Numb feet and legs
 

After an hour or two of paddling, my legs go so numb that when I stand up
on the dock afterwards, I'm as likely as not to fall down again as my legs
collapse under me.

Is there some way to adjust my kayak seat to help my circulation?

--
Paul Tomblin http://xcski.com/blogs/pt/
"I find your lack of clue...disturbing" - SithAdmin Vader.

On 28-May-2005, (Paul Tomblin) wrote:

Is there some way to adjust my kayak seat to help my circulation?

You are cutting off circulation and/or pinching nerves. This can
happen with a seat that is too flat. You end up sitting on a small
area of your butt. If you can increase the support for your butt,
that usually improves the situation. As well, many paddlers report
success with supporting their thighs on a rolled up pad or a foam
block.

You might also be set up too tight - if so, move your footpegs out
a notch or two to loosen up your legs.

Mike

After an hour or two of paddling, my legs go so numb that when I stand up
on the dock afterwards, I'm as likely as not to fall down again as my legs
collapse under me.

Is there some way to adjust my kayak seat to help my circulation?


Same thing used to happen to me. In addition to what Michael suggests, it
might be worth working on using good posture when you sit in your boat, and
when not paddling, work on keeping your lower back muscles strong and
stretched. Many times, leg problems stem from back problems. Worked for
me, anyway; just my $0.02 worth...

Had exact same problem last year. Posted same question last year and got
following answer. It also completely solved the problem of numbness.
Extremely well constructed and currently has around 300 nautical miles of
ocean use. Highly recommend it.

SealLine Kayak Thigh Support Cushion
$39.95 REI Item 722799
http://www.rei.com/online/store/Prod...atalogId=40000
008000&productId=47901036&parent_category_rn=45014 87&vcat=REI_SEARCH

--
Big Island Bob