Hiking Sticks for the Fall Season

As the leaves fall and hiking trails get more slippery (or with that low back or knee injury) it’s time to consider Hiking sticks for the Fall season.  A walking stick is great for hiking and – even around town – can help people with knee pain or injury by reducing the load and pressure on the affected joint. It can also improve balance, stability, and posture, and prevent further damage to the knee.  In this installment we talk about a single stick. Stay tuned for a future chapter on twin poles, some of which even have shock absorbers.  The cool thing is – sticks are everywhere, and sometimes finding the right one adds to the fun. At the same time, professional poles and staffs can be affordable.. 

Why a Stick?

Here are some benefits and tips on how to use a walking stick for knee pain or injury:

• A walking stick can help with knee pain by taking some of the weight off the knee, which can reduce pain and swelling. It can also help to stabilize the knee, preventing further injury. Walking sticks have been shown to be effective in the treatment of chronic pain in older people’s hips, knees, and lower back 1.
• To use a walking stick, hold it in your opposite hand to the side that hurts. For example, if your right knee hurts, hold the walking stick in your left hand. This way, the walking stick and the affected leg move together, and the walking stick supports the leg when it bears the most weight 2.
• The height of the walking stick should be adjusted so that your elbow is slightly bent when you hold it. The top of the walking stick should be level with your wrist when your arm is hanging by your side. To measure the height, stand up straight with your shoes on and ask someone to measure the distance from your wrist to the floor 2.
• When walking with a walking stick, keep it close to your body and move it in sync with your affected leg. Place the walking stick about one step ahead of you, and then step forward with your affected leg. Then, bring your good leg forward and past the affected leg. Repeat this pattern as you walk 3.
• When going up or down stairs with a walking stick, remember the phrase “up with the good, down with the bad”. This means that you should always lead with your good leg when going up stairs, and with your bad leg when going down stairs. Use the handrail for extra support if available, and place the walking stick on the same step as your bad leg 2.

Should I consult before I buy?

Using a walking stick can help you to walk more comfortably and safely with or without knee pain or injury. However, it is important to consult a doctor or physiotherapist before using a walking stick, as we can advise you on the best type and size of walking stick for your condition. At Blue Heron Chiropractic, we can also teach you how to use it properly and avoid any potential problems. A walking stick is not a substitute for treatment, but a helpful tool to assist you in your recovery. Set up an appointment for a consult.

Is Blue Heron Chiropractic masking for the COVID-19 Pandemic at this time?

A lot of people are still getting sick and knocked out of work for a weeks at a time. Immune compromised people are challenged, and some folks have developed Long Covid. While increased immunity has helped decrease the severity of responses in non-immune-compromised people, the sickness can still knock you out for a week or more.  The Doctor is going to mask for your session. Your mask is optional. Staff is always vaccinated and boosted. We remain protective for folks who are immune compromised, have “Long Covid”, or need special considerations. A patient can wear their own mask at any time – or we can provide one.  If you have flu-like symptoms and are sneezing, coughing or blowing, we may provide you with a mask in order to continue to serve you better. Feel free to mention symptoms to us when you call in to confirm your appointment.  Access Chiropractic safely and securely at Blue Heron Chiropractic & Healing Arts Center, with Dr. Dana Sibilla, DC DABCO FIANM.

Want some more chiropractic reading? Try our prior blog on Sciatica or Piriformis Syndrome.