Safety Guide to Walking Sticks and Fischer Walking Sticks

Safety Guide to Walking Sticks and Fischer Walking Sticks 

Patient Information 

Therapy Services

• Author ID: HJ
• Leaflet Ref: Tpy 004 
• Version: 8 
• Leaflet title: Safety Guide to Walking Sticks and Fischer Walking Sticks
• Date Produced: January 2023
• Expiry Date: January 2025

Use of your walking stick 

The walking stick(s) are provided to give you assistance with your balance, and to reduce the amount of weight taken through your affected leg(s). 

A member of staff will instruct you in the safe use of the walking sticks and adjust the height to suit your individual needs. 

Safety points to remember 

1. The walking stick(s) has been issued and measured for you personally and should not be given to someone else. 
2. Follow the technique instructions from the issuing member of staff. 
3. For safety you should regularly check that the stick is not split, or the ferrule (the rubber end to the stick) not worn – it should have a tread like a car tyre to prevent it slipping during use and can become dangerous if smooth. 
4. If you are concerned about its safety or need advice about its use, please contact your issuing department. 
5. If you no longer need your crutches they can be returned to the hospital at your next visit. 

Be safe–follow these tips 

• Remove obstacles to walking such as loose rugs, draught excluders and worn floor coverings. These can be a trip hazard. 
• Make sure lighting where you are walking is adequate, particularly in halls and stairways 
• Wear flat supportive shoes rather than slippers; ideally, they should fasten securely to your feet. 
• Avoid wet floors. 
• Beware of outdoor hazards e.g. uneven surfaces, wet leaves and ice. 

Additional telephone numbers 

Wrightington Main Switchboard: 01942 244000 

Wrightington Inpatient Physiotherapy: 

01257 256307 

Wrightington Outpatient Physiotherapy: 

01257 256305 

Wrightington Outpatients: 

01257 256295