White, an outdoor gear salesperson, sports high-tech models with shock absorbers to prevent wrist jarring on descents. And when you are going uphill, they take the stress off your back. Grosse gives the sticks high marks for balance and comfort. But they're not for everyone. But he rarely uses them.
Studies show sticks can reduce strain on hips, knees and ankles.
But they're not risk-free. Those with shoulder or rotator cuff injuries and people predisposed to repetitive stress injuries might also want to stay stick-free, he says. News Jobs AP Shopping Archives Entertain.