The research, published in Arthritis Care & Research, strongly supports using a cane on a regular basis to reduce the load borne across the knee.

Study leader Dr. Rana S. Hinman placed reflective markers on 40 volunteers -- 16 men and 24 women -- and captured their limb movements as they walked through the test walkway, which included two force plates to capture ground impact.

The study participants with a mean age of 65 had no joint replacements. Their osteoarthritis symptoms included persistent knee pain and loss of physical function.

Study participants were taught correct cane use by a physical therapist. The cane is held in the hand opposite the affected knee and moved only when the affected knee is moved.

This idea is echoed in a Web slide show by MayoClinic.com that advises patients also get help from the doctor or physical therapist to ensure the cane's grip does not cause hand problems, the rubber tip is good and the height is correct. The cane top should come up to the crease in the wrist.