This episode focuses on the walking cane for knee osteoarthritis (OA). Drawing on NHMRC Level 2 evidence, it explains how daily cane use significantly reduces knee load and improves function. Learn the essential "3-Point Check" for the OSCE: measuring the cane to the distal wrist fold for optimal elbow flexion, ensuring it's used on the contralateral side, and teaching the patient to plant the cane tip simultaneously with the symptomatic foot. It also covers critical safety contraindications, such as bilateral disease and upper limb pain. Pass your exam with evidence-based precision!
Pro Tip: In your OSCE, examiners look for specific technical precision. Don't just give the patient a cane; demonstrate the height adjustment (with the patient in low-heeled shoes) and explicitly correct the patient if they try to use it on the same side as the injury. Mentioning that patients often place weight through the cane too late in the stance phase—and correcting this—demonstrates the "expert" level clinical reasoning that secures a pass. Always offer the Arthritis Australia resource to complete your management plan!
Also, listen to the osteoarthritis-related episodes:
🎧 Episodes in Season 1 (150 clinical scenarios) have been indexed by topic, patient group, discipline, setting, and more to support targeted learning. Use the filters to locate discussions relevant to your study or clinical training.
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