How to learn to walk without a stick.
Posted , 12 users are following.
Hi I'm currently 10 weeks post op and walking indoor without a stick but outside using one stick. How do I get off using the stick? I currently walk around 1 or 2 miles a day with it. But really want to get so that I don't need it. What has everyone else done to achieve this? Thanks
1 like, 16 replies
Guest Sarah_Haggart
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Nick
herse Sarah_Haggart
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herse
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tony1967 Sarah_Haggart
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I would say just go for it but go on a short walk first and then build up from there, take someone with you first time for moral support.
You will be fine just need confidence in yourself.
barbara_72197 Sarah_Haggart
Posted
I would say that you are ready to give up the sticks when you start leaving them behind when walking around the house. You naturally don't depend on them, when you are strong enough. 10 weeks is not al long time from a major surgery, all of those muscles are trying to go back to normal. It takes time.
I was very keen to give them up, but I reinjured the muscles. So be careful!
Best of luck! Barbara 😊
beth2509 barbara_72197
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I totally agree. I am getting fed up of "hunt the stick"!
maggie93798 Sarah_Haggart
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maggie93798
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steve86482 Sarah_Haggart
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maureen44782 Sarah_Haggart
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I left my crutches behind after Physio once and she said that maybe I didn't need them anymore. Confidence, that thing that eludes, especially me. Crutch in more ways than one...but we've been through quite a bit!
judith12644 Sarah_Haggart
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Hi Sarah, I was using a crutch until my 6 week physio appointment, and I was told I didn't really need anything. So I practised walking with the physio, and then came home on the bus with nothing. It felt really weird at first, but I quickly became more confident. If you are walking at home without your stick, you sound as though you are doing well. Maybe begin with some short walks outside. ( Perhaps with someone?) Good luck!
hope4cure Sarah_Haggart
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Sarah_Haggart hope4cure
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judith12644 Sarah_Haggart
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beth2509 Sarah_Haggart
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I fully understand how nervewracking it is. I was using a stick for the last three years. For most of the last year I have been on crutches (not entirely due to the hip). I can't walk outside without my stick, and I don't trust myself in bigger distances or in unfamiliar places without my crutches, as my ankle can give way - as it has done once already since the hip surgery, dumping me on the ground at only two weeks post-op. So it's a matter of confidence for all of us. But I do now manage to keep losing my stick in the house, so I guess that is my brain telling me I don't need it there, and I'm listening to it!
?When you are ready to "let go" you will. Just keep a balance in all things and don't overdo it. But it would probably be worth looking into some back strengthening exercises. My physio has had me doing these for the last several months to maintain my back strength after I couldn't manage my yoga ones - because I couldn't get off the ground afterwards! Ho hum... life!