So..... lots of options for the mechanical solution. I would like to offer some additional thoughts on the actual PROBLEM caused by aforementioned combination of paddling AND mechanical compression of gaskets. Like many of us, I have had to modify my paddling over the years to deal with various injuries; some caused by paddling, some not. For me this includes tendinitis, knee and shoulder issues and carpal tunnel syndrome. First, let's look at WHAT tendonitis IS (From web MD) Tendinitis (also called tendonitis) is an inflammation or irritation of a tendon, a thick cord that attaches bone to muscle. Incorrect posture (paddle posture/technique) at work or home or poor stretching or conditioning before exercise or playing sports also increases a person's risk. Other risk factors for tendinitis, include: An abnormal or poorly placed bone or joint (such as length differences in your legs orarthritis in a joint) that stresses soft-tissue structures.Stresses from other conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriatic arthritis, thyroid disorders, or unusual medication reactions. (OR DRYSUIT GASKETS)Overuse or doing too much too soon when the tendons are not used to a movement or to the task taken on. Tendinitis is common in "weekend warriors," people that play and exercise hard only on weekends.Occasionally an infection can cause tendinitis, especially infection from a cat or dog bite to the hand or a finger. So.... more than likely, all things being equal, add to the equation repetetive motion associated with paddling in all kinds of conditions, gaskets may be the proverbial "straw" that breaks the camel's back... possibly limiting circulation via restricted bloodflow to the respective tendon, and thus exacerbating inflamation as a result. IN ADDITION to any mechanical fixes/experimentation that will vary DRASTICALLY across the infinite spectrum of individuals and their (similarly vast) gear choices, some things that can be done prophylactic, mid, and post-"event" are as follows. and....Please note that these are what have worked for me and are based on the advice of Docs and PT's and OT's and other outdoor enthusiasts and may not work for you. I have HAD to do ALL of these in conjunction to be able to continue to paddle on a trip. In no particular order. Stretch your business: before, during breaks, and post paddle. Be gentle and start slow... you don't want to tear anything. Ice your buisiness: As long and as often as you can stand it.If you are wearing gaskets, the water is cold. As long as it's colder than your body temp, it will do at least SOME good. Pre-paddle, Lunch/break-time, and post paddle Anti-inflamatories: If you know you are prone to this condition and can tolerate ibuprofen (advil) OR Naproxen (Aleve), get some on board prophylactically in the prescribed (see the bottle or talk to your DR.) dosage a day or so prior to, during, and post trip. Change what you are doing: Change up your Paddle technique, paddle (shaft, blade size, etc), posture, gasket choice (see above), cadence, intensity, grip location (closer-in or farther out on shaft), kayak (yay! another excuse to solve the N plus one question: number of boats/paddles/garments necessary equals one more than currently in your quiver). Take more breaks Paddle fewer miles: Something is better than nothing, after all. I had to bail on a Maine coast through-paddle and "settle" for 3 shorter multi-day trips based out of Vinalhaven so I could deal with carpal tunnel recovery. This was vastly different than the high mileage "plan," but didn't suck in any way (got to use my hammock more).I hope this helps out, y'all. Good luck in your adventures! Jeff