[Meng]

I've always paddled straight shaft and do actually like straight, but have recently develloped slight (i hope) shoulder problems from over-use.

I know manufacturers claim that bentshafts alleviate wrist stress which compliments shoulder health, but not sure if its marketing or reality. Any feedback in this department would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Chris.

 

[Geezer]

Using a bent shaft since 2001 and after I started using it, my shoulder/wrist/elbow problems went away. Gone! Get one.

 

[ec]

Using a bent shaft since 2001 and after I started using it, my shoulder/wrist/elbow problems went away. Gone! Get one.

WORD!

 

[ringer]

I have a bent shaft touring paddle (Werner Calista) and prefer the bent shaft to my straight shaft ww paddle--especially when doing longer trips, my wrist issues disappeared. But I also think quitting the desk/computer job for six months and paddled instead helped the wrist issue too...

I've noticed some minor tweaks come back since paddling ww. I've also noticed that it's easier to set up for a roll when you've got a bent shaft cause you know the blade position a bit better for the initial brace movement...

RA

 

[Ron]

Bent Shaft

helped me with wrist pain, but I didn't notice any difference in shoulder pain until I got a shorter paddle. I also do some very quick and simple shoulder excercises after I'm though boating that have helped more than any thing I know. I think shoulder pain, like all joint pain, comes from muscle imbalance. The lats get a work out during paddling and tighten up pulling the shoulder joint against the socket making pain. Workout the opposite muscle (deltoids) and pain disappears. Works!!! try it. Ron.

 

[gh]

Not just the delts, the chest as well. The chest is the major opposing muscle for lats.

 

[Ron]

that's why

you do some push ups or bench presses too.