Fear of going down steps

I am exactly the same with going down, especially strange staircases. I just hold on for grim death, sometimes two-handed! And spiral staircases are a big no. I blame it on dreams where I step off the top step and then fall; luckily I wake up before I reach the bottom!

I went to physio for a dodgy hip recently. To my surprise, she gave me a walking stick, adjusted for me, as she said it would improve my walking ability.

I feel old and don't like using it but it certainly helps me feel much more confident walking on uneven areas etc. Much better than falling and breaking something.

You need a proper strong one with correct handle and base. You could always possibly self refer to your local NHS Physio www.nhs.uk/conditions/physiotherapy/accessing/

falling going down is much more risky than going up.
so it's good to take measures to reduce the risk.

Mazgg I'm the same but going up is just as bad for me. What does help me is to use a stick or crutch which helps my balance so that I feel more stable.

go with someone and have them go ahead of you and hang on to them.
this is your survival instinct, so respect it. don't take any chances.
good luck.
ever used a stick, maybe walking pole, for stability ?