Trekking Poles as a moblity aid

[SNOOPY]

I would guess most with MS or other condition that effects mobility would not even think to use Trekking Poles. Canes are usually the first choice.

I, personally do not like canes. If you watch those that use them their walking is not "natural."

Trekking poles help with balance and endurance, as well as being a more natural walk then what you would get with a cane or walker.

You can get different "feet" such as rubber tips that can be used inside or out.

I have Black Diamond Trekking Poles with Leki rubber tips. I can easily go up and down curbs without help and I can walk farther with them than without them. They have kept me from falling on snow and ice.

I don't use or need trekking poles on a regular basis but when I do they are wonderful.

You could choose to use just one of the poles, I prefer both for balance.

Trekking Pole information:
http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/arti...ng+staffs.html

Rubber tips I have on mine:
http://www.rei.com/product/750119

[Seasha]

Thank you for posting this, Snoopy! I use trekking poles a lot for walking outside and thought about being able to use them inside or on sidewalks, streets, etc. I didn't know about the rubber tips you can use, so thank you for the tip. I will check them out

They are a great aide for walking. When I used to hike up in the mountains before MS took away my ability to do so, I used them all the time.

[wkikta]

Some very good information on using poles: http://www.activemsers.org/

And a whole lot of other things.

[MrsMole]

For those who are interested in trying this, without the big expense of the fancy hiking poles, I got a wooden walking stick from Amazon for $15 with shipping. It does come with a rubber tip and a metal spike for hills.

[boosmom]

I never walk my dog without one! I have bought them at Dick's and K-Mart.