Basic rules for using a walking stick 

Dr Milena Simic, physiotherapy lecturer

So, the basic rules to using a cane is number one using it on the appropriate side so, the side opposite to the affected joint and having the correct height of the cane. We also need to make sure that the coordination is correct, so it needs to be placed on the ground at the same time as the length that you are trying to support, and the fourth thing is making sure that we place enough force through the walking stick to be able to offload that joint.  The same rules apply using a ramps or stairs with a walking cane the cane should be placed on the ground at the same time there's the affected leg 

Maintaining your walking stick

Dr Milena Simic, physiotherapy lecturer

So, canes should be able to last a lifetime, one of the things to watch out for is the rubber sole they can get worn and so if you notice that the rubber is getting a little bit cracked or  worn out you should be able to get a replacement  at most pharmacies or medical equipment stores