Taking walking sticks on the Camino de Santiago is not essential, but it is highly recommended, especially on those pilgrim routes that face steep, uneven slopes. It is also highly advisable for those people who have delicate knees, as their use helps to reduce impact, in addition to reducing a part of the weight in the backpack, if you carry all your equipment.
Ascents and descents are when trekking poles are most useful. Descending is when most benefits are felt, especially with your knees, they suffer much less. To descend, slightly lengthen the two poles, allowing you to move them one step at a time and keep your body straight. On climbs, they make it easier for you to move yourself forward, especially if you use two poles on the Camino de Santiago.