Swimmer's Shoulder: The Injury That Slows Your Stroke and How to Beat It with Physiotherapy

Swimming is a comprehensive and beneficial sport, but its repetitive movements, especially those of the arms, can lead to overuse and specific injuries. Among these, "Swimmer's Shoulder" is one of the most common, affecting athletes of all levels and limiting their performance and enjoyment. As a physiotherapist, my goal is to help you understand this condition and guide you toward an effective recovery so you can get back in the water pain-free.

What is Swimmer's Shoulder?

The term "Swimmer's Shoulder" encompasses a group of painful conditions around the shoulder joint, primarily rotator cuff tendinitis or subacromial impingement syndrome. It occurs due to a combination of repetitive elevation and internal rotation movements (more than 16,000 strokes per week in elite swimmers), glenohumeral instability, muscle imbalances (especially between internal and external rotators, and scapular stabilizers), and poor swimming technique. Over time, this overuse can inflame the tendons and bursa, leading to pain and limitation.

Recognizing Symptoms and the Importance of Early Diagnosis

Identifying Swimmer's Shoulder early is crucial for effective recovery. Symptoms usually include gradual pain in the front and side of the shoulder, which worsens during and after swimming, especially with strokes like freestyle or butterfly. It can also manifest as discomfort when lifting the arm overhead, sleeping on the affected side, or performing daily activities. Weakness, clicking, or a reduction in range of motion may also be felt. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek a physiotherapy assessment to get an accurate diagnosis and begin appropriate treatment, preventing the injury from becoming chronic.