Welcome to Discussions

my consultant has insisted that i use my wheelchair when ever i leave the house but has recomended that i use two sticks in the house. i've started to feel unsteady using the sticks and would feel better using in my chair. i know the doctors are only tring to help but they don't seem to understand how i feel. has any one else had this sort of problem?

Yes.....I'm sure when Chris........who just went through the same thing .........see's this.....he'll respond immediately............now......you both might not share the same diagnosis.......which is why your Dr. wants you to use the canes in the house........but Chris followed their advice and fell a few times.........which is why they are now advising he use the chair at all times........in and out of the house.............I'll P.M. him now to alert him to your post..........best of luck with your situation........peace and love........Norma

HI BRAIN , I WAS DOING THE CRUTCHES INSIDE AND THE CHAIR FOR OUTSIDE , BUT AFTER MANY FALLS IN THE HOUSE I MADE MY OWN DECISION TO USE THE CHAIR FULL TIME AND PUT MY SAFETY FIRST , I LOVE MY DOCTOR TO BITS BUT I DO FEEL I KNOW WHATS BEST FOR ME !  PLEASE BE SAFE !!!!!!!! BEST WISHES RAINEY XO   

 I say whatever makes you the most comfortable Brian

Hi Brian!

I suppose they are hoping that you will maintain some ability to walk with regular practice but maybe it would be safer and better for you to commit to some basic exercises to keep your legs up to par. It's totally up to you how you'd like to get around your life...If you don't feel comfortable walking with the sticks (which I wouldn't either!) then I say ditch em and use your chair. People advise against wheelchairs for a number of reasons but for some walking becomes so difficult that it's ridiculous to force yourself to use so much energy/effort/anxiety/etc. when the wheelchair is a better option for you to LIVE life!

 I had that problum also,fell alot. After P.T. at home They gave me a Rollator walker. It's great has a seat & brakes. I can go all over the house,& feel very secure.

But 1foot out the door, Wheelchair or my scooter.

 Nona Judy

 

Hi Brian.  This is Chris, the guy Norma was talking about.  I found your message just now and HAD to reply.  I started walking with one cane outside and nothing indoors except supporting myself with furniture.  Things deterioated after about 6 weeks and i had a fall indoors.  I spent a night in hospital and they gave me two crutches, a kitchen trolley and support bars in the bathroom (i felt at this stage i was on a downward slope!).  I was being told by all medical professionals and friends to keep your mobility and although i had got a wheelchair for use outside by this stage i was told walk and stay mobile as much as possible.

In one month i had 3 falls indoors where my legs and knee's just gave way.  Another trip to the hospital (just over a week ago) and i was told to use the wheelchair 100% of the time and accept i may never walk again.  Not try walking at all and stay safe.  I go for another clinical assessment and physio assessment next wednesday and we will see what happens form there. Even when i transfer to the bed or toilet now i feel at risk so please don't take unnecessary chances.

Very scary and alot to take in and accept.  My advice is to try and not fall as it could cause additional damage to what you already have.  Although hard to accept i do feel safer in my own home now in a chair and carer's in each morning and night.  Neither of us know what the future holds but we can just try and do the best for now. If you have seen a Physio or are down to see one they will give you exercises to do to try and keep you moving to an extent and blood circulation going round but accept you won't be running the marathon or in the olympics!

Good luck and if u want to chat more, feel free.

Take care Chris

Hey Brian-I think what ever faciliates getting around the house and outdoors in the safest and most comfortable manner is the way to go. Always look out for your safety!

 

Stay Strong

Vinny