The most effective cloths masks are made of multiple layers of tightly woven fabric like cotton. A mask with layers will stop more droplets from getting through your mask or escaping from it.

Choosing The Right Walking Stick – What To Consider

That the walking stick is the right height for youWhich hand you are going to hold it inWhether you need the walking stick to stand up by itself How much stability you need it to provideWhether you are going to take it upstairsWhether you need a seat so you can rest

If you are looking at a second hand walking stick or inheriting a stick it is important to check the condition.  Look to see that the ferrules at the bottom of the stick and any adjustable joins aren’t worn. 

If it is a wooden walking stick, check that it is long enough and be prepared to cut it down if needed.

How To Measure For A Walking Stick

Getting the height right for a walking stick is very important.  If you have one too high it won’t be as stable and you won’t be able to put weight through it safely. Too low can negatively impact on your posture leading to increased stooping.

So Here Is How You Measure For A Walking Stick

Wearing your normal shoes, stand-in your normal standing position with your arms relaxed and hanging down by your sides with a slight bend in your elbow.

Have someone to hold a stick just close, about 15cm from your side.

Your wrist joint should be at the same height as the stick handle without changing your position.

If you don’t have a stick to measure against then ask someone to measure from your wrist joint to the floor while you are in this position with a tape measure and round to the nearest cm.

How To Use A Walking Stick

You can use a walking stick either as a single or as a pair.  How you walk with them will depend on what your particular needs are and restrictions you may have.

If you are walking with a pair of walking sticks it is particularly important that you walk with the right technique.  A physiotherapist can advise you on the right technique for you as well as how to use them going up and downstairs.

At ElWell we provide a physiotherapy service at home in Oxfordshire or you can find one through the CSP (Chartered Society of Physiotherapy) Find a Physio. Alternatively visit your GP and request a referral.