Hello

AmandaJS

Hi I am now here and have had OA for about 7 years in my hands and then both hips and base of my spine. Have recently stared to use a stick to walk any distance and feel upset that at 59 I have had to do this. Would be nice to talk to others going through the same as me.

stickywicket

Amanda, just join in on any thread. We all have arthritis in one form or another. Indeed, some of us have it in more than one form. You are very welcome here. Just join in anywhere.

Ellen

Hello @AmandaJS a warm welcome to the Online Community from me too.

I see from your post that you are feeling too young to be needing to use a stick for your Osteoarthritis in your hips. Many of us feel this way, but after a while it becomes something we don't even think about. I was wondering though whether you have taken advice about the type of stick you are using? I am thinking about the Arthritis in your hands.

This link it an NHS one and mentions getting advice from a physiotherapist. In many areas you can self refer to physiotherapy:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/social-care-and-support-guide/care-services-equipment-and-care-homes/walking-aids-wheelchairs-and-mobility-scooters/

Some of our members use walking poles too.

This is a very old 'read only' thread which might help you feel less alone in needing to use a walking aid:

https://community.versusarthritis.org/discussion/40635/not-feeling-ok-about-using-walking-sticks-at-the-age-of-25

As @stickywicket says do please join in everyone is very friendly.

Best wishes

Ellen.