Best Walking Sticks and Canes for Arthritis or Joint Pain

If joint pain or stiffness is slowing you down, using a cane or walking stick can be a game changer. It helps take weight off sore joints, especially your knees or hips, while boosting balance and safety. Walking sticks also give a wider base of support, reducing the risk of falls and making movement feel more secure.

What are the best types of walking sticks or canes for Arthritis or joint pain?

The right cane or stick depends on your level of arthritis, how much support you need, and how often you’ll use it. Here are the most popular types:

Standard (single-point) walking stick

Best for: Mild arthritis or when you need a small boost in balance.
This lightweight option is ideal for day-to-day walking. It’s simple, easy to carry, and adjusts well to different heights. A good example is our foldable walking stick with flashlight, which is sturdy yet light enough to use for longer walks.

Folding cane

Best for: Travel or occasional support.
If you only use a cane now and again, a folding design is perfect. Our pink aluminium foldable walking cane collapses down for easy storage in a handbag or car, making it perfect for days out.

Adjustable walking cane

Best for: Anyone who wants the perfect fit.
Cane height makes a huge difference in comfort and posture. An adjustable walking cane in blue lets you fine-tune the height to match your build, so your shoulders stay level, and your gait is more natural.

Offset canes and sticks

Best for: Moderate pain or those relying heavily on their cane.
The slight curve in this cane style helps shift your weight directly over the shaft, which eases strain on wrists and shoulders. Offset canes are a great middle ground between light and supportive designs.

Ergonomic or soft-handle walking sticks

Best for: Arthritis in the hands or grip problems.
If holding a cane hurts, a walking stick with soft handle provides extra cushioning. We also carry right-handed walking stick and left-handed walking stick models with ergonomic grips that follow the shape of your hand, reducing strain and keeping your wrist aligned.

Quad or tripod sticks

Best for: Balance issues or post-surgery recovery.
These canes have a wider base with three or four contact points, giving better stability if your arthritis affects both legs or your balance. They’re a little heavier but provide a rock-solid feel.

Shock-absorbing canes and walking sticks

Best for: Joint sensitivity or wrist pain.
A cane with a built-in shock absorber is excellent if your arthritis causes pain in your upper body. It softens impact when the cane strikes the ground, reducing strain on your hands, wrists, and elbows.

Hiking poles or Nordic walking poles

Best for: Outdoor walking or exercise.
These are perfect if you love nature walks. By engaging your upper body, they can reduce stress on hips and knees. They aren’t always suitable for every type of arthritis, so check with a physio before committing.

Shop our range of Walking Sticks and Canes in Ireland

How do I choose the right walking stick?

As a mobility shop in Dublin, our advice is to focus on your main needs first:

• Stability vs portability: If safety is your top concern, choose a quad walking stick. If you need something lightweight, a folding or adjustable stick works best.
• Comfort in the handle: Soft or ergonomic grips are worth it if hand pain is an issue.
• Correct height: Your cane should reach the crease of your wrist when standing straight.
• Weight and materials: Aluminium and carbon fibre canes are strong yet lightweight, while wood has a classic look but can be heavier.
• Terrain: Swap out worn rubber tips for safety. Winter walking? Look for tips with built-in ice grips.

We also stock walking sticks in a wide range of styles and finishes, so you’re not stuck with one generic look.

Read our ultimate guide to walking sticks and canes.

How do you use a cane properly?

Using a cane the wrong way can actually worsen pain, so take a few minutes to get it right:

• Hold it in your stronger hand, opposite your weaker leg.
• Step forward with your sore leg and move the cane at the same time.
• Keep your back straight and avoid leaning heavily on the stick.
• On stairs, lead with your stronger leg going up and your weaker leg going down.

It can take a few weeks to get used to a cane, but your posture and walking confidence will improve over time.

Learn how to maintain your walking cane.

When is a cane or a walking stick not enough?

Some arthritis or mobility issues may call for more than just a cane. If you need more stability, you might benefit from a walking frame or walking aids with wheels. For those who like to stay active, rollators in Ireland are a popular choice because they combine wheels with a seat for resting. If your mobility needs are temporary, such as after surgery, crutches may be the right fit. We also carry a full range of disability aids to help you stay safe and independent.

Conclusion

Using the right walking stick or cane can ease arthritis pain, improve balance, and boost confidence while walking. From ergonomic handles to adjustable or folding designs, there’s a solution for every need. If unsure which walking stick or cane is right for you, we can help you at Medpoint. Our store is located in Shankill, Dublin 18.

Supporting info: Cleveland Clinic

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