As you search on the internet, walking sticks and walking canes are oftentimes interchangeably used. Yet as you dig deeper, these two words have a big difference. First is that the walking stick has originated in Europe as the Europeans substituted their swords with this powerful unbending pole as their new weapon and eventually has changed the course of their wardrobe fashion as it became part of their clothing. While the word walking cane appears to come originally in North America copying the image of a shepherd’s staff, that is an arched-peak stick which is a bit shorter and heavier though. However, even if their origins where different yet, since there might be a possibility that in one way or another they have been influencing each other, both of them played a fashionable role in wardrobe. Walking stick and walking cane were used by high ranking people in society as a luxurious fashionable accessory. Their quality determines the wealth and title of their owner as they were manufactured with ornamented jewels and were usually acquired as gifts from very important personnel in the society.

Yet, as decades passed by, there was an evolution in the purpose and usage of walking stick and walking cane. For the walking stick, as from being a fashionable accessory to becoming a tool used by people for maintain balance while walking. Though it has a similar meaning to a walking cane, yet its focus is on for non-medical purposes. The kind of people who uses walking stick is the so-called hiker or climber. In this case, a walking stick can be any stick that is durable and offers security and fashion or any embedded ornaments is not highly recommended. The walking stick then helps the hikers to clear their path from bushes or spider webs, support them and give balance when traveling on unleveled grounds, and as weapon against wild animals.

On the other hand, walking cane is used for medical purposes. Basically, just like a walking stick, it must also be long-lasting and must secure safety to the user but fashion and any beautification can also be applicable. A walking cane is purposed to aid a fragile limb, to hasten the recovery from a surgical treatment, to support walking mobility, and to help the old ones not to get tired easily. It is commonly used after physical treatment and rehabilitation. In addition to, it can also be a fashionable accessory and a collectible item as it can be ornamented with gemstones and be furnished with gold or silver plating. Some walking canes are being shown during art exhibits. Its purpose already evolves from mere medical aid for patients to fashion, prestige and affluence.

Both seem alike, but it is clearly stated as to what is the difference between a walking stick and a walking cane. Though both can be interchangeable yet the usage of each tool or devise is highly classified in each of them. Now, you do not need to be confused with any of the words.