Ambulation Aids

Characteristic

Walker

Crutches

Canes

Stability

Very good

Good

Least stable

Walking speed

Slowest

Slow

Can be fast

Use on steps

None

Training needed

Easy

Strength of arms required for use

Normal

Strong arms required for weight bearing

Normal

Number of hands required for use

2

Usually 2

Usually 1

Possibility of carrying objects

Requires attachment of basket

None

Possible

Cost

Most expensive

Relatively inexpensive

Least expensive