Did you know that there are different types of white canes? On the surface they all serve the same purpose, that is to identify the user as someone who is blind or visually impaired. For many years, I have been using a Mobility cane, but for the last several weeks I have needed to resort to a support cane. Although they are both white, the two canes are very different.
I began using a support cane last month after I took a tumble. Although I didn’t break any bones when I fell, I think that I sprained every muscle and tendon in my lower back. I found it incredibly difficult and painful to stand, much less to walk. I needed support. My mobility cane didn’t do the trick. It wasn’t substantial enough.
As the name implies, a support cane is sturdy. It comes in one strong length. I have used this cane in the house to help me move about. It has also been somewhat useful when I have been in other flat surface buildings such as the local grocery store. I say somewhat useful because the support cane, unlike the mobility cane, doesn’t give me any anticipation of what might be in front of me.
A mobility cane stretches out in front of the user. When I hold this cane in front of me, I can usually detect obstacles in my path. I sweep the cane in front of me and it becomes my eyes, clearing the path ahead. This isn’t possible with the support cane, which is used in an upright position.
A mobility cane is also handier to carry than a support cane. When I’m not using the mobility cane, I can fold it up into sections and leave it on my lap or some other unobtrusive place. A support cane doesn’t fold.
I think that the other disadvantage to a support cane as opposed to a mobility cane is that it isn’t as easily recognized by other people. Yes, I know that the support cane is white, but it doesn’t stand out as distinctly as the long white mobility cane.
I am hopeful that my back will continue to improve. I am exercising and hoping that I will soon regain my former strength and balance so that I can go back to using my very helpful mobility cane.
There are two pictures with this post. In the first I am standing with a support cane. In the second I am standing with my mobility cane.
Sue with support cane
Sue with mobility cane
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