The Shulchan Aruch O.C. 301:17 distinguishes between two situations:

1) A person who cannot walk without using a crutch is permitted to use his crutches in Reshus haRabim, as they are considered a garment like his shoes (Mishnah Berurah 63)

2) A person who is able to walk without crutches but uses crutches to assist in walking is not permitted to use his crutches in Reshus ha'Rabim. They are considered a Masuy.

The Mishnah Berurah (#64) writes that if a person walks without using a cane when at home and only uses it when he walks outside, he falls into category #2 above. Mishnah Berurah #65 quotes the Taz that if a person has difficulty walking and must use a stick in wet or icy conditions, he is in category #1. The Mishnah Berurah himself argues, citing several Acharonim who disagree with the Taz and are stringent in this situation. The Aruch Hashulchan (301:70), however, agrees with the Taz and permits the use of a cane in icy conditions.

The Shulchan Aruch 301:18 writes that a blind person may not go out with his cane. Mishnah Berurah explains that since the blind person can walk unaided and the cane is only used to steady himself, he is in category #2. The Aruch haShulchan 302:72 limits the ruling of the Shulchan Aruch to a situation when the blind person is walking in a familiar area. When he is in a strange place. he is unable to walk unless he has his cane to feel ahead for obstacles. It is therefore permitted for him to carry a cane, as he falls into category #1.

Be well,

Ilan Segal