Aibu to use a walking stick...

[FusionEsque]

I've recently started using a walking stick due to bad joints in my knees. The thing is, I'm a guy in my early 30s and I'm constantly questioned about it.

Why I need it, what I've done to hurt myself, why I don't need it all the time etc. It feels like I'm constantly got people staring at me. I get this is probably partly because I feel self conscious about using it but sometimes it makes me want to struggle without it.

I guess my question is: if you saw a young man with a walking stick, would you judge him?

No of course not, its hardly a fashion accessory hope your condition improves

Of course I wouldn't judge! And it doesn't matter the reason - if a stick helps, then absolutely make use of one. (Not that you don't have a perfectly "legitimate" reason to use one).

If I'm being completely honest, a younger man with a stick would pique my curiosity, and I might nosily wonder why he needed one in my head, but I wouldn't dream of asking if it didn't come up in conversation! And I definitely wouldn't judge. Tbh it really wouldn't take up much head space at all.

Yanbu at all. You need to put your health first and please keep using the stick if you need it. Those that pass judgment or stare are just ignorant and it says a lot more about them. Sending you lots of good wishes

I have rheumatoid arthritis and I get questioned a lot about my stick. But in my case it does beat being shouted at for sitting in one of the seats for disabled people on the bus or train. Since my joints have got bad it has really opened my eyes to how young people with invisible disabilities are treated

I've got a stick, I'm early 40s and have arthritis and fibro, it helps me feel more balanced. Sod what anyone thinks 👍

No. But if I knew you I would probably be making sure that you were seeking / getting medical attention! I find it disturbing how many young men can't summon up the courage to get the help they need because they can't admit weakness or talk to a doctor!

Yanbu. I find that happens when ds (aged 12) is in his wheelchair. People have followed us round the supermarket asking questions before and he really hated it.

I use a walking pole which has a slight spring in it which is easier on the wrists. I don’t think anyone cares much but it does help make people aware that I’m more fragile than others.

its hardly a fashion accessory
PS - just because it is necessary doesn't mean it can't be a fashion accessory. There are some really stylish walking stick out there. Nobody blinks twice at stylish spectacles, so why not have a walking stick or two that compliment your style / personality. I do!

I would assume you were using a walking stick because you need it. Although to be honest I would be too busy worried about my kids and being unhappy with my own appearance to notice you.

My friend uses a hiking pole instead of a walking stick. Same stabilising outcome, but fewer questions from nosey parkers.

You’ll get used to it. Try not to let the rude ignorant people who ask you questions bother you. Sadly the judgment of an idiotic minority seems to be an inevitable consequence of almost any disability, but the vast majority of people quite rightly will just ignore it (or offer you a seat on public transport).

I do, well I use a walking pole as in my mind it looks a whole lot better than a walking stick. And like a pp said, it has a spring in it which is kinder on your wrists

And yes, people dont question a walking pole like they do when I use my crutches

I'd likely assume you'd had a knee replacement or broken leg and were recovering. I'm early 40's with osteo arthritis and wear a knee brace- which is obvious in shorts/skirts etc. I'd like a stick to just stop people getting to close!

If you had on a huge velour hat and matching velour outfit in a ghastly colour, AND had a stick, I'd assume you were going to a fancy dress as a pimp and have a laugh. Otherwise, no, I certainly wouldn't judge!

@Bluetonic41 well a lot of men do use them as fashion accessories. You can get some gorgeous ones.