking Cane for Seniors
Increased Stability
If you’ve suffered a stroke, have had a hip replacement, or are dealing with another medical issue that limits your ability to balance, these canes are for you. Because they have an incredibly stable platform, you can lean on them heavily for balance without them falling out from underneath you.
If you are walking and feel your balance getting away from you, all that you have to do is lean on your cane, making sure that it is directly underneath you. These gains are scientifically proven to be the most stable, and are recommended for people with balance issues.
In one study with stroke patients, cane use promoted normal walking motion, helping them move more safely and with a lowered fall risk. Strokes cause hemiparesis- the partial loss of feeling or paralysis in the limbs. Studies conducted with patients who have hemiparesis found that using a quad gained significantly more stability than patients using a one-point cane.
Improved Balance
Canes are very useful for keeping your balance. No matter what your reason for lacking balance is, a quad cane can help. They provide lots of traction, so you’ll be able to lean on them heavily for balance without falling.
Canes also reduce something called postural sway– the degree to which your center of gravity changes as you walk. Increased postural sway leads to increased falls- in simple terms, poor balance. Using a cane to reduce your postural sway is an effective way to lower your fall risk- more than 32,000 seniors die each year from falls that were likely preventable!
Decreased Pain
Using a quad cane can also help you reduce pain that comes from sciatica, knee osteoarthritis, or any other leg/back issue. The cane will take the pressure off of your joints and muscles, sharing some of the load and allowing tension, inflammation, and therefore pain, to dissipate.
For example, using a cane for just two months improved the condition and reduced pain for knee osteoarthritis patients. In some cases, using a cane can even reduce the risk of progression of the disease.
Canes are also useful for reducing pain and speeding recovery after hip replacements. One study found that the use of a quad cane reduced the load carried by the hip abductors, as well as the body’s postural sway. This will allow hip replacement patients to recover quicker and with less pain.
Risks of Using a Walking Cane for Seniors
Fatigue
For all of their benefits, quad canes are the heaviest and clunkiest type of walking cane. This means that, over the course of the day, you will feel more tired using a quad cane than you would with a single-point or tripod cane. This difference will be imperceptible if you are only walking short distances, and have plenty of breaks. However, it is worth mentioning that quad canes do require the most energy to use.
Overconfidence
This cannot technically be blamed fully on the cane, but some people who use quad canes indeed feel more confident than they should. This leads to inappropriate risk-taking and unsafe walking, which may lead to falls. If you use a cane, make sure that you are not giving yourself a false sense of confidence about your level of safety!
At a Glance: The Best Quad Walking Canes for Seniors
Image |
Name |
Length |
Width |
Height |
Weight | Best For | Header |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hugo Adjustable Quad Cane |
8″ |
6″ | 28-39″ | 2 lbs | Quality Construction | ||
RMS Quad Cane | 8″ | 6.5″ | 37″ | 1.6 lbs | Increased stability | ||
BigAlex Folding Walking Cane | – | – | 38″ | 1.3 lbs | Firmness & Best Quality | ||
BeneCane Quad Cane | 8″ | 6″ | 38″ | 0.82 kg | Lightweight & super sturdy | ||
HealthSmart Quad Cane | 8″ | 6″ | 38″ | 1.8 lbs | Increase Mobility & Comfort | ||
Ez2care Adjustable Quad Cane | 8″ | 6″ | 37″ | 1.34 lbs | Ergonomically designed | ||
AW Medical Folding Walking Stick | 12″ | 9″ | 32″ | 3 lbs | Firm & Stable |
The Best Quad Walking Canes for Seniors: 2021
1. Best Quad Cane for Seniors (Overall):Hugo Adjustable Quad Cane
Hugo Adjustable Quad Cane | |
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Length | 8″ |
Width | 6″ |
Height | 28-39″ |
Weight | 2 lbs |
Quick Stats:
- Cane Type: Quad Adjustable
- Weight Supported: 300 Pounds
- Best Feature: Inexpensive, fits nearly any senior
Whether you’re 4’10” or 6’5”, 120 pounds or 290, if you’ve got all the money in the world or are barely scraping by, this cane has got you covered. It’s incredibly affordable and versatile, good enough to be an ideal match for virtually any senior. The Hugo Adjustable cane has a wide quad base that’s stable enough to prevent falls, but it’s not so heavy that you’ll get worn out using it.
There are really no downsides to this cane- it’s an all-around winner. It lacks any sort of special features, though- what you see is what you get. No pivoting base, no LED flashlight, no “sit-to-stand” feature. If extra features are what you’re looking for, you may not like the Hugo cane. If you want something simple that over-delivers in every other way, though, this is the perfect cane for you!
2. Best Large Base Quad Cane:RMS Quad Walking Cane
RMS Quad Cane | |
---|---|
Length | 8″ |
Width | 6.5″ |
Height | 37″ |
Weight | 1.6 lbs |
Quick Stats:
- Cane Type: Quad Adjustable
- Weight Supported: 250 Pounds
- Best Feature: Extra-Wide quad base
The RMS quad cane is one of the absolute best on the market for one simple reason: it has a wide base that’s rectangular in shape. This means that while it provides excellent stability, it won’t get in your way and cause your foot to bump into it with every step. This is a common problem with quad canes that have square bases; the RMS cane solves the issue without sacrificing balance.
This cane is perfect for any senior who is worried about their ability to walk safely without risking a fall. If you need something that will plant firmly into the ground and keep you upright despite balance issues, this wide-base quad cane should be at the top of your list.
3. Best Narrow Base Quad Cane: Big Alex Folding Quad Cane
BigAlex Folding Walking Cane | |
---|---|
Length | – |
Width | – |
Height | 38″ |
Weight | 1.3 lbs |
Quick Stats:
- Cane Type: Quad Adjustable
- Weight Supported: 300 Pounds
- Best Feature: Narrow pivoting base
The Big Alex Cane is incredibly light, easy to use, and stable thanks to its narrow quad base. The four points on the base don’t take up very much room; this helps you walk normally without worrying about bumping your foot into the base all the time. The quad base is also a “pivoting” cane base, meaning it pivots 360 degrees and adapts to changes in the terrain.
This narrow base, because it can adapt to the surroundings, makes the Big Alex cane feel like you have a dependable, mechanical third leg on your side. The base moves and adjusts just like the human ankle does, giving you exceptional traction and stability no matter where you go!
Even if it lacked this function, this would still be a great cane. It’s light, convenient, and cheap. It even comes in two different height sizes (both adjustable), so that no senior is left out!
4. Best Bariatric Quad Cane:BeneCane Folding Quad Cane
BeneCane Quad Cane | |
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Length | 8″ |
Width | 6″ |
Height | 38″ |
Weight | 0.82 kg |
Quick Stats:
- Cane Type: Quad Adjustable, Folding
- Weight Supported: 380 Pounds
- Best Feature: High weight capacity, lightweight product design
Even though it only weighs 1.3 pounds, this walking cane can support a user who weighs up to 380 pounds! That means it can support more than 100X its own weight without struggling- you won’t get tired using it, nor will you have to worry about whether it can hold you up.
If you’re a heavier person, the thought of using a walking cane can be intimidating- can such a thin piece of aluminum truly be depended upon? The BeneCane’s aluminum walls are 1.5X thicker than those of similar walking canes. This doesn’t add much in terms of weight, but it makes it much stronger than its competitors.
If you’re a heavier person, buying this quad cane will give you the support- and peace of mind that you need.
5. Best Sit to Stand Quad Cane: HealthSmart Sit-To-Stand Quad Cane
HealthSmart Quad Cane | |
---|---|
Length | 8″ |
Width | 6″ |
Height | 38″ |
Weight | 1.8 lbs |
Quick Stats:
- Cane Type: Quad Adjustable
- Best Feature: Two handles provide exceptional protection when sitting/standing
If you’re someone who experiences pain, difficulty, or a lack of balance while sitting or standing, this is the cane for you. Below the main handle, there is a second handle designed to let you pull yourself up or lower yourself down much more safely while standing up or sitting down.
When you aren’t transitioning back and forth from seated/standing positions, this cane still has a lot to offer. It’s got impeccable balance and it’s very easy to use. The biggest benefit, though, is still the ability to safely transition from the couch to your feet and back again. If you want to experience less pain or risk of falling during this transition, the HealthSmart Sit-to-Stand cane is what you need.
6. Best Adjustable Quad Cane: Ez2Care Adjustable Quad Cane
Ez2care Adjustable Quad Cane | |
---|---|
Length | 8″ |
Width | 6″ |
Height | 37″ |
Weight | 3 lbs |
Quick Stats:
- Cane Type: Quad Adjustable
- Weight Supported: 250 Pounds
- Best Feature: Simple and durable construction
There are many features that you may want to consider when shopping for a cane, but some seniors feel that “simplicity” is the most important feature of all. If you are one of those people, this sturdy adjustable cane is for you. It does its job extremely well, and doesn’t have any bells or whistles that would drive up the price or decrease its reliability.
This cane will fit seniors as short as 4’10” and as tall as 6’4”. It’s strong and simple, and it’ll last for many years in the right hands. If you want a cheap cane that will always be there for you (and will adjust to your height), look no further than the Ez2Care Adjustable Quad Cane!
7. Best Quad Cane with Seat: AW Medical Folding Seat Cane
AW Medical Folding Walking Stick | |
---|---|
Length | 12″ |
Width | 9″ |
Height | 32″ |
Weight | 1.34 lbs |
Quick Stats:
- Cane Type: Quad Seat Cane
- Weight Supported: 242 Pounds
- Best Feature: Folds out into a supportive stool at a moment’s notice
Seat canes might seem rather silly at first glance, but they are more useful than you’d think. People who suffer from COPD, vertigo, or sciatica often need to stop and rest for a few minutes as they walk. With a traditional walking cane, they are left depending upon the availability of a chair or bench when they need rest.
A quad cane that folds out into a stool in a matter of seconds, though, means that seniors never have to worry about whether or not they can stop to take a break. This cane, while it is a bit short (not ideal for tall users), is a great choice for any senior who needs the safety and convenience provided by a seat cane. If you have a condition that makes frequent breaks necessary, there is no better quad cane for you!
FAQs: Quad Canes
How Many Tips Does a Quad Cane Base Have?
Quad cane bases have four tips. This may seem like a trivial thing to mention, certain manufacturers will list their products as quad canes when they aren’t. you certainly won’t find those manufacturers on our list, but you should watch out for improper descriptions on products When shopping for canes!
Where to Buy a Quad Cane Near Me
Far and away, the easiest and best way to get a quad cane is to buy one online. There are thousands of different canes available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses- shopping online is the only way to have access to them all. That said, here are all the best places to get a quad walking cane, both in-store and online:
Online
- Fashionable Canes: Just like the name of the company implies, this is the place to be if you want to get a cane that has a bit more style than the standard Orthopedic walking canes you can find online. You will pay more for a cane here, and you’ll have to wait a bit longer to get it, but it’s a great place to get a designer or custom-made walking cane that you will love.
- Wal-Mart Online: In recent years, Wal-Mart has been stepping up its efforts to create an online shopping experience that will truly compete with other online store in terms of price and convenience. Today, they offer hundreds of canes at great prices, with two-day shipping in most parts of the US.
In a Physical Store
If you are already heading there to pick up your prescription or get groceries, check your pharmacy or grocery store’s orthopedic section to see their selection of canes. While you won’t have access to hundreds, or even dozens, of walking canes, you may get lucky and find a cheap, simple quad cane that fits your needs.
These stores almost always sell at least a few different walking canes, and the prices are generally comparable to online shopping. You won’t have the same level of selection, but the convenience of picking up a cane on your normal shopping trips is undeniable!
How to Use a Quad Cane
Properly using your cane makes all the difference between getting the full benefit of the cane or accidentally aggravating your injuries with it. Here is how to use a quad cane in the safest way:
- Measure it. The handle of your cane should match up with your wrist when your arm is flat at your side. If your cane is longer or shorter than this, adjust it until it is the right height.
- Hold it correctly. Contrary to popular belief, you should hold your cane in the hand that is opposite your bad leg/hip/side. Holding your cane on the same side leads to a hobbling/limping motion, rather than proper walking mechanics. Furthermore, when you are holding your cane oh, your elbow should be bent at a 15-degree angle- that’s another way you know it’s the right height.
- Move it parallel to your foot. As you walk, you should be moving the cane parallel to the foot on your bad side. If your left side is the one with the problem, place the cane in your right hand. Then, when you step with your left foot, place the base of your cane parallel to it. This will allow you to walk with your arms swinging naturally, and keep you from losing your balance. Be careful not to place the cane too far in front or behind your foot as you walk- doing so will throw off your balance.
- Watch your speed. Though it may be frustrating, using a cane to walk means you will be slower than you would be without one. Take your time, especially when you first start to use your cane, and don’t go too fast. Moving too quickly reduces your stability and can lead to a fall. Over time, you will improve your speed- so don’t rush it!
- Be careful on stairs. Take the stairs one at a time, using your cane and bad foot as your “plant foot”- planting it into the stair and using your good side to push up/lower down the stairs. Don’t try to use the stairs with both legs as you used to; you’ll be risking injury and hardly saving any time!
If you want to learn more about using a cane safely, check out our complete guide on how to use a cane here!
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Quad Cane for Your Needs
Quad Cane Price
The price of a quad cane is relatively similar to that of other canes; they are sometimes a few dollars more expensive than other cane types, but on the whole, the prices are roughly the same.
The cheapest canes will cost between $15-25. Mid-tier canes cost $25-50; they may have more features or be stronger than cheap canes. Any cane that costs more than $50 should be considered expensive- this could be due to their inclusion of gadget features like seats or flashlights, or because of designer/custom-made features.
How to Measure for a Quad Cane
There are two measurements that you should take when deciding which cane height is right for you. The first is the distance between your hand and the floor when your elbow is bent at a 15-degree angle (the proper position for holding a walking cane)
The second is the distance between your wrist and the floor when your arm is flat at your side. This measurement confirms the accuracy of the first- if they’re within two inches of each other, you’re good to go!
Conclusion: Quad Canes for Seniors
Finding the right quad cane can make a huge difference in your level of independence and quality of life. They’re especially useful to anyone who struggles with balance and stability. What has your experience with these canes been like? Do you have any questions about the models or features we looked at? Leave your comments below, and thanks for reading!
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