I've started using a cane in the last year when I am out in public, except at a store with a shopping cart that I can use like a walker. I picked up a cheap cane at Walgreen's one day and that's what I'm using. It's metal and it's adjustable, which makes it rattle every time I take a step. I'd like to get something less noisy, and I've seen walking poles on the internet. I like the way it looks - no as much like a cane but same function. I have ski poles at home but they have spikes on them for the ice and I don't want that. Just something I can use to walk through the mall or at the park. I'm not out walking on ice anymore these days - too dangerous. Just thought I'd ask if anyone has one they recommend. All the choices on the websites overwhelms me. MS brain!
Hi, Hidden , I believe there was a post on this not too long ago. I use forearm crutches. They are adjustable and make noise, too, so I can't help you. But I know we have others here who can. I hope you find what works best for you. And 🛒? I LOVE them! 💕
I'm the most comfortable at a store with a shopping cart. I practically feel normal (as in, I don't look drunk) because the people around me don't know I'm using it as a walker! Thanks Tutu!
A few months ago I was transporting my mom's walker from one place in the hospital to another...I loved the ease and security it provided.
I get the same f on a shopping cart.
I'm thinking I should stay as safely independent in ambulating as long as I can though. It's just that the amt. of support/aid I need can really vary from moment to moment
Hi Hidden . I bought Nordic walking poles. I use only one. I probably didn't buy the name brand, but the features that I like are: a finger grip/stop, adjustable height, and a loop to put my hand through. I use it every day as I walk on these mountain roads. I bought 2, but it seems to take too much coordination for me to use both.
I just went for a walk with my husband in a big local park this afternoon. Part of the walk was off the beaten path and I was working my way through some 10 inch high weeds and moose droppings - always fun to dodge. Walking through the weeds with that extra resistance against my feet was bad enough, but my cane was getting tangled up in the weeds also. I really think the walking poles will work better on different terrain especially where there is some undergrowth. I'll check out the Nordics. Thanks Iona!
I use a cane that the handle is like a hook because you can hook it on something like a chair or a counter so it doesn't fall this when you are leaning it on something while you are sitting down. The noise you maybe hearing is the part on the cane where you can tighten it. I found this out when my cane collapsed on me while I was walking,tighten it up and you might not hear that noise again.
You might want to go to a medical store and check them out just to see what they have it
Might be a little more money but it maybe made stronger.
I recently bought walking poles on Amazon. They are taking some adjustment to learn to use which is resulting in more energy expenditure. So I've been lazy and not practicing with them. Bet they will be great once I coordinate and adjust to a hem.
Hi, I wanted to do something with a little more personality when I started using a stick. I call my Walking-stick my shillelagh, that's because of a little bit Irish in me. It is made of iron wood, very strong, very light. I got it from brazos-walking-sticks.com, in 2009. I just checked, they are still around and have an active website.
Make sure you get the right height for you. I'm pretty short so mine is only about a 4 foot stick. I get compliments on it almost every week. (favorite was "Did you get that at Falling Rock?" Frank Lloyd Wright's famous house. ) It makes me look less old lady (which I am now but wasn't then) . Good luck.
Thank you all. Your suggestions and comments give me some direction with some options to think about. Y'all are the best!
I once used one adjustable-length pole. But, it broke/collapsed and I had to crawl back to my car. I haven't bought fixed-length poles yet.
FYI
I have seen a calculation involving your height on the recommended length of a non-adjustable walking pole. Can't find it.
From the Internet:
Stand flat-footed in the same boots (or shoes) you plan to hike in. Hold one hiking pole in each hand, poles vertical and tips resting on the ground, and let your upper arms stay relaxed at your side. If the poles are the right size for you, your elbows will naturally bend at a comfortable 90-degree angle.
Another Method: Height and - Suggested Pole Length
< 5 ft. 1 in. - 100cm (39 in.)
5 ft. 1 in. – 5 ft. 7 in. - 110cm (43 in.)
5 ft. 8 in. – 5 ft. 11 in. - 120cm (47 in.)
6 ft.+ - 130cm (51 in.)
"Most people set their poles between 115cm and 125cm."
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