Hi Brian..and also..Bubbles! Have just read your note about the 'ten minutes it takes to get downstairs Brian'...after resting and/or sitting awhile...and your total agreement Bubbles! Just wanted to add that I also have the same problem...due to the knees...and general stiffness when I first get up in the A.M., or, after sitting for a little longer than I should....Thought you might like to try my "Method" of handling the stairs 'problem'....which my Mom 'found out' did the trick..and so of course...like mother like daughter!....Anyway, give it a go!.... Turn around at the top of the stairs...hold on to the bannister/railing, bend a little forward to be able to touch the stairs with your other hand, and thus go down the stairs..one at a time!...in the backward position....It is very much easier on the knees and ankles...no 'jolting'...and also gives a more 'secure' feeling of not falling.... Oh yes, I count each stair as I go...to be sure I don't miss the last one...and perhaps have a bit of a fall..or..twist of the ankle.... Hope it works for each of you as well as it does for me! Frances __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Everything you'll ever need on one web page from News and Sport to Email and Music Charts http://uk.my.yahoo.com