Patient/caregiver was educated on safety precautions to be observed while using an offset cane as follows:
- Firm grip on the offset cane handle is important to prevent the device slipping out of control and contributing to a fall. Using a offset cane with ribbed handles can help enhance the grip. Individuals with inflammation in the small joints of the hands have limited range of motion in the fingers contributing to poor grip. Offset cane with large handles, padded or foam handles can offer better grip for such individuals. Handles too big for your grip also can contribute to poor grip and enhance fall risk. Make sure the offset cane handles are of appropriate size for you. This is also one reason for you not to share your offset cane, as the size of grips can vary between individuals.
- Make sure the leg of the offset cane is touching the ground evenly. Uneven offset cane leg can impair the balance of the offset cane and make it wobbly, which can enhance your fall risk. The leg of the offset cane must be sturdy enough to support your weight.
- Make sure that the rubber tips at the end of offset cane leg are not worn out. These caps are slip resistant, offer improved grip on surfaces, and prevent the offset cane from slipping away, especially while on smoother surfaces. Worn out rubber tips disturb the even placement of the offset cane leg on the ground, impair balance, and offer poor grip on the surfaces, which can increase fall risk for users. Replace the rubber tip at the end of offset cane leg periodically, as recommended.
