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I just came across this page while looking for advise on how to best use my new trekking poles.
Forgive me if you will, there's a story...
I was initially Dx way back in 1998 at the age of 20 with a few pretty severe bouts of weakness and optic issues. It took about 2 years of aggressive therapy *steroids etc, but I returned to 90% mobility and over the last two decades have stayed close to that with the obligatory relapses and scares we all endure from time to time.
Unfortunately, the numbness, foot drop and fatigue have been getting worse bit by bit. So instead of continually doing less hiking and exploring (the trend the last few years) I decided to admit that at 40, I was getting older and should get a hiking stick. a trip to REI found a pair of Black Diamond Trail Back Trekking Poles in my possession, not a day too soon.
For the last 2 or three years my endurance has shrunk from 3 miles to under 1 mile, but last a couple weekends ago I managed to eek out over two miles before the heavy foot slap became too obvious and finished the three miles in OK form. I was sure that this was from having a third point of contact with the ground.
Thte following weekend we went on another less strenous walk through a local a forest area and I forgot *didnt want* the pole. After 3/4 mile I knew this was a mistake as I started having foot slap so fast. I thought that It would net be so bad since I've been going to the gym regularly for a short while now... I was wrong. I now have one pole in each car so I cant forget them.
I will admit that my triceps are very tired from constantly holding my balance with my arms, but its worth it.
From rock climbing and looong hikes/backpacking at 20 to meds, short hikes, and kayaking at 40, the journey must continue. If this must include a walking stick, that's OK with me.
Jim
Forgive me if you will, there's a story...
I was initially Dx way back in 1998 at the age of 20 with a few pretty severe bouts of weakness and optic issues. It took about 2 years of aggressive therapy *steroids etc, but I returned to 90% mobility and over the last two decades have stayed close to that with the obligatory relapses and scares we all endure from time to time.
Unfortunately, the numbness, foot drop and fatigue have been getting worse bit by bit. So instead of continually doing less hiking and exploring (the trend the last few years) I decided to admit that at 40, I was getting older and should get a hiking stick. a trip to REI found a pair of Black Diamond Trail Back Trekking Poles in my possession, not a day too soon.
For the last 2 or three years my endurance has shrunk from 3 miles to under 1 mile, but last a couple weekends ago I managed to eek out over two miles before the heavy foot slap became too obvious and finished the three miles in OK form. I was sure that this was from having a third point of contact with the ground.
Thte following weekend we went on another less strenous walk through a local a forest area and I forgot *didnt want* the pole. After 3/4 mile I knew this was a mistake as I started having foot slap so fast. I thought that It would net be so bad since I've been going to the gym regularly for a short while now... I was wrong. I now have one pole in each car so I cant forget them.
I will admit that my triceps are very tired from constantly holding my balance with my arms, but its worth it.
From rock climbing and looong hikes/backpacking at 20 to meds, short hikes, and kayaking at 40, the journey must continue. If this must include a walking stick, that's OK with me.
Jim
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