A cane is used to provide additional stability while walking. They are gripped in the hand and act as a “third leg” to provide support while moving one of the other legs. Canes are affordable and may help an ALS patient with walking for a moderate amount of time.
An individual with ALS only benefits from a cane if they retain a moderate amount of grip strength. A larger cane grip is beneficial as it is easier to hold. The cane may slip out of the hand if it is not gripped firmly, which could cause a fall. The user should hold the cane in whichever hand has greater grip strength. If grip strength of both hands is similar, it should be held in the hand that is on the opposite side to the weakest leg.
Lower limbs which are significantly weakened or low grip strength require the use of a walker or wheelchair instead of a cane.