How to Correctly Use a Walking Stick | Step-By-Step Instructions

For the full breakdown, see our best Wooden Walking Stick guide.

Using a walking stick seems straightforward, but doing it wrong can throw off your balance or put extra strain on your joints. The correct technique helps you walk more steadily, take pressure off a sore leg, and stay safe on stairs. This guide covers the proper height, which hand to use, the walking pattern, and how to handle chairs and steps.

Find the Right Height for Your Walking Stick

Stand upright in your normal walking shoes with your arms relaxed at your sides. The handle of the walking stick should reach the crease of your wrist. Your elbow should have a slight bend of about 15 to 20 degrees when you hold the stick. If the handle is higher or lower, adjust the stick before using it. When standing with the stick in place, it should sit about 4 to 6 inches out from your leg — not directly in front of you.

Which Hand Should You Hold the Walking Stick In?

If you have one weak, painful, or injured leg, hold the walking stick in the hand on your stronger side — the opposite hand to the painful leg. For example, if your right leg is sore, hold the stick in your left hand. This keeps your weight balanced and lets the stick share the load with your good leg. If you are using the stick mainly for general balance rather than a specific leg problem, hold it in whichever hand feels most comfortable, and move the stick first, then the opposite leg.

How to Walk With a Walking Stick on Level Ground

Stand up straight with your shoulders relaxed and look ahead, not down at your feet. Move the walking stick forward first, slightly out to the side so your foot does not catch it. Step forward with your weak or painful leg at the same time as the stick. Then bring your stronger leg through to meet it. Keep the stick close to your body the whole time. This pattern — stick and weak leg together, then strong leg — gives you a steady three-point support cycle.

Standing Up, Sitting Down, and Using Stairs

To stand up from a chair, place the walking stick near the chair within easy reach. Lean forward slightly, grip the chair arms with your free hand, and push up using your stronger leg. Once you are standing and balanced, pick up the stick. To sit down, back up until you feel the chair lightly touch the backs of both legs. Place the stick where you can grab it, reach for the chair arms, and lower yourself slowly. For stairs, always use a handrail if one is available. Going up: step up with your stronger leg first, then bring the weak leg up, and lastly move the stick. Going down: place the stick on the lower step first, then step down with the weak leg, followed by the stronger leg. If you feel unsafe on stairs or uneven ground, ask for assistance.

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Common Mistakes and Safety Checks

The most frequent error is holding the stick on the same side as the painful leg, which throws your weight off-center. Other mistakes include setting the stick too far forward or too far to the side, carrying the stick in the air instead of placing it on the ground when you step, and leaning too far forward or sideways. Check the rubber tip on the bottom of the stick regularly — replace it if it is worn or damaged. A walking stick is designed for light support and balance; if you need substantial weight-bearing help, a walker may be more appropriate. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model, especially for folding or adjustable sticks.