HI Parna, I have started using a cane here in NewZealand we call it a walking stick but it seems that I walk a little better not using the walking stick. It is very useful as a safety device or helping me with curbs or uneven survaces,So, not much help to you but just keep up exercises and try and keep safeusing whatever you feel comfortable with.By the way my walking stick is folding which is useful.
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Your reply definitely helps.I am still walking without help. Exercise is one of the few things I really enjoy - so I’ll keep doing it. As for cane/ walker i have to see. Again, thanks for responding.
Just bouncing off ideas of you guys. I understand that the stationary cycle (some aerobics) followed by strength training seems to arrest progression of ataxia.
I am just wondering so just walking is not any good?
I’ve read in some articles that ataxians cannot meaningfully get an aerobic workout ( hence no BDNF) out of walking, hence practicing walking doesn’t help meaningfully — what’re your thoughts/experiences on that.
Have a nice day!
First of all, there is no current cure for Ataxia. The best you can currently do is try to control it. And that’s by exercising. That means working your muscles and keeping them functioning along with your joints.
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Best of luck using them.
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A friend diagnosed with ataxia…found walking poles useful.
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I’ll let you guys know how the pole works for me after it arrives.
I loved walking Sticks. One and later two. But if your ataxia is progressing you come to a point where things that work stop working eventually.
I went from 1stick, 2sticks, 3 wheels, 4 wheels. Get good equipment, but not too fancy. I hope your walking sticks work for years, but for me eventually it’s time to “graduate” to the next thing.
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I have the walking sticks plus cane - haven’t used any of them meaningfully yet
Let us know how you make out!
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Sorry guys, I’ve been silent for a while!
I have two canes and 2 walking sticks as a prop- but was reluctant to use them.
I had the feeling that I could do so much better in walking etc with some targeted exercise, so I’ve been looking around.
Today I took the first class from this physical instructor who specializes in Karate (earlier I learnt Muay Thai). I have to learn several new things with Karate. I am so impressed after taking the class and think it’s the right thing for me.
Will update you guys periodically!
Regards
Parna.
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This is my feeling about using a crutch. Obviously, if you really need one then there is no alternative! Your body needs the crutch as you require it more and more and becomes dependent upon it. If you can, I think that exercising the body should be the first thing to try. It may not be everyone’s thinking. It’s just my opinion.
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Same feelings here; although I don’t know if I can hold on another 20 years. You’re awesome!
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Very sweet of you to say that