The activity is defined as "walking on level ground with a walking stick or any other aid which would normally be used". There are seven descriptors for this activity, the numbers in brackets indicate the amount of points that apply for each:
This activity and walking up and down stairs should be counted as one, if claimants score on both then the highest score will be taken. Both scores cannot be added together.
The IB handbook for doctors makes the point that those who rely on a wheelchair or who can only swing through on crutches fall within the first descriptor and thus score 15 points.
The handook notes that walking may be restricted by limited exercise tolerance and may be affected by disturbances of balance
When ascertaining walking distances, doctors are instructed to only consider the point at which the claimant can go no further because of substantial pain, discomfort, or distress.
The claimant's ability in relation to the following should be considered:
Doctors are asked to bear in mind that "a person who can easily manage around the house and garden is unlkiely to be limited to walking less than 200 metres; a person who can walk around a shopping centre/supermarket is unlikerly to be limited to walking less than 800 metres.
