What is a quad cane?
A quad cane is a walking stick with four small feet at the bottom, instead of one. The four feet are spread in a small rectangle, so the cane stands up by itself.
That wider base gives more support than an ordinary cane and less than a walking frame.
Why does it matter?
Choosing the right aid is a safety decision. Too little support leaves a person at risk of falling, and too much can make them lean on it and walk less well.
A quad cane suits people who need extra steadiness on one side, for instance after a stroke. It also helps those who find it hard to get an ordinary cane to stay upright when they stop.
An everyday example in Ipoh
Mr Karim had a stroke and walks with his left side weaker. He uses a quad cane in his right hand for the short walk from the lounge to the front gate of his terrace house in Falim.
We set the height so that his elbow bends slightly, practise the order of moves (cane, then the weaker leg, then the stronger leg) and check the rubber feet are not worn. We also show his wife how to walk beside the weaker side.
Related terms and next steps
If you need more support, look at the walking frame. For one-sided weakness read hemiplegia, and for the whole plan see stroke rehabilitation at home.
Our walking aids guide compares each type. After an operation you may be given crutches instead.