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Mobility Aids and update

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Chronic Pain
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Posted 10/11/2016 3:26 AM (GMT 0)
Hi, all!

I dropped in a couple weeks ago (I think) to ask for advice about dealing with acceptance and bringing up the idea of chronic pain to my disabled parents and abled friends, and the comments I received were so helpful and kind and I really appreciated it.

I did end up talking to my mom about what was happening and explained that I didn't want to invalidate her experience, because obviously I can't know how she feels, but I was struggling and needed her acceptance. Somehow, it worked out great, and she was the one to suggest the possibility of the particular disorder I had been speculating. I talked with her about the possibility of using mobility aids of some kind to help me have more energy and not hurt so badly, especially when I have a very long day with lots to do, and she seemed supportive.

My question now is basically, which would probably be the most effective for me. I'm working on getting in with a doctor to start a diagnosis and treatment program, but I still feel like if there is something out there to help me in the meantime, it would be just silly not to use it.

Because my pain is on both sides and I have balance problems, I'm not sure a cane is the best option. I don't have a "worse side" to use it with. I also have a lot of problems with my feet, which I have done physical therapy for with little improvement, so I'm concerned about any kind of aid not taking enough pressure off my feet to allow me to do what I need to without living in sneakers (which I'm not allowed to wear at my job and, as an education major and a 21-year-old woman, I have to basically dress like a Pinterest model everywhere I go). I could scrape up the cash to pay out of pocket for a lower-end manual wheelchair, rollator (we have a couple around the house that might work, but they're probably too tall and the cushion hurts my back), or forearm/elbow crutches. A scooter is kind of out of the question. Too expensive, too cumbersome, and it wouldn't fit in my car or as easily in a classroom.

I posted about this on a reddit forum with a huge mixed bag of suggestions, so I thought I would expand my survey base to see what others might suggest. There may be something I haven't thought of, too!
Thanks for your help! :)
Posted 10/11/2016 2:40 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Dashes, one thing I can tell you is even with chronic pain we have to be as active as we can possibly be so hold that thought. I would be extremely careful using crutches & even a cane. Without being properly trained to use these can cause more problems. You mentioned having therapy on your feet, what was your diagnosis in order to receive therapy?

You really need to see a dr ASAP to receive a proper diagnosis. Take care.
Posted 10/11/2016 2:55 PM (GMT 0)
I would aim for a complete physical and diagnostic profile. could be so many things going on, posture, gait, lumbar, etc, etc. correct dx will lead to the correct treatments that will be most beneficial to you. keep strong, and welcome.
Posted 10/11/2016 3:45 PM (GMT 0)
Just stopping in to answer some stuff:

I went to a podiatrist about a year and a half ago (about six months after spraining my ankle) and she said I had an abnormal gait, most likely because of the way my hips are aligned. She suggested PT to build up strength in my weaker ankle and my hips. I did that for several months until the therapist and I both decided I had made as much progress as I could at the time.

Also, I'm in the process of getting a doctor. Most of the GP's where I live are filled up and not taking patients, so it's taking me a little while to figure it out.
Posted 10/11/2016 5:47 PM (GMT 0)
slow and steady wins the race.
Posted 10/12/2016 3:41 AM (GMT 0)
I do not see any harm in using a 4 wheeled walker (or rollator, as you are using the word in reference).

The advantage of the 4-wheeled walkers (as compared to the 2 wheeled walkers) is that the 4 wheeled walker allows you to closely approximate a normal cadence with walking. The wheels pivot, also adding to a normalcy of change of direction when walking.

I agree whole heartedly with Susie that keeping active within one's abilities is imperative. Lessened physical activity lends to muscle weakness and joint stiffness, that can add to one's physical woes.

You can go to E-Bay and find a used 4 wheeled walker. The price points of new walkers is lowering as companies are now making a wider range of 4 wheeled walkers - meeting the needs of an aging population.

Best wishes in your efforts in finding a general practitioner. Take sufficient time to find a primary care provider that is a good "fit" for you, someone that you feel has a valued interest in your care. I consider my primary care provider as the most pivotal of the providers that I see. My primary care provider is the provider that is consistently there for me, more so than the specialist providers. Take the time to find a PCP that you feel comfortable with.
- Karen -
Posted 10/12/2016 2:01 PM (GMT 0)
I use a 4 wheeled walker for balance, it has a foldable chair attached to it and brakes. It helps a lot more than a standard wheelchair and it's much lighter than a wheelchair. My only complaint is the one I have is very wide. I was obese when I started my pain journey now that I've lost a lot of weight I'm in the process of getting a thinner one that will fit threw doors better.
I personally think that's the least damage causing and you can still be active and have a seat when needed.
Jenn
Posted 10/12/2016 10:19 PM (GMT 0)
Hi dashestodashes, you know there is nothing wrong with using any device that can help you with your daily living tasks. You mentioned you had some balance problems, that is my main problem too, because of my back I lean forward and some what to the right, so I use a cane to help me with the balance. It is a very cheap tool to use, I got one a couple of years ago, at a local chain store that looked like a homemade knobby stick for only $9.99! I took it home and sanded it a bit and stained it and put on a good coat of varnish, and I use it every day! I also have found it handy when shopping in a store, and finding the item I want to far back on the shelf to reach, but not for the hook on my cane! LOL It has proved to be a very handy tool in a lot of situations! It is great to use when sitting down and needing something to push against to get back up! (when sitting in the pew at church, I always sit at the end of the pew, and I use my cane to help me get up and down during the mass) I have found it to be a very handy device! Anyway whether it be an extra long shoe horn to help put on your shoes, or using slip over handles to make eating utensils easier to use. There are allot of devices available to help make every day task of living allot more pleasant to do!

Allot of these devices will help you remain active and just makes doing allot of things easier and less painful! My advice is to check them out! And don't be afraid to use them! I look at using my cane as just another device that helps me! If there is anyone you know that has a walker or cane or any device that might help you, maybe you could borrow it for a short time to see if it works for you instead of buying it first? Just a thought??

I wish you well and hope everything works out for you!

White Beard
Posted 10/21/2016 9:56 PM (GMT 0)
I have an Service Dog I use for my balance. I have RA and nerve damage in my hands and it is difficult for me to use a cane or walker.

It is extremely important to be diagnoised by a doctor.
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