Walking sticks? Blue Badge

[HarryM1BYT]

I have been just been assessed and approved for a blue badge. During the assessment process I was asked if I use a walking stick, I answered no, because I didn't think one would really help my walking ability - or would it?


My most regular issue seems to be my BP diving when I walk and the resultant dizziness. I have to stop and find somewhere to sit, or lean on something until I recover. Then I suffer from claudication, where my blood supply to my legs simply cannot keep up with the need in my legs. I also suffer with my hip joints stiffening, or seizing to the point where it becomes a fight to move my legs.



My reading up on the subject, suggests a stick can help, where there is a problem with one side. I suffer on both sides, so might a stick help or not?


I put in the application for the BB with no real expectation of one being granted. I could find no detailed criteria for how bad you need to be. The suggestions were that I might need to lay it on a bit thick, but I'm no actor - I aware of some who have spent their lives acting.


It was just a matter of completing a paper or online application form, then waiting for an assessment appointment to come through, giving them permission to check your medical and other records. The actual assessment was a quick chat to explain the problems you were having getting around and how a BB would help.



I explained I could get around the house without any issues, that I could usually get to the bus stop 100 yards away without issues, but (for example) the supermarket just a quarter mile away I really struggle to walk to and from there. Instead I wait for and take two different buses.


For the physical assessment, I warned the assessor I would easily out pace her for a short distance. I did, until I went slightly dizzy twice on the short course and had to slow down



Assessment on the 8th last Monday, the 'granted letter' dated 9th arrived last Saturday. All much slicker and more straight forward than I expected.



My surgery's Patient Record suggests that no applications have been made to check my record. I doubt they would be able to check with my doctor in such a short time via the phone..