[at-l] Knees, age & trekking styx

[David Addleton]

The rebound pain i felt descending stairs (and at its worst, any
descent) receded as I stopped using the hiking styx. Something
strengthened as a result of not using the styx, imho. I only recently
stopped carrying the elastic brace I carried out of concern the pain
might return. I still carry my Lekis, collapsed and upside down in the
side pockets of my pack, thinking I'll need them. Many a hike I
haven't used them at all. When I use them its on difficult or slippery
descents and late in the day when being tired increases the risk of
instability. I feel quite stable and strong early in the day through
much of the afternoon. I suspect I'll use them more in rainy or
sub-freezing temps for added stability. We'll soon see. I'll be 55 at
the end of this year; unemployed after tomorrow. Going hiking afater I
shut down my apartment . . .


>>>I see lots of two pole hikers clicking and clacking along, both poles swinging as if they were four legged instead of two. Rarely do I see a two pole hiker with both poles lashed to the pack (only where steep climbing requires both hands free) and I don't recall ever seeing a two pole hiker just 'carrying' the poles in one or both hands without using them.