Small paddle recs for someone recovering from shoulder injury?

[highsierrabear]

Hey everyone- Dedicated reader, but mostly lurker here.

Any recommendations on paddles with smaller blades?

I am recovering from a broken scapula and broken collarbone among other injuries (deer vs bicycle @ 37mph).

I currently use a Starboard Wave Carbon for surf (their biggest blade).  I think a small blade, with less resistance might be smarter for a month or two. Hoping to use flat water SUP as therapy in more ways than one.

(Normally a big fit active guy- 6' 195lbs).

Love boutique carbon stuff, but don't need something too expensive.

Enjoy your time on the water.  It becomes more precious when you are laid up for months with 2 broken arms.

Thanks in advance.

[Weinstein23]

I would look at the Werner Nitro. The blade is only 7.3" wide

[southwesterly]

When I switched from a Kialoa Shaka Pu' to a smaller (and shorter) Methane, my chronic elbow pain went away.
Also, check out Dave Kalama's paddle tips in his blog.

[chipmonk]

I've owned the Methane and the Nitro. Both are very easy on the joints, with a slight edge to the Nitro...I think because it is a lil more efficient it would end up being best for rehab. Blade shape is a lil funky, so feels unusual compared to other blades.

[highsierrabear]

Thanks for the tips!

Looking at the Werner adjustable Nitro right now.  I think I'll buy myself one as a "present" for getting back on the water in a few weeks.

Have a brand new Starboard K15 with about 20 minutes water time on it, sitting in my backyard for months now unridden (whispering to me, mocking me).

[stoneaxe]

You might also try the Jimmy Lewis fibreglass if you can find one...lots of flex to the shaft and very gentle on the shoulders. I used bro Bills for two weeks last time on Maui....couldn't believe the difference in how my shoulders would feel at the end of a day.

[Wazza66]

I had a totally smashed r shoulder as a result of a motorbike vs bitumen accident. I smashed my collarbone, blew the joint socket away and broke my shoulder blade in several places.

After 2 major shoulder surgeries I am paddling a SUP still with a level of pain that is always there and limited movement.

I use a Kialoa Methane paddle as it is a bit smaller and doesn't seem to place as much pressure on my shoulder joint.

I am loving this blade as I have tried most other paddles on the market and love the Methane the best.

Good luck,

Wazza

[JC50]

If money's tight you could always grind down your current blade a bit until it's tolerable.