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I would like to gently push back and note that almost everyone benefits from hiking poles, a truth recognized across history, and that people using them at younger ages can help maintain mobility longer They’re like sunblock: necessary for some bc of specific issues; useful for most, generally.

I’m glad they helped you, but also more people should use them earlier and there should be less stigma for using them, and no need to justify them with specific medical conditions.

yes hiking poles are for everyone, they activate more of your muscles meaning you take some of the work off your legs and build muscle in places you wouldnt without poles, they also lessen the load on your feet

They greatly reduce the incidence of lower body torque injuries is the biggest reason. There are a bunch of other reasons, but most of those have a low but persistent effect size, eg people burn more calories with them but perceive the hike as easier, so go further & hike more challenging terrain