Walking sticks vs. canes - which is better?

I saw someone in the grocery store this weekend that had a stick that looked a bit like ski poles but with a tripod on the bottom. It was about armpit high on the guy. Something like this.
https://www.jstonewell.com

How to Correctly Use a Walking Stick, Cane or Crutch

generally, if it is too low...get back pain

if it is too high - get shoulder pain

but many more details in article...

Thank you for your reply
I will read the article

Ask for a physical therapist to give you an opinion
Or ask your orthopedic consultant to help you.

Thank you The PA said to ask the PT
PT did adjust the cane but that was 2months ago
I will schedule another PT visit
Thank you for your reply

I have a right knee issue, which is why the use of a cane initially started. So, cane is held in my left hand [I am left-handed!]. Now, I have neuropathy in my left leg, essentially no feeling from left knee down. Cane in my left hand acts as my left leg, now, in addition to providing support. As far as how I hold the cane, it is turned around, so the "shorter" side of the handle faces away from me. This puts pressure and direct interaction in a straight line. Kinda difficult to describe, but try it, and see if it feels comfortable to you.

Each person who needs a mobility aid may have to experiment to get the "yeah, this is right" combination for them!
Ginger

I used walking poles for years as I could hold my wrists in a neutral position. They were lightweight and easy on shoulders. I had pairs upstairs, downstairs, and in the car. When my mobility became more impaired and I had to use a walker, the stress on wrists and shoulders quickly became evident. At one point (having a weak left leg from polio as a baby), I was able to walk a 45 lb dog on leash with one hand and the other hand had the walking pole. I never fell. I think you should go with what gives you the greatest confidence not to fall.

I have a degenerative spine condition and have been using walking sticks for years. They are very helpful in terms of maintaining an upright posture and stability. I too can walk my 50 lb dog holding the leash in one hand and a walking stick in the other. I also have discovered that I can take the walking sticks on board a plane because TSA views them as an aid to mobility.

I have RA and do not yet need a walking aid. I do limp...but not always on the same side! My issue will be when I need one that my hands give out quickly when I have to grip something. Would a stick or cane work better, to you think? Or do people with hand issues just go directly to those little shipping-cart-style walkers? No rush on the answer...I hope.

You will have try both but I think a cane and hand /wrist brace would be helpful