I have been using a walking stick to help with getting around but now find that it is getting to painful. I am also having trouble with bala

[11rooky54]

[soozie]

Hi there ,I also have the same problems & I've got a 4 wheel walker which I use indoors & also used it around the shops. I got mine free from occupationial health visitor... Excuse my spelling.... You can buy them at disability shops & I think Argos sold them to.... There perfect for your balance & if u need to sit down ,there's a seat to sit on. Mine has a lid which you can store my daily stuff in.... I use mine everyday by my sofa,so always on hand when needed..... Hope this helps xx

[11rooky54]

How did u get to see occupational health?

[Lorraine1966 in reply to 11rooky54]

if you ring adult social services in your area and tell them you need an assesment they come and see what they can do to help you I got grab rails etc put in

[Fibrofoggiest]

Hi there rooky, of course I don't know where you live, but in deepest darkest Devon our local cottage hospital runs a Balance Group to help people who are having problems with falls etc. It might be an idea to ask at your local surgery whether they know of any such courses in your area.

Sorry not to be of more help, but sending positive vibes your way

Foggy x

[TheAuthor]

Hi 11rooky54

I used to walk with a stick and found my balance a problem. I am in a wheelchair at the moment but nothing to do with fibromyalgia as I have broken a disc. I am ordering a tri-walker which are those little 3 wheeled walking frames. Maybe something like that could help you?

You take care and hope you get things sorted.

Ken (the author) x

[moonstonebright]

I use a walking stick in the house but it does hurt my arms but outdoors I use a wheelchair or mobility scooter as I can't drive anymore. I have problems with my balance but have been told that this can be a symptom of fibro. Unfortunately there isn't a balance clinic near me like foggy said about but it might be a good idea to check if there is one near you. I'm sorry you're struggling!

Take care

Moonstone x

[11rooky54]

Thanks everyone. Im seeing my Dr next week & will investigate. I live in Saltash which is just in Cornwall

[Susan20067389 in reply to 11rooky54]

I have had problems with my balance I have learned to get up slowly and take my time when possible. X

[Sthandra]

I to have a problem with balance I tend to fall at least once a day it can be very scary as the top of the stairs are right next to my bedroom door I also have a problem with my knees collapsing, good luck with tour Dr hope you get some answers. Sithandra

[Rob70]

I use a crotch. I find it much easier than a walking stick. It was too much to grip the walking stick to keep upright and I'd drop it. With a crotch I can let go and it stays attached to my arm

[fibro in reply to Rob70]

Mine dont, i have open crutches, bought them myself from red cross shop, they are purple i find them more comfortable than the others. I have been using a stick or crutches for over 15 years now. It can be a pain dropping them like you say, but i have bought a little hand strap that helps. Xx

[Ginsing]

Hi I found balance was becoming a increasing issue, the phsio d myself decided on crutches as they alter your stance giving a slightly better posture where you are actually in forward motion - I kept falling back ward. So far it has worked I am more routed to the ground. Hope this helps

[11rooky54]

Thanks Im seeing Doc 2morrow. Will investigate options

[fibro]

I certainly agree that crutches, or even just one, keep you more up right, however i seen so many people using them at the wrong height, even walking straight out of a physio dept.... I guess they will end up back in there with shoulder pain.

Its so important to make sure they have been adjusted to the correct length for your height. A friend of mine is having her hip replaced this week.... Friday 13th of all days, and she was telling me that she had been using a wooden stick outside, but wasn't until she saw a physio that she realised it was miles too tall for her and could have easily toppled over. I haven't seen her in a few years since moving away. Its scary though as you think a stick could help but you could do more harm if you fall xx