Choosing a Walking Aid

Why walking matters with fibromyalgia

Staying active after a fibromyalgia diagnosis helps maintain muscle strength and supports joint mobility. For some people, regular movement can ease certain symptoms over time, though experiences vary widely. Physical activity also helps with mood, sleep and managing a healthy weight, which may reduce strain on already painful muscles and joints.

Walking is often recommended as a starting point for exercise. It costs nothing, requires no special equipment and puts less stress on the body than higher impact activities like running or aerobics. That said, walking is not equally accessible for everyone, and those with severe mobility limitations may need to explore other options with their healthcare team.

Fibromyalgia can make walking more difficult. Pain, muscle weakness, fatigue and balance problems may all affect how steady you feel on your feet. For some people, a walking aid offers the extra support needed to keep moving safely and with confidence.

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When a walking aid might help

Healthcare professionals typically assess the need for a walking aid based on individual circumstances. If you are considering using one regularly, a professional assessment is usually recommended to ensure you choose the right type and use it correctly.

Many people with fibromyalgia notice that stiffness is worse in the morning or after periods of rest. This can make walking feel unsteady until muscles loosen up. A stick or crutch may help during these stiffer periods, even if you manage fine later in the day.

Fear of falling is another common reason to consider support. If you feel anxious about losing your balance, whether at home or outside, a walking aid can restore confidence and make you more likely to stay active rather than avoiding movement altogether.

Some people only need support on bad days or during flare ups. Others find they benefit from using an aid regularly. Working with a physiotherapist or occupational therapist can help you determine what approach suits your situation, and your needs may change over time.

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Types of walking aid

Several options are available, and the right choice depends on how much support you need:

• Walking sticks: suitable for mild balance problems or light support on one side. They are easy to carry and store.
• Crutches: provide more stability than a single stick. Elbow crutches are common in the UK and allow you to distribute weight through your forearms.
• Walking frames and rollators: offer the most support. Rollators have wheels and often include a seat for resting. They work well for longer distances or if fatigue is a major factor.

Consider where you will use your aid most often. Some walking sticks and rollators are better suited to indoor use on smooth floors, while others are designed for outdoor terrain including pavements, gravel or uneven ground. Your healthcare professional can advise on features that match your typical walking environments.

Many people also find that choosing an aid they actually like helps with confidence. Walking aids now come in various colours, patterns and styles, so you may be able to find something that feels more personal.

Your GP, a physiotherapist or an occupational therapist can advise on which type suits your situation. Some NHS trusts loan equipment, though availability varies significantly by region and waiting times differ. You can also buy walking aids from pharmacies and mobility shops. If cost is a concern, charities such as Disability Grants or local community organisations sometimes offer financial support for mobility equipment.

Getting the right fit

A walking aid that is the wrong height or poorly adjusted can cause new problems such as shoulder pain, arm strain or back discomfort. Proper fitting usually involves adjusting the handle height so your elbow stays slightly bent when you hold the aid with your arm relaxed at your side. For frames and rollators, the handgrips should sit at roughly wrist level when you stand upright.

A physiotherapist or occupational therapist can measure you and demonstrate correct technique. Many areas offer NHS community rehabilitation services that include this kind of assessment. Ask your GP surgery for a referral if you need guidance.

It is also worth reassessing your needs periodically. As your condition or activity levels change, you may need to adjust your current aid or consider a different type altogether.

Starting to walk more, with or without an aid, can cause some temporary muscle soreness. This is a common experience when increasing activity levels. However, if pain becomes severe or does not settle, speak to a healthcare professional to check your approach is right for you.

Organisations such as Versus Arthritis and Fibromyalgia Action UK offer further information on staying active and managing symptoms.

The Next Step

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our Flare Up Analyser lets you describe your current flare up and we will help you identify likely triggers and what might ease it. Try it now →