Have you ever felt unsteady or wondered if there’s a way to make walking easier on days when your body just doesn’t feel as strong?
Realizing that you might need some assistance with walking is a significant step in your MS journey. If you've come to the point where you know a little support could make a difference, there are several options to consider. While a cane is the most straightforward choice, I'd like to introduce another helpful alternative—trekking poles.
At first glance, these poles might seem a bit cumbersome, but they're so much more than walking sticks. They provide the stability and support needed to enhance your confidence and independence while walking.
So, let’s dive in and explore how these simple, adaptable poles can help make walking feel easier and more natural!
Trekking poles are lightweight, adjustable sticks designed to provide balance and stability while walking, particularly on uneven or challenging terrain. Similar to ski poles but used for everyday walking, they often come with hand grips, wrist straps, and different types of tips (like rubber or metal) that can be swapped out based on the surface you’re on.
Trekking poles are popular with the hiking community, but they’re also increasingly used by individuals who need a little extra support when walking, including those with mobility issues.
You can adjust their length to match your height and use them in a way that feels natural to you. With the right technique, trekking poles help people move more freely and confidently.
Trekking poles offer a unique balance of support and freedom, making them a bit different from traditional mobility aids like walkers or canes. While walkers provide a stable frame around you and canes offer single-sided support, trekking poles allow for a natural, rhythmic stride that doesn’t restrict movement.
With two poles, you have support on both sides of your body, which can help balance without feeling like you’re leaning too heavily on one side. Trekking poles also allow you to walk with a more upright posture, reducing strain on your back and shoulders. They’re lightweight and adjustable, so they can be easily carried or adjusted to different heights and terrains.
For people with MS or similar conditions, trekking poles are a great option if you want stability without the bulk of a walker or the single-sided focus of a cane. They’re versatile, helping you stay active and independent while moving naturally.
For individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS), walking can sometimes feel unsteady or tiring due to symptoms like muscle weakness, balance issues, or spasticity. Trekking poles can provide valuable support, helping to reduce strain and improve balance.
When used correctly, they help people maintain a natural stride, giving extra stability by widening the “base” of support. This is especially helpful on days when MS symptoms are more noticeable, making you feel safer and more confident with each step.
Additionally, using trekking poles can ease joint stress and make it easier to maintain an active lifestyle, which is beneficial for physical health and mental well-being. Whether you use one or two poles, they’re a versatile tool to help you stay active and reduce the risk of falls, so you can keep moving comfortably and confidently.
The biggest factor to consider when beginning to use trekking poles is ensuring they are set at the correct height for your body. To do this correctly, here are a few easy steps to follow:
Most trekking poles come in a compact, folded size, so the first step is adjusting them to your ideal height. Most poles have two adjustable segments with markings, allowing you to loosen and extend each section. Here’s a breakdown of the two common height options:
Once you’ve selected your preferred height, make sure both poles match. Check the numerical markers on each pole to ensure they’re adjusted to the same length, as this will help with balance and comfort.
Which Base Should I Use?
Trekking poles come with different base options suited for various terrains and conditions:
While trekking poles may feel intuitive, it does take a little bit of time to get used to putting body weight on a foreign object. Most importantly, this is a new movement your hands and arms are not typically used to. Here is what I recommend practicing to get your body used to using trekking poles:
When it comes to walking with trekking poles, there are a few methods I recommend trying out. Your body is unique, and so are your symptoms of MS, so not every option will feel comfortable with your stride and overall movement. Be patient and practice, but also know it’s okay to try a new method if the first one doesn’t feel the most comfortable.
This method supports a natural walking rhythm without breaking stride. Here’s how it works:
If you feel unsteady after practicing with the first method, you can try a slower method:
For those using the hip-height method, poles are typically placed slightly behind you, allowing you to push off for a stronger forward momentum. This technique is effective for faster walking and works well for people who want a bit more support without restricting their stride.
Trekking poles are a valuable tool for those experiencing MS, but strengthening exercises are essential for improving your overall mobility and stability. Think of trekking poles as an assistant—helpful, but not a substitute for the strength and balance that come from regular movement and muscle-building exercises.
If you’re looking to improve your walking, regardless of if you’re using trekking poles, a walker, or a cane, I HIGHLY recommend checking out my Total Core Program! Together, we will work through exercises that will help you feel stronger, balanced, and more independent. After all, a strong core is essential to walking with confidence.
Do you have any further questions on how trekking poles (or mobility aides in general) can help you walk with confidence? Please feel free to DM me on Instagram @doctor.gretchen.
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Have you ever felt unsteady or wondered if there’s a way to make walking easier on days when your body just doesn’t feel as strong? Trekking poles for MS can be the perfect solution! Check out how how these simple, adaptable poles can help make walking feel easier and more natural here.
Dr. Gretchen Hawley's The MSing Link offers a comprehensive guide to taking control of your MS symptoms and improving your mobility through MS-specific exercises and strategies.
6000+ copies sold in over 13 countries!
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As a physical therapist & Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist, I have spent the last 10 years teaching people with MS how to feel more confident & empowered through MS-specific exercises and strategies.
If you want support and encouragement, plus a healthy dose of tough love, come follow me on Instagram (@doctor.gretchen) or on YouTube @DoctorGretchenHawley. It's where I share daily tips, tricks, and information about new offers — plus, you’re bound to feel more empowered, hopeful, & motivated after watching each post and video!
Questions? Email me at Hello@DoctorGretchenHawley.com