LaserCane Panel Review

The LaserCane is a height-adjustable walking stick fitted with a laser cueing device specifically designed for people who experience freezing of gait (also known as just freezing) or gait ignition failure. Made in the USA, the LaserCane uses visual cueing to help trigger the first walking step and break freezing episodes.

There are multiple cueing techniques used to help people with freezing. They can be visual, auditory and vibrational.

In 2011, the University of Central Lancashire conducted a study into the effectiveness of different cueing devices for people with Parkinson’s and gait initiation difficulties. The scientists used several cueing methods during the experiment: a LaserCane, a walking stick, a sound metronome, a vibrating metronome, a walking stick and no intervention at all. The study tested a mix of 20 men and women with Parkinson’s.

The research found that the LaserCane was overall the most effective cueing device of those tested for people with Parkinson’s and gait initiation difficulties. The researchers added that the “longer term effectiveness and acceptability of cueing devices at home and outdoors still requires further investigation”.

When the LaserCane arrives, there is already a small black box fitted to the walking stick. This box contains the laser, with a large red ‘on’ button on top. The wires and laser components are well-hidden inside the cane. Batteries are included so users should be able to take the cane straight out of the box and get using it straight away.

All but one of the reviewers said the setup of the LaserCane was “very easy” and took just “a few minutes”.

However, one reviewer found it difficult to adjust the height of the pole. They said, “This was very stiff and I was worried in case I broke [the cane].” Another reviewer also mentioned that they initially struggled to find the correct height for them to feel comfortable using the cane.

On first impressions, 2 reviewers commented on the appearance of the cane. A reviewer whose main Parkinson’s concerns are freezing, falling and changes in voice volume said the cane looks “clunky”. He suggested that the manufacturers consider “a more slender, elegant design [and] a range of colours.”

The bronze/copper colour of the walking stick was also picked up on by a 77-year-old tester who commented: “There is nothing subtle about the colour of the product. It is very obviously a medical aid.”

The laser

The LaserCane is weight activated. When the stick is lightly pressed to the ground, as with normal walking stick use, the laser activates and then switches off when you lift it.

When activated, the laser projects a green line onto the ground in front of the user. Some models may come with a red laser light. The laser line on the ground gives a visual cue or target to aim for as you step, which can help trigger the first walking step, break freezing episodes and increase stride length.

The biggest concern experienced by all the reviewers was using the LaserCane outdoors. One reviewer even said it was “completely useless” when outside. The manufacturer does state that the cane is “most effective” indoors and it can be difficult to see the laser outdoors, especially on bright or sunny days.

“It was pretty useless in daylight, which is when most people go out and use a stick. The laser light was only good for indoors or shady areas outside,” said a reviewer.

Someone else added: “The laser was non-existent on sunny days.”

The cane

4 reviewers agreed that the cane was “very strong” and described it as “robust”, “sturdy” and “comfortable” to use.

Although some users found the cane easy to use, those who don’t already use a walking stick could find that it takes a while to become automatic. “I don’t normally use a walking cane. So it was a bit of a chore to carry it around,” said a 77-year-old reviewer.

This sentiment was shared by another reviewer who said it was a “nuisance” to go from 2 free hands to just 1. He added: “I never got used to it. There have been frequent instances of leaving home without it or leaving it at friends’ houses and also on trains and, on one occasion, in a restaurant. It’s better suited for someone who is ‘stick-friendly’.”

Helping with freezing

All the reviewers in our Tech Guide review panel currently experience freezing of gait, amongst other motor and non-motor Parkinson’s symptoms.

Only 1 of our 6 reviewers found the LaserCane helpful when experiencing a freezing episode.

The reviewer who had success with the LaserCane and their freezing said: “The laser was very bright and wide enough. I found it useful to help me recover from a freeze event.”

However, they did come across difficulties turning the laser on with their left hand while holding the cane in their right. They suggested that the on switch would be better placed within reach of the thumb of the hand holding the cane. “That would help a lot. I have no problem making small movements with my fingers and thumbs, but large controlled movements of my limbs are not possible during a freeze.”

This reviewer does not usually use a walking stick. And they felt that “the benefit did not outweigh the inconvenience of taking the LaserCane out with me”, even though it did help with their freezing.

2 other reviewers found that the cane didn’t assist with freezing, but did help prevent falls and helped keep them steady during dizzy spells.

“It’s helped with my balance but not my freezing,” said a female tester whose main concerns are falling and freezing and had not used a walking stick before.

A male reviewer who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s last year said: “It is simple to use and I use it all the time now…The LaserCane has made my walking safer and I am less likely to fall over.”

The LaserCane costs £330 including VAT. For people who do not have to pay VAT on medical devices, it costs £275. Find out more about VAT exemption and see if you’re eligible here.

In some cases, the LaserCane can be prescribed through the NHS. This process can be somewhat complicated and LaserCane supplier, Attainability, recommends talking to your physiotherapist about the LaserCane first and then requesting that the physiotherapist get in touch with Attainability to place an order.

The distributor offers a 2-week, no-quibble money back guarantee and a 12-month warranty.

All the reviewers thought that the product was too expensive and would not buy it.

A reviewer who has lived with Parkinson’s for 11 years said: “It’s definitely not worth the price.” Another added: “It is very expensive for what it is.”

Price was even an issue for a reviewer who said the LaserCane had made their life better and who would definitely recommend it. “I do not have a lot of spare money and this cost is something I could not afford. If it were under £100, I would certainly buy it.”