Shoulder Basics: Shoulder pain is a frequent and sometimes career ending injury
to swimmers. Fortunately, with a little bit of understanding and a commitment to proper care, swimmers can both
prevent and/or rehabilitate shoulder injuries.
Shoulder injuries are a result of numerous factors. A basic understanding of the shoulder
anatomy helps to better understand swimmer's shoulder. The shoulder is a meeting place of several bones and muscles.
The clavicle bone acts as a sort of cap to the ball and socket joint of the humerus and shoulder blade. The muscles
of the shoulder, when working properly, help to insure that the ball and socket joint does not pinch against the
clavicle.
Movement of the shoulder is complex and involves the coordination of many muscle groups including
muscles in the upper and lower back , as well as abdominal and pelvic muscles. Repetitive motion, such as that
of swimming, can lead to muscle fatigue, which in turn can result in instability and improper motion.
Preventing Shoulder Injury: The factors leading to shoulder injury include:
1. Inadequate strength and endurance of the muscles around the shoulder, scapula, back, pelvis and abdominal.
2. Shoulder laxity
3. Particular stroke mechanics, with the risk of injury and pain being particularly true for swimmers who swim
with poor technique.
Shoulder injury prevention involves a commitment to proper swimming technique and a comprehensive program to develop
strength, endurance, balance, and flexibility of the muscles. Therefore, dry-land training is a crucial element
of a long lasting swimming career.
Treating Shoulder Injuries:
Most importantly any swimmer with severe shoulder pain should see a physician. Initial treatment may include avoiding
butterfly and freestyle swimming, as these are generally the most taxing on the shoulders. Additionally, swimmers
should be sure to warm up substantially at a gentle pace. Kicking with fins can be done in place of swimming,
but should be done without a kick board.
Swimming can be resumed after an initial period of rest. However, the athlete should be
sure to ice the shoulder and may take anti-inflammatory medication if needed. If shoulder pain returns or is persistent
outside of swim practice a physician should be seen as soon as possible.