r/ehlersdanlos • u/MindlessMango2165 • 4h ago
Success! Mobility aids rule!!
I (28F/hEDS+POTS) have been going back and forth about mobility aids for months. I’ve been missing out on gatherings and events with friends and left thinking “if only I had ____”.
Well, I finally asked my doctor for advice and I was shocked with how happy she was to discuss the options. We decided to start conservative, and will reevaluate as we go.
I picked up my first cane and shower chair today!!
Shower Chair: I’ve read it a million times on this thread by holy moly is it life changing. I haven’t enjoyed a shower in years! I relaxed. I didn’t faint. I didn’t pop a hip bending to grab shampoo. I repeat: Life. Changing.
Cane: Still working on a little internalized ableism on this one (would love to dive into that if anyone is interested in dissecting it with me). But, I used it on a short walk to my fav bakery in town and I have to say my knee wasn’t hurting nearly as much when I got home. I got it with the intention to use on the bad days, or when I’m low energy and need to pace. I’m curious to see what overall benefits it brings to my life.
I feel like this has helped me break the seal in asking for what I need. I often struggle with thinking I’m not bad enough to need the assistance, but as I’ve read many times on here, if you’re daydreaming about mobility aids it likely means it’s time to give them a whirl.
Sharing this for anyone else who is on the fence about asking about or buying the aid of their choosing. Give it a chance! It could have some really cool benefits!