Kayak Injuries

Multiple styles of kayaking allow for individuals of various skill levels and interests to benefit from the sport. However, the very nature of kayaking demands repetitive motion that can cause injuries in even the most experienced paddlers.

  1. Sciatica

    • The seated position in a kayak forces the tailbone down onto the sciatic nerve, and prolonged sitting can result in pinching of the nerve. This can result in a sharp pain starting deep in the rear that often travels down the leg (See Reference 1).

    Lower Back Pain

    • Proper paddling technique requires torso rotation initiated from the hips. Optimum torso rotation requires a slight lean forward (See Reference 2). This lean with repetitive rotation puts strain on the lower back as it must support the body even while rotating.

    Shoulder Pain

    • The rotator cuff withstands a great deal of torque in turning maneuvers and other control strokes, particularly in whitewater kayaking. Sudden force on the shoulder can result in damage to the tendons of the rotator cuff and the surrounding muscles. (See Reference 3).

    Ankle/Foot Pain

    • The feet are used for torque and boat control. Pain in the arches, Achilles tendon, and ankle complex are not uncommon as the feet are at an odd angle in both touring and whitewater kayaks.

    Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

    • Quick and sudden wrist flexion can be required for control strokes in whitewater or rough water conditions. Repeated wrist flexion combined with torsion can often yield carpal tunnel syndrome.