As we celebrate Labor Day it got us thinking about walking and whether it can sometimes be considered a labor. Walking, for most people, is a routine activity and not usually categorized as labor unless it's part of a job or involves significant effort (like hiking long distances).
However, if someone is walking under strenuous conditions like horrendous weather or for an extended period, it could feel like laborious work. That said, for some people walking can be a labor because of a physical condition like arthritis, an injury or a chronic condition like Parkinson’s or MS. It is for those folks that we stress the advantages that walking poles can provide.
Walking poles help provide balance and stability while engaging the body’s core, both of which can greatly take pressure off of joints and parts of the body that might be under stress while walking. Other advantages include promoting joint flexibility and muscle movement, thereby reducing stiffness and improving overall mobility. Taken together, pole walking can help take the labor out of otherwise strenuous walking, or at least make it easier to enjoy.
Let’s Get Out There!
Tags
Health Benefits of Walking, Pole Walking for Seniors, Walking Research
Very happy with the crutch although the additional padding provided for the forearm cuff does not stick very well even with using the 3m tape. I used doubles side tape. Hope it works.
I'm 6'5" with big hands and also have RA and some upper back arthritis. First, these poles are an instantly more comfortable for walking than using a cane! It's easy to keep my head and back upright and the stability of the poles is really great. They weight about 5 ounces more than standard poles, and I definitely feel more stable while I'm using them. The push button height adjustment is very easy to use, too. The palm cradle gives an extra level of comfort while in use. I'm absolutely sold on these poles, and if you're over 6'4" and/or have very large hands, you'll need to try these out. You'll be impressed, too.
With EDS I had no idea how badly regular forearm crutches would hurt my wrists and hands. These are all I can use with both knees doing poorly and I’m so happy they exist. Thank you!! The space pattern is awesome taboot.