Folding Walking Sticks – Practical Use And Convenient Storage
Folding walking sticks come in wide varieties for men and women. They are practical,
convenient and lightweight, and fold easily when not in use. Ideal for traveling, they can be stored a backpack,
briefcase, or purse. There are even folding walking sticks known as seat canes available, for ready-made comfort
and stability while waiting in lines or attending an event outdoors.
Of course, walking sticks have been used for centuries, from when the very first humans picked up a branch for
walking assistance on rough terrain. Later, these evolved into herding rods, large staffs, and for use as weapons.
Canes became symbols of power and prestige, from the Romans and Greeks to the Egyptian pharaohs, to biblical
times.
By the 17th century, even more elaborate canes were developed. King Louis XIV of France used jewel-embedded
canes and limited their use to the aristocracy. By the 19th century, canes and walking sticks were mass-produced
and the style came to reflect the owner’s function, rank, or occupation.
At the time of their greatest popularity, from about 1550 to 1930, canes were not just used for support or as a
tool. They actually became a part of people’s wardrobe. People “wore” their cane and it was an integral part of a
person’s formal attire. An incredible variety of canes developed, made from many different materials and with all
kinds of different types of handles. There were canes with clocks and umbrella canes and canes used to hide weapons
or contraband, to name just a few.
Most folding walking sticks are made from strong, lightweight aluminum and have a
non-slip rubber tip for solid support. They also usually come with a pouch or compact case for easy transport. They
are suitable for the weight of all individuals.
For those with a medical need for a folding walking stick, it should be used on the opposite side of the
weakness or injury, even if this is not the dominant hand. All of the person’s weight should begin on the uninjured
leg, and then one may step forward with the injured leg and the cane at the same time, with a normal step.
Thus, both the cane and the uninjured leg support the entire weight, and the injured leg can complete its step.
For the correct height of a folding walking stick, the elbow should be just slightly bent while the user is
maintaining an upright posture.
Folding walking sticks can be ideal for the modern woman. Many are designed specifically for women, based not
just on size, but design and color, as well. Women’s canes tend to have a smaller handle and shaft size to
accommodate a woman’s smaller hand.
They can act as a sort of third limb for increased support and also provide a means of self-defense should the
need arise. And when not in use, they can be safely and easily stored in a purse or bag. Canes are not used solely
for medical reasons, either. They can be a perfect accent to a stylish outfit.
A folding walking stick is a convenient, practical piece of equipment that can provide
added stability and a distinguished look.
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