#also the tattoo is an isopod and his name is Hermon and he curls up when I bend my wrist

[starful-emporium]

for any hypermobile folk thinking about using a mobility aid: I've been using a cane occasionally for the past few months and I've had to replace it.

So my two tips if you're also hypermobile and needing a cane:

Get one that has a height option shorter than you need based on your height. This is most relevant if your wingspan is more than your height.

Pay attention to handles! Offset has been best for me, but there are also options designed for Carpal Tunnel that are also good for hypermobility (though more expensive)

The more common handles are called derby handles and look like this

There are a few ways to grip it and they all messed with my wrist/finger joints in different ways

Putting any pressure on the cane just went directly to my wrist--and I already draw and type a lot. I actually dislocated my knuckles a few times while holding it, and now I consistently dislocate a few joints that I didn't used to 🙃

And the new one has a handle like this

Which allows me to hold it like this

It's much more comfortable and easy to walk with.

The other problem I've had is the height. Every listing will give "suitable heights," but for hypermobile people, height isn't the most accurate measure. Hypermobile people often have Marfanoid features, which includes longer arms that average. The grip of your cane should be at the crease of your wrist with your arm relaxed.

The first cane, although made for 5'4 and taller, was still about 2" too tall for me (and I'm 5'6!). Might not seem like much, but it made me bend my wrist more than I should. The second cane I got had to sacrifice folding for more height options. The shortest adjustment is 29" and I have it a little taller than that.

Hope this helps someone! Mobility aids can be life-changing, but it's super important to know how to find the right kind for your needs.