Walking Sticks ---Geriatric Subjects

 Walking Sticks ---

Geriatric Subjects

Following is information  from 

Ref  Journal of Physical Therapy Science 2016 Dec:28(12)

3267-3271

Esra Dogru ,Harun Kizilci 

Nilay comuk Balci

Nilufer Cetisli Korkmaz 

Ozden Canbay and

Nihan Katayifci

  This study aimed to evaluate the suitability of walking stik 

and it's effects

on balance in the elderly .

          39 elderly subjects aged between 65-95years mean age

76'15± 8.35 years

Conclusion : study demonstrated that elderly generally decide

 using walking stick by themselves and chose the appropriate

material ,which improves their balance .

       External support is needed to increase the sensory input

and psychological support in physical disabilities while walking.

The elderly start using a walking stick because of balance and postural disorders and to prevent falling because of these disorders.

 A  walking stick is the most prefered 

walking aid because it is easy to use and

accepted by the society.

 The materials of the walking sticks were Plastic  ,wood

Or metal .

There was no significant difference between materials of the

Walking sticks .

The materials of their walking sticks were plastic 5.1%

Wood 69.2%

Metal 25.6%

Decision of using a walking stick

Consultations with health professionals 20.5%

Self decision 79.5

  

BBS (Berg Balance Scale) score

Without walking stick.     X±SD 36.1+-17

With walking stick x± SD 47+-13.1

P< 0.05

Significant

Conclusion :BBS score 

Obtained while using the walking stick were significantly higher than 

That without walking stick (P< 0.05)

Walking disturbs  the stability of the body and adaptation is

Required according to alterations in the gravity line .

Gait disturbances generally start from age of 60years

But more significant changes are observed in the 

75-80 Years age group.

Use of a walking stick improved the balance and

The independence level while risk of fall.

Therefore it has been concluded that using a walking

Stick should be recommended to the elderly individuals

Who have balance disorders and risk of falling.

  Consult your doctor while using walking stick