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A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Redhill, UK

Some doctors and other health professionals I have seen lately have mentioned or suggested that maybe I should start thinking about using a walking stick/aid to help get around and ease some of my pains
I was just wondering if any of you use or have any experience with walking aids

I know it's stupid and petty, I don't usually care what people think in the slightest. But I'm 23 years old, I don't want to be going out with my friends and needing a walking stick to get around. Not just for my… read more

April 16, 2019
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around someone in their early twenties struggling with the decision to use a walking stick, sharing their own experiences of... Read more

Members rallied around someone in their early twenties struggling with the decision to use a walking stick, sharing their own experiences of coming to terms with mobility aids at various ages and offering both emotional validation and practical encouragement. Several members described how aids like elbow crutches, decorative canes, or foldable sticks helped them maintain independence, prevent falls, signal to others when they needed support, and ultimately do more rather than less, with many noting that using aids on bad days often allowed their bodies to loosen up enough to go without them later. A recurring theme was letting go of pride and judgment, choosing function over appearance, and recognizing that real friends will understand while mobility aids can actually make invisible struggles more visible and respected.

A MyFibroTeam Member

My doctor suggested completely opposite thing. When I mentioned that I was thinking about getting a wheelchair, he said I should not rely on a walking aid but try to toughen muscles by walking and exercising...

April 17, 2019
A MyFibroTeam Member

Actslly it is considered really cool to use two walking sticks for hiking and backpacking.
On difficulr days I use my hiking stick. I don’t want to fall when i feel unstable. I stand tall and proud and walk like i own the world. It is a wood carved walking stick and i have recieved many compliments. If it allows you to do more thing, go for it.

April 16, 2019
A MyFibroTeam Member

Lorraine, I'm a senior citizen now, but I went thru what you are going through in my teens, 20s, 30s . . . When younger I was ashamed to use a cane. I used a long umbrella (folded up) to help me. Then I got a cane with rhinestones on it. Can't say it helped their questions, but I liked it better. Unfortunately, I was not able to go many places with friends. I use a cane sometime still. No one says anything now. I often decorate it for Christmas, or color coordinate it with an outfit. Still, I don't get to go out much. I do without it as much as I can. Once you are married, you can lean on your husband. Yes, it is possible for a fibro girl to find someone to love her. That is a long story that encompassed several years.
Guess I haven't helped much. Still, if you need it, better to use it than fall and break something.
Gentle hugs for better days.
Lee

April 16, 2019
A MyFibroTeam Member

@A MyFibroTeam Member have a look here if you're interested.
www.fibroloveaffair.com
The sweet girl who writes this blog has fibro and is about your age, there are many articles about coping and I think also about using aids
Jodie is a good friend of mine, we met at the pain clinic.

April 16, 2019 (edited)
A MyFibroTeam Member

I’m on the verge of getting a walking stick myself and am thinking I’m to young for it at the age of 46 ha ha , but seriously one good friend said to me if it works use it , it’s as simple as that if you get relief or just some ease then go for it and sod what anyone else says , have some fun with it and make up a story why you need a stick to walk x

April 18, 2019

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