When using a cane with unilateral leg weakness, which side should you hold the cane on and what is the usual sequence of advancing the limbs?

When using a cane with unilateral leg weakness, which side should you hold the cane on and what is the usual sequence of advancing the limbs?

• A. Hold the cane on the affected side; advance the affected leg first, then the cane
• B. Hold the cane on the unaffected (opposite) side; advance the cane first, then the affected leg, then the unaffected leg
• C. Hold cane in both hands; shuffle
• D. Cane position does not matter

Answer: (B)

Holding the cane on the side opposite the weakness provides a stable base for gait and proper weight transfer. By placing the cane in the opposite hand, you create a counterbalance that helps support weight as you move a weaker leg forward. The correct sequence—advance the cane first, then the affected leg to meet the cane, and finally step the unaffected leg forward—maximizes stability: the cane bears weight and guides the weaker limb through the step, while the strong leg follows to complete the stride. Placing the cane on the weak side would load the compromised limb and increase the risk of instability, and using the cane in both hands or claiming cane position doesn’t matter wouldn’t offer the needed unilateral support for this situation.

Holding the cane on the side opposite the weakness provides a stable base for gait and proper weight transfer. By placing the cane in the opposite hand, you create a counterbalance that helps support weight as you move a weaker leg forward. The correct sequence—advance the cane first, then the affected leg to meet the cane, and finally step the unaffected leg forward—maximizes stability: the cane bears weight and guides the weaker limb through the step, while the strong leg follows to complete the stride. Placing the cane on the weak side would load the compromised limb and increase the risk of instability, and using the cane in both hands or claiming cane position doesn’t matter wouldn’t offer the needed unilateral support for this situation.