I have severe scoliosis and these poles are so comfortable and supportive - they really help me keep moving! I have used regular trekking poles in the past, but I would get hand fatigue and sometimes even numbness in my hands. I have used a cane in the past, but I would get both hand and shoulder pain with a cane. The York Nordic Motivator poles have solved both of these issues. I highly recommend them. I also strongly recommend getting a FlexTip base with a spring as for the added shock absorption and a longer life for the tips - the typical rubber tips don't last long if you walk a lot. Thank you for developing these poles!