Back

Using a Walking Stick By Jean Burns

After I was diagnosed with pd, I resolved never to be stubborn when the time came to use a cane or walking stick. I had seen my mother & father in law need help but be too stubborn to use a cane.

Doctor Lieberman wrote that you would remain more upright using a walking stick rather than using a cane. It sounded reasonable to me. So after reading one of Dr. Lieberman’s articles one day, I decided to order a walking stick

I started looking at hiking/camping websites and also at sites selling canes. I found more choices in the hiking sites. Anyway after some web searches, I found just the one – it was collapsible, and the handle was padded, plus the top came off, and you could use it with your camera as a monopod.

I used the stick on and off, getting used to using it. And it involved in getting used to one more thing to deal with – fumbling with a stick as well as a purse! Some months later my husband started watching me and reminding me to take the stick with me each time we went out. I asked him what he saw that makes him urge me to bring the stick? He said: “You drag your foot, trip on cracks, and sometimes stumble because of foot pain.”

So I’m a believer. The stick has helped me a lot. I tend to have foot pain, and when the pain strikes while I am walking, my leg collapses a bit. The stick helps me stabilize myself.

Now I have 2 sticks: I keep a stick in the car, and one by the front door. I use the collapsible one on trips because it’s easier to carry on airplanes. Try one, you might like it!