Canes and walking sticks
walking aids 587
Straight poles
can help a child
with balance
problems.
CAUTION: Use
poles that are
taller than child
so if she falls,
they will not
poke her eyes.
Canes. Simple
canes provide
some balance
and support,
but the child
has to use the
walking muscles
in both legs.
For the child who needs to strengthen a
weak or painful leg, a cane makes
him use his leg. A crutch lets him
avoid using his leg, so the muscles
that bend his leg get stronger, rather
than the ones that straighten it. (See
p. 526.)
CANES CUT FROM FOREST PLANTS
ADJUSTABLE METAL TUBE CANE
inside
view
adjustable
cane
height
nut and
bolt
3 OR 4 FOOTED CANE—FOR
GREATER STABILITY
STANDARD
METAL TUBE
ALTERNATIVE
HAND GRIP
Split
top of
pole.
wire to
help keep
legs from
splitting
Bind base to
keep from
splitting
more.
Rubber tip made from car tire
for metal tube or bamboo crutch
or cane
STANDARD
CRUTCH AND
CANE TIP
With a sharp
knife or
grinder, cut
a plug of
car tire in
this shape.
Force it into
the tube and
fasten it
with a screw.
metal
ring
For walking in
sandy places
make crutch
and cane tips
extra wide.
disabled village children