Does anyone use walking aids in general or during flare ups? I'm finding it harder and harder to keep my balance during flare ups and I feel like I'm dragging myself around, getting around is tough. Any advice?
I use a walking cane all the time frome fibro and stroke problems. I also have a Carex walker with a seat. that way I can push it a while but if I really get tired I can lock it down and sit down. It is a life saver. Whether for fibro or stroke problems it has really helped me. Balance problems are scary no matter what the cause and you need something to support you. I have fell too many times and broken too many bones to go without help. There is nothing shameful in needing or using either, the walker is especially helpful when shopping.
I am sorry to hear that your balance is causing difficulties. I encourage you to use aids if that will help prevent falls. The damage and resulting pain from a fall isn't something you need or want. I haven't had to use any walking aids just yet but I have noticed that my balance is getting worse too. I do have my mother's cane and her walker with a seat, should I need the assistance. I know it can be a difficult decision to make; to use or not to use aids, but I think it is better to be safe than sorry. I have slipped on the ice a few times in recent years and have hurt myself and cringe at the thought of falling again. Like I said I haven't used any aids just yet, but am prepared to do so should the need arise. Keep us posted in what you decide. Keep safe, hugs. ST
Hi Mikayla!
You are speaking to the walking aids QUEEN here, LOL! I have a good 10 or so canes, all in different and beautiful colors/patterns. I use them all of the time, mostly because my balance is AWFUL. They have saved me from falling numerous times. I wouldn't want to do without. The only downside is that my arms have become weaker so it''s hard to lean my weight on the one holding the cane.
I also have purchased a purple walker with a seat. I got it so I could go through small stores and get to rest/sit when I feel weak/tired/sore. I haven't used it much yet but I will.
I also have a wheelchair in case I want to go to a big place and my sister feels up to pushing me. Unfortunately, I've put on a lot of weight since I first got ill, so this isn't as practical as the other two methods.
I mentioned each item in case you need one of them now or later. All have positives and negatives. I prefer the canes at the present time. They are easy to use and easy to transport, unlike the walker and wheelchair. They are also light- weight. You can even get one that folds up and fits into a purse.
If you feel that you would benefit from using a walking aid, I say go for it! It may keep you up and walking, which might not be the case if you take a nasty fall. I know it's hard to accept the change in your walking ability but it doesn't mean you can't still keep your dignity. I make sure to walk erectly, which I never did before, and I choose a pretty cane each day that echoes my mood. I try to make it look like an accessory, rather than medical device.
I'm not sure if I've helped you at all but I hope so. You take care of yourself and stay upright.
Smiles,
Petunia
HI Mikayla, safety is definitely very important. I find that when I am really tired my balance is MUCH worse. I often hold onto furniture in my house for balance. I haven't used a cane but if the time comes where I am unsteady too much I definitely would use it. I don't want any broken bones to contend with :-). Hugs!
And broken bones are a definite possibility. I broke my first one falling down stairs in October. Balance is incredibly important. And as an aside, Senior Centers sometimes have classes in learning how to keep your balance when you're having problems with it. Sounds good to me.
Auburnm said:
HI Mikayla, safety is definitely very important. I find that when I am really tired my balance is MUCH worse. I often hold onto furniture in my house for balance. I haven't used a cane but if the time comes where I am unsteady too much I definitely would use it. I don't want any broken bones to contend with :-). Hugs!
How odd, or a happy coincidence that I just happened to see this question, I recently bought myself a cane that can lock out into a camp chair w/solid arms to use to get back up & a set of aluminum crutches to use when a foot, ankle or knee decides to no longer hold weight for that day or many days. But I couldn't get myself to buy a wheelchair yet. I went to 1800wheelchair.com. Their prices are lower than if I went to a pharmacy, a department or a medical supply store. M
Hi Luna,
You have some cool ideas to give to Mikayla. Your cane sounds really cool! Kind of like something a spy would have, that has all kinds of things tucked away inside of it! And I never thought of using crutches for bad days but I can see how they would work. They can be purchased in pretty colors, I think.
I found that the one saving grace with buying a wheelchair is that you can get them in cool colors, like pink or even purple, I think. Mine isn't, as it was given to me, but if I were to purchase one, I'd want it in a fun color.
We may have fibro, but fibro does not have us.
Luna01 said:
How odd, or a happy coincidence that I just happened to see this question, I recently bought myself a cane that can lock out into a camp chair w/solid arms to use to get back up & a set of aluminum crutches to use when a foot, ankle or knee decides to no longer hold weight for that day or many days. But I couldn't get myself to buy a wheelchair yet. I went to 1800wheelchair.com. Their prices are lower than if I went to a pharmacy, a department or a medical supply store. M
Yes. From time to time if it is necessary, I use a cane, or possibly a walker if it is crucial. I am glad with the help of physical therapy that I don't need it as often as I used to.
I just bought my very first cane a few weeks ago (used a walking stick for awhile but didn’t work that well.) I bought a lightweight ergonomic adjustable height cane by Hugo (on Amazon, of course!) It comes in beautiful colors, I got turquoise. It has a reflective strap and a soft-grip handle, also in turquoise. It really helps, and it’s pretty too!
Hello,
I am fortunate that I don't need any walking aids as yet, but when or if I do WOW.... I am almost looking forward to it. I mean that, because Petunia and Starr have put suvh a positive spin on it! With all the different colours and functions. Thank-you for that, if we must have to deal with this difficult condition, we do need to look for the positives.
Take care, Anne
I have 2 canes that i use when the pain gets really bad and i find it difficult to walk unaided
I to wrap and tie a pretty scarf on mine. It makes me feel not so old when I use it. In fact, sometimes I hear people make comments like," Here comes our rock star." when I enter a room. That makes me feel confident about it.
Thanks for replying guys! You were all extremely helpful and I'm glad that I have someone to relate to. Now I'm wondering if it's something you decided on your own or if your doctor recommended. How did you go about choosing what aid would be best for you?
You brought up a great point with using a walker, you have the option to sit when you get too tired. I can completely relate to that because I can feel okay for a while and then notice my body slowing down and basically telling me to sit down. Haha, funny how it tells you when it's time to chill out!
Jan said:
I use a walking cane all the time frome fibro and stroke problems. I also have a Carex walker with a seat. that way I can push it a while but if I really get tired I can lock it down and sit down. It is a life saver. Whether for fibro or stroke problems it has really helped me. Balance problems are scary no matter what the cause and you need something to support you. I have fell too many times and broken too many bones to go without help. There is nothing shameful in needing or using either, the walker is especially helpful when shopping.
Luckily, I haven't taken any really nasty spills yet. You're both absolutely right, I'd much rather a walking aid by "choice" than one because I broke a bone.
Petunia Girl said:
And broken bones are a definite possibility. I broke my first one falling down stairs in October. Balance is incredibly important. And as an aside, Senior Centers sometimes have classes in learning how to keep your balance when you're having problems with it. Sounds good to me.
Auburnm said:HI Mikayla, safety is definitely very important. I find that when I am really tired my balance is MUCH worse. I often hold onto furniture in my house for balance. I haven't used a cane but if the time comes where I am unsteady too much I definitely would use it. I don't want any broken bones to contend with :-). Hugs!
Mine was recommended by physical therapist. Luckily, I already had some hand me downs available from family members that passed on.
If you don't get a doctor's prescription for one or if it does not come cheap, I have seen them at second hand stores like Good Will or Salvation Army.