Re: [Paddlewise] seat and sore backs

rdiaz_at_ix.netcom.com wrote:
> 
> John Waddington wrote:
> >
> > [snip] If I use this seat several days in a row or really
> > put on the mileage, my lower back gets sore. This is not a problem I
> > usually have. I will need a new seat for my new boat. Does anyone who
> > has back problems have a seat that works for them and could pass on
> > suggestions?
> 
> You might also be able to alter it or any seat by placing something at
> your lower back that will give added, push-into-your back support.

One of Ralph's suggestions will most likely alleviate the lower back
strain.  It sounds like you need more support in the lumbar region,   OR  
there are pressure points from the seatback which are hitting you wrong. 
Two added suggestions:

1. Replace the seatback with a backband.  A back band is all the support
most folks need, and can be positioned vertically *exactly* where you need
it.

2. Do some minicell outfitting on the existing seatback.  Glue a 1/2 to 3/4
inch-thick layer to the seatback, paddle for an hour, and identify where
the "hot spots" are.  Mark with permanent marker.  When home (and your back
is still sore), use a high speed right-angle grinder (80 grit) to slowly
carve away at the foam where you need a dent.  Hop back into the yak and
see if the hot spot is relieved.  If not, carve some more.  If you
over-carve the foam, you can always glue another thin layer to what you've
got and re-carve.  For a really luxurious seatback, as a last act,
contact-cement a 2 mm layer of Nylon-2 wetsuit material.  It will protect
the foam, and give you a surface which is smoother than the raw foam.

You might also benefit from some stretching exercises -- consult a sports
trainer.  I'd guess strenghtening your abs would help, but I'm way over my
head when it comes to stuff like that.  I just know all my yak aches and
pains lessen when I'm more fit in the middle of my bod.

-- 
Dave Kruger
Astoria, OR


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