: Hi Bailey, I've got the same injury, it's 4 years old, but still not up to
: scratch. Top that off with a 6 month old broken foot. Rehab is one of my
: objectives in getting back into kayaking. I'm hoping paddling will be good
: physical therapy--providing it isn't over done...[don't go out too far].
: I've heard that the greenland paddle has less resistance through the
: water. There was a good discussion on this board just a while ago. But
: I've also heard that the fancy ultra light paddles aren't really worth the
: extra money, less durability and versatility [unless you're loaded with $
: or obsessed]. Good luck. M.

Have torn the bicep tendon where it attaches at the top front of my shoulder. Took 7 months to feel better and still have to be careful. The shoulder joint is quite unstable and all the parts are inter-related so you gotta be careful not to rush the re-hab. Anyway most moderate soft tissue injuries will heal in 6 weeks but tendon and ligaments can take much longer ( one or more years! ) due to reduced blood flow I've been told.

The good news is that yes a narrow bladed paddle is much easier on your joints and some kayakers even use a 48" single bladed paddle again not too wide, no more than 5". With many shoulder injuries you can use the arm if you don't raise it above shoulder level. Just listen to your body.