Sailing and windsurfing involve postures which are can lead to back pain. The spine suffers rotation movements with load and counter resistance with the trunk kept full bent and inclined forwards. This overloads the intervertebral discs and is a risk to getting back pains. Also, when a sailing competitor hangs from the trapeze he adopts hyperextension postures that overload the facet joint. In windsurfing, the shoulders may adopt forced postures which overload and create stress on various parts of the spinal structure. Finally, the cold and wet make muscular contractions more probable.

As well as supporting the whole trunk and shoulders, W-WEAR corrects posture and keeps the shoulder and each item in the correct position so that each group works in an optimum fashion and overloading and stresses that must be absorbed by the back and shoulders are reduced.

SAILING AND WINDSURFING TIPS:

COMPENSATORY EXERCISES

An exercise programme should be followed to develop the vertebral column muscles, compensating any possible imbalance. These must be personalised exercises, recommended by a doctor.

PROTECTION AGAINST THE WET AND COLD ENVIRONMENT

“Wetsuits” must be used in winter to provide protection from the cold and water.

W-WEAR keeps the back, shoulders and kidneys at an appropriate temperature.

CORRECT HARNESS ADJUSTMENT

In windsurfing, the harness must be used, especially in strong winds. It is important to adjust this correctly to keep the arms half bent and to maintain a comfortable posture.