Problems with traditional rubber cane tips and cane tip design based on the human ankle–foot mechanism

Abstract

Canes are mobility devices used by people who have some walking problems and want to move independently in areas where they cannot use wheelchairs easily. The traditional rubber tips are more prone to fall injuries. Few studies have concluded that using a cane can fall due to skidding or off–balancing. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 45 users (who were the present user of a walking stick) to find the problems associated with traditional rubber tips and their relation with fall or skidding. To reduce the problem with traditional rubber tips, a newer design was proposed based on human ankle behavior to reduce falling/skidding and increase slip angle for independent walk on–ramp surface. The survey results show that traditional rubber tip (35%) was more prone to fall and skid accidents. People required more assistance on–ramp surface (38%) than a straight surface (35%). The mathematical model and simulation result shows that the new design mimics the mechanism of the normal human ankle. The findings showed that by using the human ankle mechanism, the functioning of canes on–ramp surfaces can be improved, and users' mobility needs may be better met.