How does the writer navigate public stairs despite physical challenges?

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Navigating Public Stairs Amidst Physical Challenges

The writer navigates public stairs with significant difficulty due to leg swelling, stiffness, and a deep-seated fear of falling. While elevators are the preferred mode of transport, the writer is sometimes forced to use stairs when elevators are inaccessible or too distant, leading to a challenging and anxiety-inducing experience.
Morning and Evening Stiffness and Swelling

On certain days, particularly in the early morning or late evening, the writer's legs become either stiff or swollen, or both. This physical discomfort makes the act of descending stairs particularly arduous. The severity of this challenge is highlighted by the writer's comparison of stair difficulties in Taipei to the more torturous, long flights encountered in Bangkok.
Fear of Falling and Foot Placement

A long-standing fear of falling down stairs significantly complicates the writer's use of them. The sensation of the ankle brushing against the back of a stair, which might otherwise indicate secure footing, triggers a recoil and revulsion. This is compounded by the fact that the writer wears a size 8 shoe, meaning most stairs offer little extra room, making the foot's placement precarious.
Escalator Grooves as a Specific Hazard

Beyond standard staircases, the grooves of escalators are identified as a particularly challenging obstacle. This specific detail points to the nuanced nature of the writer's mobility issues, where even seemingly minor design elements can pose a significant threat and amplify the existing fear of falling.
Reliance on Elevators and Occasional Necessity of Stairs

The writer's primary strategy for avoiding the distress of stairs is to rely heavily on elevators, referring to them as a "best friend." However, this is not always feasible. When elevators are out of order or inconveniently located, the writer must confront the "torturous journey" of using the stairs, underscoring the limited options available for navigating public spaces.

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How does the writer navigate public stairs despite physical challenges?

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