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Full History - 2021 - 03 - 01 - ID#lva55s
4
From Cane to Dog, how long did it take? (self.Blind)
submitted by bigmiracle
Hi everyone
I'm about 4 weeks into publicly using my cane. It's been an ongoing experience as everyday something new happens. Mostly amazing support from people.
I'm already feeling burnout in my wrist from the cane. Dealt with arthritis before. I just don't see myself swiping left forever. Is the dog a good alternative? How long did you wait between cane and dog to switch? What are the right and less okay reasons to switch to a dog?
Thank you and big hugs to everyone here.
C
Iamheno 5 points 2y ago
1. Try a lighter weight cane? I love the NFB telescoping designs, very light and nimble. Hate the clunky AmbuTech.
2. Waitlist on dogs, from approval, is currently 18-24 months with most US agencies I’ve heard.
3. if you’re concerned about arthritis a dog may not be a good option either. I’ve had mine for 2 years on May 26th. I currently have a wicked case of tendinitis my elbow, and feel what my be some arthritis in my wrist on my left/guide arm.

Check with your O&M specialist they’ll be able to give you the best options!
bigmiracle [OP] 5 points 2y ago
Tysm for the reply, blessings!!
ThreeTreesXXII 2 points 2y ago
I'll admit, I don't know much about dogs. I don't have one. But there are cane tips which roll on the ground, which makes it way easier for some people to use. They're like little wheels. So that way, it wouldn't be as big a strain on your hands.
bigmiracle [OP] 2 points 2y ago
Ty my friend, I'm currently using the ambutech Ball roller, it's great, still gets stuck on cracks but less, wearing down fast, and still lots of. work for my forearm and wrist.. i was curious if this same happened to others and if getting the dig was a good solution.. ty
ThreeTreesXXII 5 points 2y ago
Do keep in mind, getting a dog can take a while. And from what I've heard, they would prefer that you're good at using the cane beforehand.
siriuslylupin6 1 points 2y ago
You’re either using the cane wrong or something. I’ve used a cane for 23 of my 28 years and never had issues. Maybe talk to a mobility instructor to get better skills? Used properly you’ll be just fine.

Think aobut dcanes, the ambuitech slim line, or nfb type canes the iowa canes also known as the commander tech canes are excellent. All very light wait canes.
bigmiracle [OP] 1 points 2y ago
Tysm, i will look into those 9ther canes. I believe my stress causes a lot 9f the arthritis and cramping together with new movements of my wrist and forearm. Nonetheless my elbow and wrist are taking all the shock and it stings during the day.
siriuslylupin6 1 points 2y ago
I would also look in to your technique. I also walk all day and everywhere, and never had issues I think it’s a you thing. Maybe you need even more training?
bigmiracle [OP] 1 points 2y ago
For sure could be, I'm fully trained in cane though, just started sweeping by holding the cane more on my right side as opposed to middle so I can square my shoulders better and also avoid jabbing myself in the groin which almost happened a few times
siriuslylupin6 1 points 2y ago
I see I do that and don’t have any issues. But interesting.....
siwy4don 1 points 2y ago
Svarowski canes are light and they're great. You can get a roller tip, so it won't have to leave the ground.
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