Walking sticks -- when do I need to use one?

luminated

I see so many people with stcks and who do not seem to use them correctly and so this is something I sure don't want to do. Self diagnosis I need a stick:eek:

However even though I have told my GP many times, and increasingly in recent months, I am having significantly difficulty in walking far he hasn't suggested a stick. Is it something I should specifically ask him or wait until he says one may help?

I have several problems affecting my walking M.E. very low energy, bad knees but due for xrays soon and periphial neurapathy problems with legs.

All help appreciated and thanked

ankspon

What are you asking?

happierdaystocome

If you feel that you need a walking stick you can either purchase one yourself from a disabilities equipment shop or speak to your GP who should be able to provide one free.

There are links on line advising who to choose and use a walking stick.

luminated

davidhwdn wrote: »

What are you asking?

This: -

"However even though I have told my GP many times, and increasingly in recent months, I am having significantly difficulty in walking far he hasn't suggested a stick. Is it something I should specifically ask him or wait until he says one may help?"

Mrs_Arcanum

Would be inclined to ask your GP outright. Many may be very wary of suggesting one as they may cause other issues if not used properly and so they avoid recommending them before being asked.

hilstep2000

Whenever you feel you need to! I have MS and now use a stick all the time because I fall a lot. I also use a wheelchair if I have to walk a lot or far. I find people are more helpful if you have a stick to, they open doors for you and give up seats on buses.

luminated

Mrs_Arcanum wrote: »

Would be inclined to ask your GP outright. Many may be very wary of suggesting one as they may cause other issues if not used properly and so they avoid recommending them before being asked.

Yes I think I will do. Am seeing him towards the end of next week. Just typing up my checklist for when I see him:D

luminated

hilstep2000 wrote: »

Whenever you feel you need to! I have MS and now use a stick all the time because I fall a lot. I also use a wheelchair if I have to walk a lot or far. I find people are more helpful if you have a stick to, they open doors for you and give up seats on buses.

Yes I have the same problem inthat I feel unsteady to a point where I could fall. I have fallen in the house a number of times and once in Costa Coffee. At 15 stone & fairly solid I make a loud bang especially in Costa where a couple of young ladies jumped upto help me. They thought I had fallen because of a heart attack but bless them as they showed me someone cared?

LadyMorticia

I have a walking stick because I struggle to walk alot with my M.E and I have balance problems, also caused by M.E.

I got one before my GP suggested it and when I told her I had one but felt weird about using it, she smiled and said "Well if you need to use it, then use it".

My GP is really supportive and knows how much I struggle with day to day life so thinks that aids and adaptions are good because they enable me to be as independent as I can be.

sunnyone

Your Gp can refer you to a physio who will provide you with a stick and show you how to use it properly, if walking sticks are used wrongly they can cause more damage.

They may suggest a stick or a crutch if they think it will help you, how are your arms, shoulders and wrists because sticks and crutches really put pressure on them.

luminated

LadyMorticia wrote: »

I have a walking stick because I struggle to walk alot with my M.E and I have balance problems, also caused by M.E.

I got one before my GP suggested it and when I told her I had one but felt weird about using it, she smiled and said "Well if you need to use it, then use it".

My GP is really supportive and knows how much I struggle with day to day life so thinks that aids and adaptions are good because they enable me to be as independent as I can be.

I am glad you have a supportive GP. I have moved twice in recent years and have needed to get used to two new GP practices and haven't fully tested the new ones attitude towards the M.E. part of my health issues. I am about to submit a DLA claim and will have a full and frank chat with the new GP next week.:eek: