2006Vests forum
Leg numbness while wearing camera stabilizer vests during operation
20 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- Numbness in legs during vest operation can result from the vest riding too low on the hips, which may compress the femoral artery and restrict blood flow to the legs
- The sensation typically resolves within 8-12 minutes after the pressure is relieved
- Adjusting the position of hip and waist pads higher on the body can reduce numbness, though excessive adjustment may cause hip and back pain
- Operating in a sitting position increases the likelihood of the vest slipping lower and causing numbness
- Modifying waist pad angles by adding washers to mounting screws can improve fit and reduce pressure-related discomfort
- Reducing the number of pads in the front plate and repositioning them lower can decrease pressure while potentially causing mild hip soreness
- Different vest models fit different body types, so trying multiple harnesses may help identify a better match
- Back straps can help distribute weight more evenly and may reduce numbness
Depends on
- The issue was experienced with an EFP vest model with aftermarket modifications, so results may vary with other equipment
- Solutions involved trial and error adjustments specific to individual body geometry and operational situations
- No professional medical evaluation was documented to confirm the femoral artery compression theory
- The discussion occurred in 2006 and reflects equipment and practices from that era