How Do I Use a Cane on Ice?

Oct 10, 2019

Anonymous asks, quote:

Do you have any advice for using a cane on ice?

end quote.

Get the Right Tips

The first thing I would do is grab yourself a pair of Tornado Tips. They’re heavier than a standard tip, but they’ll definitely keep you well grounded on the slipper terrain.

Don’t Over Extend

When walking over ice, you want to keep the force you apply to your cane or crutch as perpendicular to the ground as possible. This will reduce the risk it slipping on ice and kicking out in front of you. This means not extending your reach too far out before leaning on the crutch to take step. It’s better to take small, even steps that don’t cause you to push on your cane while it’s at an angle.

Step With the Cane and Don’t Punch the Ground

I cover both of these techniquees in my guide on forearm crutches.