In the diagonal technique, where should the cane be extended to?

In the diagonal technique, extending the cane about an inch beyond the body is essential for effective and safe mobility. This positioning allows the user to detect obstacles and variations in the walking surface immediately in front of them. By maintaining the cane slightly ahead, the individual has a better chance to react to potential hazards before reaching them, which enhances personal safety and independence while navigating the environment.

Positioning the cane too high, such as at shoulder height or eye level, would reduce the immediate feedback the user can receive from their surroundings, as it wouldn’t allow for proper surface detection. Additionally, placing the cane even with the feet can result in a lack of awareness of what lies ahead, making it more challenging to navigate safely and efficiently. Thus, extending the cane about an inch beyond the body strikes an optimal balance between awareness and control, promoting effective mobility for the user.