Time for a Cane or Walking Stick?
If you are thinking of using a walking stick or cane, it's important to remember not to rely on it TOO much. If you rely on your walker or cane, you will end up learning a muscle firing pattern that favors your obliques and shoulder muscles rather than your hip and leg muscles. This new firing pattern will make you RELY on your assistive device. If you want to maintain your mobility, use the cane, walker, or walking stick only as much as you REALLY need to AND make sure you focus on strengthening your legs and hips so you can maintain your physical independence.