Final answer:
An individual using a cane should hold it on the opposite side of their deficit to maintain balance by keeping their center of gravity supported. Adjusting their posture may be necessary when carrying additional weight like a backpack. Consistency in the side of cane use is key for stability.
Step-by-step explanation:
An individual using a cane for mobility assistance should hold the cane on the side opposite their deficit to help support their body weight and maintain balance. This method is recommended because the cane acts as an extended arm, reaching the ground and providing an expanded base of support for the user.
For example, if a person has a deficit on their left leg, they would hold the cane in their right hand to ensure the body weight is properly distributed across both the legs and the cane. It's essential for stability that the user's center of gravity stays within this base of support created by their feet and the cane.
While carrying a backpack or bag is not strictly forbidden, it is important to keep the overall center of gravity (cg) above the base of support. This might require leaning slightly to the side to balance the extra weight of the backpack or bag. However, there isn't a one-size-fits-all solution like a hemi walker, and switching the cane from one side to another frequently can be destabilizing and is generally not recommended.