Just like any other sport, scuba diving requires a certain amount of physical strength and well-being. That’s not to say that if you have, for example, a bad hand or an aching back that you cannot participate. The key is to let your condition be known and work around it, rather than trying to push through the pain to just follow along like everyone else. Back problems can be common issues to all athletes, and with scuba diving especially, you need to take precautions to avoid injuring yourself more. Here are five tips to always remember when diving with a back problem.
- What size scuba tank are you using? If you feel that you can get away with a smaller tank, or are fine with shortening the time you spend underwater, switching to a smaller tank may be the better option. Less weight on your shoulders helps to prevent potential injury to your back- especially above the water.
- How is the weight on your BC distributed? Instead of wearing a weight belt, try positioning several weights throughout the different pockets and openings of the BC. Some say that the higher the weight is located on the torso, the less stress on the back.
- If you are diving from the shore, there are a few ways to better transport your gear. Try using a wagon or some kind of cart to pull your equipment to the shore, rather than having to carry it yourself. You can also use the water to your advantage by allowing it to carry your equipment for you. Once you are in the water about calf-deep you can float gear and drag it along until you reach deep enough water to easily slip into it.
- If you are diving from a boat, you should receive as much assistance as you need when it comes to carrying your gear. Often times crew members will not even place your equipment on you until you are just about ready to enter the water.
- When exiting the water you can rely on ladders and crew members to provide help. Basically, you can doff your scuba unit while floating on the surface and a crew member will pull it aboard for you. Then, if a ladder is available, you can simply climb up, to re-enter the boat.
Having a back problem should not prevent you from enjoying your scuba diving vacation. Just like any other sport, it is important to be aware of your problems and avert further injury. We at Dip ‘N Dive believe that your wellbeing and safety is the number one priority when it comes to diving. You can follow these simple tips to avoid straining your back.
