Common Paddling Injuries & How Physiotherapy Can Help You Stay on the Water
- Advanced Physiotherapy
- 16 hours ago
- 2 min read
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), canoeing, and kayaking offer incredible ways to stay active, explore nature, and enjoy BC’s beautiful waterways. But, like any sport, paddling comes with its own set of physical challenges. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a seasoned paddler, it's important to recognize the common injuries associated with these activities, and how physiotherapy can help keep you strong, pain-free, and ready for your next adventure.
Common Paddling Injuries
Shoulder Strain (Rotator Cuff Injuries)
The repetitive overhead motion of paddling can put added stress on your shoulder muscles and joints. Rotator cuff strains and tendonitis are common in paddlers who overdo it or have poor paddling technique.
Lower Back Pain
Prolonged sitting, poor posture, and the twisting motion of paddling can lead to lower back discomfort or strain, especially in canoeing and kayaking.
Wrist & Elbow Pain (Tendonitis)
Paddling strokes, especially when performed with a tight grip or incorrect form, can cause conditions like "paddler's elbow" (similar to tennis elbow) or wrist tendonitis.
Neck Tension
Looking side to side for navigation or maintaining a forward head posture while paddling can cause neck stiffness or tension headaches.
Knee & Hip Tightness
In kayaking and canoeing, maintaining a bent-knee seated position for long periods can lead to hip and knee stiffness or pain, especially if flexibility is limited.
Prevention & Treatment with Advanced Physiotherapy in White Rock
At Advanced Physiotherapy, we specialize in helping outdoor enthusiasts stay active and injury-free. Our experienced team uses evidence-based treatments to both prevent and rehabilitate common paddling injuries.
How We Can Help:
Customized Exercise Programs to improve shoulder stability, core strength, and flexibility
Hands-on Manual Therapy to relieve tension in tight or overused muscles
Postural Assessments to correct paddling form and reduce strain
Prevention Strategies & Education for warm-ups, technique, and paddling ergonomics
Dry Needling, Ultrasound & Other Modalities for pain relief and faster recovery
Whether you're recovering from an injury or simply want to make the most of the paddling season, we’re here to help you move better and feel stronger.
Ready to stay pain-free this summer?
Book your appointment today with Advanced Physiotherapy in White Rock and paddle with confidence all season long.
📞 Visit www.advancedphysio.ca or call 604-541-9245 to get started.