TBI & Walking

After my stroke I needed a walker for a short while, then I graduated to a large-base quad cane.

Then I used a single-point cane for about a year. Since then (about four years now, I guess) I use a small-base quad cane. I've found that the best thing about it is that it stands on its own; I don't have to lean it on something when I'm not using it.

For the record, at home I don't need a cane at all; I walk pretty well. But when I'm outside, I use the cane to help my sense of security when people are moving around me or there are changes in elevation.

My first unaided steps, a couple of months after the stroke:

I no longer needed a cane about 4 weeks after my discharge from a nursing home. Had craniotomy 30 day hospitalization 3 weeks in nursing home then discharge to my apt.

Truly inspirational! So glad for you.

@tsueb I have PCS. I used Nordic Walking Sticks (hiking sticks) to go pretty much everywhere - even in the house. They REALLY helped me out! Over 3 years later, I don't need them most of the time but when I'm going anywhere with uneven terrain, I still use them.

Balance is a small problem, so I walk with my eyes looking at everything down, right, left, even up. That way nothing I walk around and walk over will surprise me. I just use my eyes instead of a cane or walking sticks