why do some flutes have bent head joints like candy cains. does anyone play 1, r they better then straight head joints.

It is made that way for beginners so they have an easier reach to the keys.

or for people who need them for certain handicaps

they`re used on either beginners flutes for those who cannot reach, or even on some alto flutes (long reach) and bass flutes. On contrabass flutes, the flute is help upright and the headjint is bent around like a "and" sign