How do you properly fit a cane?

• A. Measure from the floor to the greater trochanter
• B. Measure from the floor to the knee
• C. Measure from the floor to the hip
• D. Measure from the floor to the ankle

Answer: (A)

Fitting a cane correctly centers the device at a height that keeps your posture upright and your weight-bearing mechanics efficient. The proper height is found by measuring from the floor up to the greater trochanter. This point is near the hip, so using that measurement sets the cane so you don’t have to hunch or reach awkwardly, and it allows a comfortable, slight bend in the elbow when you hold the cane and walk.

Using a measurement to the knee, hip, or ankle would place the cane too short or too tall for the body’s natural alignment, leading to compensations like leaning, stooping, or overreaching, which increases strain and can affect balance.