I was diagnosed 20 years ago, now having more balance and walking problem,
it doesn't seem a cane helps keep me steady enough, I don't like the walker at all, I was thinking about forearm canes, anyone have experience with them.
Also having trouble with shoes that are not comfortable. I need very comfortable cool summer shoes. I have a wide foot and can't seem to find any that I like. I wear SAS most of the time, they are so expensive, now I need summer shoes. Any suggestions for cool shoes I can afford.

Hi poochie,

I have never used 4 arm crutches, sorry When I need something for mobility I like using Trekking Poles. They are helpful for balance and walking is natural. If you have never used them before it will take practice to get the hang of them.

Shoes <sigh> I like Saucony brand, they have wide sizes. I have come to the conclusion uncomfortable shoes isn't about the shoes but about my feet. In general, it doesn't matter what brand/style I wear my feet bother me

hi poochie,

i find that a rollator work well to improve my balance over a cane. i don't use it all the time but after my back surgery i definitely noted an improvement. also, with a rollator you can sit down if you're tired.

if you have medical access maybe your dr can refer you for some PT or OT and they can evaluate your needs and make recommendations.

on the shoe front...aerosoles and maryland square carry wide width shoes.
also, QVC (home shopping) has shoes that come in wide widths.
hope this helps some.

Can't help out on the shoe front, my feet are too narrow and arches too high to find anything that truly fits... But as to the forearm crutches, I have a set that I use when the cane just won't cut it but I don't wanna be stuck in the chair. I find them to be relatively easy to use, and certainly far more comfortable and less awkward than standard crutches.

But I agree with nurse nancy that talking with a doctor, pt or OT would probably be the best place to start, sometimes making the choices ourselves to "improve" our mobility can end up greatly diminishing it. Discover why you may seem more off balance first, and if anything can be done for it, before you begin pulling out the bandaids.