A. Maybe immediately, maybe never. Like everything else surrounding MS, this is a question that is highly individual (and may change on different days or when we are in different moods).
You probably know if you definitely need to get a cane or some other kind of "helper," such as a walker, crutch, scooter or wheelchair.
You probably know if you don't need a cane right now - you don't have any symptoms at the moment that have impacted your balance or leg strength and have really never been too affected by these things.
Then there are lots of people who fall somewhere in the middle. You were fine today, but yesterday your balance was "off." You may have canceled some plans because your foot didn't seem to "work" right. You might still be a little traumatized (and have a residual limp) from a recent relapse that left you unsure of your steadiness.
In the right situation, canes can help us get some confidence and boost our "mobility efficiency." If you think you might benefit from a cane, talk to your doctor and get a referral to a physical therapist, who can help you select the right cane and use it well.
Read the full article: Q. When Should I Get a Cane if I Have Multiple Sclerosis?
I have had MS for 12 years. I have a cane, and do not like it. It is sometimes a hinderance. I rarely use it. If you do need the aide, do it definitely.
I was diagnosed about three years ago – I use my cane regularly. Personally, I find a cane infinitely less a hindrance than was the wheelchair I spent several weeks needing. I actually now own a few different canes (Including wooden, and one I collect stickers to decorate it with
) I have met people who say they rarely or never need any kind of walking assistance, whereas I have since very nearly the beginning.
The cane is a huge “mental” obstacle that I must now overcome. There are days I need one, but I am too embarrassed to bring it out. Anyone silly like me?
Check out your local chain drug store for a rack near the pharmacy for ‘designer’ canes. All canes are NOT created equal. When I got my attractve floral cane (they have very masculine colors too) with the comfy spnge cushion grip, non slip, with a hanging handle, I got so many compliments on the cane. I was using it to walk faster and more steadily, and I wondered why on earth I’s put off buying one so long. It’s so easy to adjust to the hight of the hand, and I feel more empowered using it. Safer and more secure outside. I’m still fine inside, but I have a tiny apt. Invest the $20 in a spiffy looking cane, and you can keep it in the closet for emergencies, or give it for Christmas. ( Can I say CVS is the chain I got mine at?)
I was diagnosed 5 years ago, after several years of feeling ‘not right’. I have three canes, they are in BEAUTIFUL shape! They stay near the door, anticipating their use. I also have a mental block about declaring myself a person less-than-independent. I ambulate just fine…some days are better than others.
Now, if only I can keep my left foot from dropping…
All I can say to those that are nervous or embarrassed is just do it! One of the many reasons I use mine is so people know to give me a wider berth than people tend to give each other. I tend to need more room to walk than other people (because my balance isn’t great etc) so it let’s people know that…and know that I’m not drunk or something! I am 36 years old so people kind of give me looks of confusion sometimes but that’s just fine. Using a cane doesn’t signify a lack of independence in anyone’s mind but your own. Be happy and proud that you are up and out on the days that you can be…
I was diagnosed about 3 years ago. I have been doing pretty well accepting the MS and the progression, but when one of the last Doctors told me I needed an AFO as well as a cane, I felt like being hit with a hammer. As many have said it is a mental thing. There are some days I need to give in. The AFO is helping to steady my gait by helping with my drop foot. The cane is still not too far away though.
I fought using anything for a long time. First it was cane, then a walker which I use regularly. Next came the wheelchair, and finally a scooter, which I use for all shopping trips. I can’t believe how much using the scooter has freed me. It helps me conserve my energy so that I am able to do the things I need to do at home. The hardest part of using any of these things was going out in public, but once you can get past it, it is marvelously freeing.
My day came not to long ago when I knew I needed a cane but didn’t “want” it. I bawled in the Walgreens cane aisle. I walked out with matching pink roses canes. My compromise at the time over a walker. Now I have dropped down to just one cane and I am happier for it. Maybe one day I wont need it all the time maybe I will -I think it’s all just about mental acceptance.
I like everyone agonized over using a cane. I was diagnosed in 2008 and at age 56 thought I didn’t want to be the “person with a cane” Now I don’t go anywhere including across the room without it. It does help..period. It helps take a little of the weight off my legs and assists in my having balance. I think it is a great thing to let others known that, yes you do need a little room or do have some issue with walking or standing or sitting for that matter, like in a restaurant. Why not let others know that you need a little help. It’s nothing to be ashamed of. My much older in-laws both need a cane and will not use one due to their ego. My father-in-law has fallen once and my mother-in-law hobbles badly. I can’t get either one to use a cane and they are in their 80’s Be smart, use the help a cane provides. Also great for getting socks out from under the bed
I carried a cane for a while, then stopped using it. I started noticing that I was falling a lot, so started carrying it again. It keeps me from falling! A lot of people do not know how to use it properly. A lot of my friends will ask me where my cane is — it is right in front of them! If you use it correctly, it is not always noticed!
i tried a cane and it got tangled up in my feet and hurt my arthritic hand, so i went tooking for a hiking pole at the athletic store and ended up with a staff ( think Lord of the Rings) it takes the pressure off leaning on my hand while still helping my balance. the only problen is that it is in the way a lot. at a restraunt i usually lean it up against a wall at the entrance or by the table, or have the server take and bring it back when i’m done. but i’m abou whatever keeps me active.