By Gill Stewart at
The Escape Pain programme delivered by the Cardiff and Vale University Health board helps people to manage the pain caused by long term Arthritic conditions. The team is made up of Physiotherapists and exercise referral practitioners who also train and empower their participants to help others.
The WALX education team worked with them to create a project where those managing pain via being physically Active using walking poles, could inspire their peers to do likewise.
Initial intervention and screening is provided by the specialists whilst the regular walks using WALX Xcelerator poles for balance and whole body engagement, are led by participants who have been taught how to do so safely.
Walking Poles can help people to remain active by reducing the pressure on hips and knees and the strapless design is comfortable for those with wrist pain or difficulty with gripping. Walking more and maintaining good posture can help people to manage pain and maintain a healthy weight.