Immediate effects and perceptions of cane use on mobility in individuals with Parkinson's disease

Assistive devices are prescribed to support mobility in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD); however, their effects and users' perceptions remain poorly understood. This study investigated the immediate effects and perceptions of cane use in individuals with PD as a secondary analysis of the baseline cohort of an ongoing randomized clinical trial (NCT06950255).

After receiving a single-point cane and standardized instructions, participants' mobility was assessed under randomized conditions (with/without the cane) using the 10-Meter Walk Test and the Timed "Up and Go" test and then answered questions about their perceptions of cane use.

Fifty individuals were included (68% male; age 64 ± 9 years; disease duration 72 ± 60 months; 90% HY stage 2, 2.5, or 3). Cane use resulted in a clinically important reduction in gait speed (MD:-0.25 m/s; 95%CI -0.36 to - 0.14), and smaller decreases in cadence, step length, and sequential mobility. Participants most frequently reported no change in fear of falling and performance. Perceived need for a cane increased, and satisfaction was high.

Immediate cane use may negatively affect mobility, however perceived benefits and acceptance of the device are not directly aligned with these changes. Cane prescription should consider both user perceptions and objective mobility changes.