Running Head: GO-ROW PADDLE SYSTEM

Go-ROW Paddle: A One Armed Standup Paddle Boarding System

Sydney Carnevale
Touro University Nevada

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What is Stand-up Paddle Boarding?

Standup paddle boarding, a native sport of Hawaii, was brought to the mainland as a
contemporary sport and leisure activity. Stand up paddling, or SUP, is a sport known to tax the
entire muscular system, challenge balance, and increase overall coordination. Most enthusiasts
remark on how SUP targets the core and serves as great functional training by strengthening the
entire posterior chain of muscles. The cardiovascular system and pulmonary systems are also
challenged and the individual can adjust this challenge based on their fitness level. Whether the
user is looking to get a heavy duty cross training workout or simply strengthen their body and
calm their mind with friends and family, there is something for everyone in this sport.
There are significant mental, emotional, and spiritual benefits for individuals who
actively engage in meaningful leisure activities including increased self-esteem, quality of life
and a sense of defined purpose. Options for participation in leisure activities are often narrowed
for those who experience traumatic injuries or have congenital conditions (Taylor, & McGruder,
1996). Without the proper tools and compensatory skills, SUP would be considered an
improbable pursuit by many with functional deficits. However, the nature of a sports equipment
should not deter participation. While there is limited equipment for SUP, just a board and a
paddle, there are many ways to implement adaptations based on the clients needs.
For many users, the minimalistic quality of the sport is a major draw and allows for
convenient transport of the equipment. However, the lack of equipment makes adaptation more
difficult for users. There is a wide array of extrinsic factors that can be altered in order to
increase an individuals performance. One way that the sport may be adapted is to have the user
kneel, rather than stand, in turn lowering their center of gravity and bringing it closer to the
board. This change will reduce the load on the bodys muscular and vestibular system and allow

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the user to feel more secure. Another option is to choose a board that is most suited for the
individual. SUP boards come in various lengths and widths in order for there to be a good fit
between user and equipment. Paddle blade shape, stroke patterns, and energy conservation
techniques can also be modified to best suit the participant.
Current Options for Individuals with Disabilities
Currently there are no SUP adaptations that are commercially available for individuals
who have non-use of one upper extremity (UE) or have UE amputations. There have been
adaptations made to kayaking and canoeing paddles for users that can only use one arm. The
Freedom Paddle System, invented by Mike Rose, is a one-armed canoe/kayak paddle that utilizes
a personalized handle system so that the user can grip the paddle and move it through the water
(One Armed Paddle Project, 2014). The system is well designed and durable, however it will
cost upwards of $150.00 for the client. Although this system is highly effective for use in a
kayak or canoe, the system cannot be readily used for a stand up paddle board. In a kayak or
canoe, the individual is very close to the water which allows for their arm to be a much better
conductor of force to propel the vessel forward. However, if the same design were to be used for
SUP, the individual would experience significant torque and muscle strain on the structures of
the shoulder on the non-affected side. Repetitive stress injuries are common amongst individuals
with unilateral amputations, UE non-use, or congenital UE deficits therefore the design of the
system must focus on limiting the strain on the upper extremity and incorporating the stability
and power of the core muscles to create force (Gambrell, 2008).
ProPel Paddle Company has also created a one-armed paddle for kayakers and canoers
that uses the forearm of the mobile arm to increase stability and maximize propulsion (ProPel
Paddles, n.d.). There is a forearm cuff as well as a hand grip that are attached to the paddle

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shafts in a position that is more comfortable and efficient for the client. This company has
created paddles for both children and adults and can cost upwards of $115.00 per paddle
depending on the amount of supports added to the original design. Although these systems are
incredibly useful for individuals who may only have the use of one arm, their design would not
be appropriate for standup paddle boarding. Just as the Freedom Paddle System used the clients
upper body and core strength while they were sitting close to the water, the distance created by
standing on a board would increase the torque and pull on the clients upper extremity. One
benefit of the ProPel paddle system is that the design calls for a forearm cuff to stabilize the pole
and that component receives a large portion of the force created by the paddle being pulled
through the water.
Another option for individuals with disabilities that are interested in water sports are
adaptive paddle systems that attach to kayaks/canoes. Products, such as the one created by Mark
Theobold, founder of Disabled Adventurers, are very versatile and can be used by individuals
who not only have UE deficits, but have major trunk or lower extremity deficits. The systems
often part of an entirely adapted kayak/canoe and are custom made which makes them often very
pricey. There is a seat with built in harnesses and trunk supports that allows the user to sit within
the vessel. The paddle is then attached to a central component that only requires the user to put
their hand(s) on the center piece and apply pressure down and backwards. The central
component uses a series of levers to multiply the force of the user (Disabled Adventurers, n.d.).
These systems are highly effective for individuals who have experienced spinal cord injuries and
have limited trunk control. A central structure would not be appropriate for stand-up paddle
boarding as it would raise significant safety concerns. If there was a large metal piece extending
up from the center of the board, there would be the risk that the pole would cause bodily harm if

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the user were to fall. Therefore, it would be more appropriate for the adapted device to be on the
individual, rather than on the board.
Specifications and Use of the Go-ROW Paddle
There are various components of the Go-ROW Paddle system that allow for
independence and customization without having to invest in the high cost of a custom paddle.
The system is mounted onto a shoulder saddle made from a flexible waterproof foam, allowing
individuals with various sized shoulders to use the same system. The shoulder saddle is attached
to the user by a trunk harness that is outfitted with two quick release straps and one connector
strap. One safety strap loops under the users dominant arm while the other safety straps goes
across the users chest, like a car safety belt. The connector strap connects those two straps
using a buckle to create a more stable harness system. The upper portion of the paddle is
connected to the shoulder saddle by a very strong elastic that allows for some give when the user
swings the paddle over the board. This elastic also allows for the system to be taken apart for
easy transport and storage. The upper paddle is then attached to the lower paddle via a complex
hinge joint. The upper portion of the paddle should be adjusted such that when the individual
holds onto the lower paddle, their elbow is bent at approximately a ninety degree angle. The
lower portion of the paddle also has an adjustable component that acts as both a lengthening
device as well as a safety release. The length of the pole is approximately 64 inches with 12
inches of adjustability. The pole would be best suited for a clients who are approximately 52 62 in height. There is a flexible elbow bend between the two portions of the pole that aid in
moving the paddle up and over the board between strokes. The Go-ROW Paddle employs a
universal paddle head which allows both right and left handed users to utilize the system without
having to change the paddle.

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One major consideration when developing sporting systems for individuals with a
disability is in regards to safety. The Go-ROW Paddle System is equipped with multiple safety
components that allow the individual to both be safe and independent while using their
equipment. One feature is the quick release strap that hold the shoulder saddle on the body. With
a quick pull on the strap, the entire shoulder system will drop off the body. The user will not
have to worry about the loss of their paddle in the water as it is hollow and buoyant. Another
safety feature is on the paddle shaft itself. The adjustable portion of the pole also allows for
complete removal of the lower half of the paddle, therefore allowing the client to detach the pole
completely from the harness by pulling the locking pin.
Cost Analysis
The Go-Row Paddle is a highly cost efficient option for individuals who are interested in
stand up paddle boarding. Current adaptive paddles for kayaking and canoeing cost upwards of
$200.00 and currently there are no manufactured adaptive paddles for SUP. A custom paddle can
cost anywhere from a couple of hundred dollars to thousands of dollars depending on the needs
and specifications of the client. The Go-Row Paddle was fabricated for under $60.00 and
completed over a three day period (See Appendix A).
Diagnoses, Client Factors, & Performance Skills
The Go-ROW Paddle is a step in creating a more inclusive platform for SUP. By
creating a paddle system that utilizes artificial joints and reduces upper extremity torque and
strain, more individuals would be able to participate in an exciting and popular leisure activity.
These characteristics make this an ideal system for an individual who has non-use of one upper
extremity. For example, weakness or non-use of one side of the body is a common sequela of
individuals who have suffered a cerebral vascular accident (CVA). Approximately one third of

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patients who have had a CVA will experience pervasive and long-term functional deficits. Much
of those functional deficits stem from the sensorimotor limitations of the involved side (Dimyan
& Cohen 2011). If the client was able to stand or kneel on the involved side, the movement of
the board would provide somatosensory and proprioceptive input to the body that may not occur
during common daily activities. The incorporation of the affected side would also provide an
opportunity to encourage plasticity of the motor cortex as the body continues to adjust to the
dynamic environmental context (Liepert, Uhde, Grf, Leidner, & Weiller, 2001).
The Go-ROW Paddle would also be useful for individuals who have an upper extremity
amputation. A great feature of the system is that it does not require the individual have a specific
level amputation to be able to use it safely and with ease. For these individuals, SUP provides
low impact resistance training for the non-affected side. The resistance created as the paddle is
pushed through the water and brought to the other side will engage the deltoids, biceps, and
triceps. Paddling also recruits the use of the chest and latissimus dorsi muscles which stabilize
the movements. The user can increase the endurance and strength of key muscle groups without
damaging ligaments or joints by utilizing the trunk harness.
It should be noted that no matter what the clients diagnosis, SUP will also greatly
challenge the lower extremity muscle groups. The standing pattern used by the client can vary
depending on their level of comfort and balance. The client can stand with the feet hip distance
apart or staggered. The feet can be placed forward or behind the boards center of gravity in
order to tax the various flexor and extensor muscles of the trunk and lower extremities. Multiple
studies have discovered that for individuals who have suffered a CVA, dynamic standing balance
is often impaired in both lower extremities due to decrease muscle strength and endurance on the
affected side. Strength and sensation deficits in the lower extremity will affect balance, which in

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turn increases risk of falls, raises safety concerns, and limits occupational performance (Kligyte,
Lundy-Ekman, & Medeiros, 2003; Kluding, & Gajewski, 2009). In order to increase lower
extremity strength and reduce the use of unsafe compensatory balance strategies, a dynamic
movement sport such as SUP could be utilized as a therapeutic intervention for these individuals.
Water is fluid and somewhat unpredictable, especially as a surface medium, therefore dynamic
balance is greatly challenged with each stroke of the paddle. The activity can be graded so that
the individual could kneel or stand depending on their level of balance and comfort.
Engagement in SUP can also address various processing skills including pacing,
attending, handling, sequencing, and adjusting. The client must be able to effectively pace the
timing of the paddle going in and out of the water in order to maximize propulsion. The client
needs to attend to the tasks at hand in order to maintain safety as well as remain aware of their
environment. For example, the client must be able to attend to the environment if there is a
passing boat. A wake produced by a boat will increase the movement of the board and the client
will have to adjust accordingly in order to remain balanced and safe. Proper handling of the
equipment will also be necessary so that the client can safely and independently utilizing the GoRow system. Lastly, the client must be able to sequence not only for the donning and doffing of
the equipment but be able to maintain a consistent pattern of left-right paddling.
There are also major psychosocial components that can be addressed through the use of
an adapted paddling product. Maintaining independence and locus of control often become a
central focus of individuals with a disability. By creating a system that allows for independent
donning, doffing, and use, the user can engage in a leisure occupation that is meaningful,
challenging, and social in nature. The participation in a healthy leisure activity and the resulting
social interaction could decrease distress, increasing positive coping skills, and encourage social

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support amongst individuals with physical challenges. One focus of occupational therapy is to
encourage the use of positive coping and stress management strategies when faced with
psychological distress, poor social integration, and poor adjustment to life events. There are
often high rates of depression and anxiety experienced by those with UE traumas which
emphasizes the need for interventions that focus on developing positive coping skills (Desmond,
2007). Whether or not the client utilizes positive or negative coping strategies can greatly affect
their psychosocial functioning and, in turn, their overall occupational performance.
Considerations for Future Devices
There were several components of the Go-Row prototype that could be adjusted in order
to increase the utility of the device. The lengthening mechanism on the pole itself could be made
so there is less friction. Currently, it may be difficult at first to manipulate the lengthening
system with one hand as it is snug. One way that this can be done in through the use of a multitiered lengthening system that has the user twist a locking mechanism instead of using a pin.
Another consideration is regarding the buoyancy of the paddle itself. Although the paddle has
water tight sealant, the shoulder harness makes the pole very top heavy. The pole will float if the
client dropped it in the water, however it may be difficult to fish out of the water while trying to
maintain balance on the stand up paddle board. Lastly, future devices can focus on aiding
individuals who have lower body weakness or trunk weaknesses so that they too may participate
in stand up paddle boarding. The use of standing supports increase participation and provide
options for individuals who may have too much lower body weakness to hold themselves up on
the dynamic surface.
Summary

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Stand-up paddle boarding is a healthy and fun way to increase physical strength and
endurance, develop positive coping strategies, and engage in meaningful social interactions.
Engagement in meaningful leisure activities not only is important to maintain occupational
balance but it can promote self-efficacy and role competency. Humans are innately occupational
beings and it is the job of an occupational therapist to enable all individuals, no matter what
deficits they may be experiencing, to engage in those occupations that they deem to be
important. The Go-ROW Paddle is a system that could open doors for a multitude of individuals
with various challenges to engage in an activity they may have once deemed to be impossible.
The system promotes independence through its simple, safe design and can lead to the
development of healthier bodies and minds for those who use it.

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References

Desmond, D. M. (2007). Coping, affective distress, and psychosocial adjustment among people
with traumatic upper limb amputations. Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 62(1), 1521.
Dimyan, M. A., & Cohen, L. G. (2011). Neuroplasticity in the context of motor rehabilitation
after stroke. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 7(2), 76-85.
Disabled Adventurers (n.d.). Paddling fixtures: Boom type. Retrieved from
http://www.disabledadventurers.com/PadFixBoom.html
Gambrell, C. R. (2008). Overuse syndrome and the unilateral upper limb amputee: consequences
and prevention. Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, 20(3), 126-132.
Kligyte, I., Lundy-Ekman, L., & Medeiros, J. M. (2003). Relationship between lower extremity
muscle strength and dynamic balance in people post-stroke. Medicina (Kaunas), 39(2),
122-128.
Kluding, P., & Gajewski, B. (2009). Lower-extremity strength differences predict activity
limitations in people with chronic stroke. Physical Therapy, 89(1), 73-81.
Liepert, J., Uhde, I., Grf, S., Leidner, O., & Weiller, C. (2001). Motor cortex plasticity during
forced-use therapy in stroke patient. Journal of Neurology, 248(4), 315-321.
One Armed Paddle System (2014). Different strokes for different folks. Retrieved from
http://www.onearmpaddle.com/about/
ProPel Paddles (n.d.). ProPel paddle systems. Retrieved from
http://ellingwoods.wix.com/propel-paddles-2#!about
Taylor, L. P. S., & McGruder, J. E. (1996). The meaning of sea kayaking for persons with spinal
cord injuries. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 50(1), 39-46.

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Appendix A

Quantity

Item

Cost

Store

1x10 PVC (cut to 64 in)

$2.43

Home Depot

1 x 2 PVC

$1.18

Home Depot

x 3 Eye hook screw

$0.79

Home Depot

2*

Spray Paint

$3.79

Home Depot

6 Bilge Pump Tube

$6.99

Home Depot

Emergency Paddle Head

$12.99

Walmart

1*

Key Float

$1.99

Walmart

2 yards

2 Black Nylon

$3.98

Joanns Fabric

1 yard

1 Black Nylon

$1.99

Joanns Fabric

6 inches

2 Red Nylon

$0.47

Joanns Fabric

2 Quick Release Buckle

$4.99

Joanns Fabric

1 Quick Release Buckle

$2.99

Joanns Fabric

1*

Sewing Kit

$3.39

Target

1*

1 Velcro

$2.49

Target

1*

Bungee Cord

$1.98

Target

Shoulder Pad Inserts

$15.99

Sports Authority

Paddle

Harness

Total

$68.43

Total *

$54.79

* Denotes materials already owned