What Is The Proper Height For a Cane?

Getting your cane height right matters more than you think. The wrong length can throw off your balance, strain your muscles, and increase your risk of falling.

Most canes are height-adjustable, which makes sizing simple. If you’re buying a fixed-length cane, a quick estimate is to divide your height in inches by two, then add half an inch. Someone who’s 76 inches tall would need a 38.5-inch cane.

But here’s something most people don’t know: research shows that about 80% of cane users have improperly fitted canes. Most are too short. This isn’t just uncomfortable. It affects your stability and can lead to falls.

Let’s look at how to get your cane height exactly right.

Why the Wrong Height Causes Problems

A cane that doesn’t match your body creates real issues:

If your cane is too long:

• You’ll reach too far forward with each step, which can make the tip slip
• Your shoulder takes on extra strain from the awkward angle
• Studies show longer-than-recommended canes increase body sway and reduce how much weight you can safely transfer to the cane

If your cane is too short:

• You’ll hunch over or lean to one side
• Your balance suffers, raising fall risk
• Research found that short canes significantly increase shoulder and arm muscle strain, especially on stairs
• Back pain and potential lasting injury from poor posture

The science is clear: even being off by an inch or two affects your walking mechanics and energy expenditure.

How to Measure for the Right Cane Height

The most reliable method measures from your wrist to the ground. You’ll need someone to help:

1. Stand up straight in the shoes you normally wear
2. Let your arms hang naturally at your sides
3. Have someone measure from the crease on the inside of your wrist down to the floor
4. That measurement is your ideal cane length from handle to tip

When you hold the cane properly, your elbow should bend about 15 to 20 degrees.

Why measure from the wrist? Medical studies have compared different fitting methods. While measuring from the hip bone is also considered correct, the wrist measurement tends to give better balance and comfort during normal walking for most people.

Proper height for a cane: The top of your cane should align with your wrist joint when standing in your walking shoes.

Quick Estimate Based on Your Height

Need a ballpark figure? Use this calculator to get a quick estimate based on your height:

The formula is simple: take half your height in inches (rounded to the nearest 0.5 inch), then add half an inch. For example, if you're 6 feet tall (72 inches), you'd need roughly a 36.5-inch cane.

Remember: This is just an estimate. Always verify with the wrist measurement method described above for the most accurate fit.

Height and Cane Size Reference

Why Adjustable Canes Make Life Easier

Buying an adjustable cane removes the guesswork, especially when shopping online or purchasing as a gift.

Standard adjustable range: 30 inches to 38 inches (fits people from 4'11" to 6'5")

• Some models start at 28 inches for shorter users
• Most adjust in one-inch increments

Check the adjustment range before buying if you're particularly tall or short.

How to Adjust an Aluminum Cane

Most adjustable aluminum canes work the same way:

1. Loosen the locking nut
2. Press in the spring-loaded pin button
3. Slide the inner tube up or down
4. Release the pin when you reach the next hole (you should hear a click)
5. Check that the pin is fully visible through both sides of the tube
6. Tighten the locking nut

If the pin doesn't click into place completely, the height isn't secure. Try again.

Shortening a Wooden Cane

Wooden canes can be cut to size, but you can't make them longer if you cut too much.

Steps to shorten:

1. Remove the rubber tip (use hot water and dish soap if it's stuck tight)
2. Measure carefully and mark your cut line
3. Cut slightly longer than your target length first
4. Test the height, then make your final cut if needed
5. Use a miter saw or cut-off saw for a clean, straight cut

Measure twice, cut once. There's no going back with wood.

Solutions for Very Tall or Short Users

Most canes fit people between 4'11" and 6'5". If you fall outside this range, you have options:

Option 1: Custom-made cane
Custom canes guarantee a proper fit regardless of your height. This is the safest choice for anyone significantly taller or shorter than average.

Option 2: Specialty retailers
Some manufacturers make canes specifically for petite users or taller individuals. These come in set lengths outside the standard range.

Special Circumstances

Your ideal cane height can vary based on your specific condition:

• If you have shoulder, elbow, or hand weakness, a slightly shorter cane might work better
• If a medical condition prevents you from standing fully upright, measure your cane height in your typical posture, not in a forced straight stance
• When in doubt, consult with a physical therapist who can assess your gait and recommend the best height

Bottom Line

The proper cane height runs from the ground to your wrist crease when you're standing straight in walking shoes. Your elbow should bend about 15 to 20 degrees when holding the cane.

Given that 80% of cane users have the wrong height, it's worth taking five minutes to measure correctly. An improperly fitted cane doesn't just feel awkward. It genuinely increases your fall risk and can cause lasting pain.

Start with the wrist measurement method. If you're buying a walking cane online, look for adjustable models with a range that covers your measured height. And if you have any doubts, ask your doctor or physical therapist to check your fit.

Your cane should help you walk more confidently, not create new problems.