ME/CFS - cane?

[theoldhasgone]

I have ME/CFS and am having a rough time at the moment. Walking is particularly awful and I'm walking very very slowly. This is new for me - GP says after various tests that it is almost certainly not a new disease so I just have to pace myself and rest up.

I'm just wondering if a cane would help or if it would just be a PITA. I'm not having problems balancing or pain, so not sure whether a cane would actually be any help. Any experience?

Just wanted to say hi. I also have ME/CFS.

No experience with walking sticks. I suppose it might give you added confidence but it doesn't particularly sound like you need it from what you say.

I have ME but am in remission or however you want to put it - haven’t had serious symptoms for a few years. When I did, I had a folding cane for when I needed it. Partly it was a mobility aid and partly it signified to others that I needed gentler treatment than someone my age normally might. I found people offering me seats when I’d have been embarrassed to ask. So yes, it was a useful tool to help when I felt too painful or weak to move easily, but it was also helpful in making an invisible disability more visible. You can get some dead cheap and colourful folding ones off Amazon.

I have FMS and getting a folding walking stick gave me back my life! It takes the pressure off my hips, means I have less pain, and allows me to do so much more these days.

You can get a folding cane that fits inside a medium sized handbag so its there if you need it. I don't need a cane usually for walking but I find it incredibly helpful as a support if I am standing around or in a long queue.

Thank you all for sharing. Hope your holidays haven't been too tiring and you have a few spare spoons.