17535 Swimmers Shoulder

Overview

Swimmer's shoulder is a term for pain and inflammation around the shoulder joint, usually caused by repeated overhead motions like those used in swimming. It affects the muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues that help your shoulder move smoothly.

Yes, it's very common, especially among competitive and recreational swimmers. It's one of the top reasons swimmers see a doctor or physiotherapist.

It can affect anyone, but it is most often seen in people who swim regularly, especially those who train intensively or do a lot of freestyle, butterfly, or backstroke. It can also happen in people who do repetitive overhead activities like tennis or painting.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pain in the front or top of your shoulder
• Pain that worsens when you lift your arm above your head
• Aching or stiffness after swimming
• Weakness in the shoulder or arm

Symptoms in children

• Children may not describe pain clearly; they may simply avoid using the arm or cry when moving it
• They may complain of pain only after swimming practice

Symptoms in older adults

• Pain may be accompanied by stiffness and reduced range of movement
• They might experience shoulder pain at night or when lying on the affected side

Causes

Main causes

• Repeated overhead arm movements that overwork the shoulder tendons
• Muscle weakness or imbalance around the shoulder
• Poor swimming technique or fatigue
• Lack of rest between training sessions

Risk factors

• Doing lots of high-intensity swimming or training without enough rest
• Having tight or weak shoulder muscles
• Previous shoulder injury
• Being new to swimming and increasing activity too quickly

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have severe pain and cannot lift your arm
• Your shoulder looks different or appears out of place
• You have numbness or tingling down your arm

Book a routine appointment if:

• Pain lasts more than 2 weeks despite rest and simple measures
• Pain interferes with your sleep or daily activities
• You keep having shoulder problems after swimming

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and how your shoulder affects your swimming or daily life. They will also examine your shoulder, checking movement and strength. Most of the time this is enough to understand the problem.

Tests that may be done

• Your doctor may ask you to move your shoulder in different directions to see which movements hurt.
• They might do an ultrasound or MRI if they need a closer look at the soft tissues, but this is not always needed.
• X-rays are sometimes used to check the bones if injury is suspected.

What to expect at your appointment

You will likely be recommended to stop the painful activity for a while and start gentle exercises. Your doctor may suggest physiotherapy or a follow-up visit if things don't improve.

Treatment

Treatment for swimmer's shoulder focuses on calming the inflammation, restoring a normal range of motion, and then strengthening the shoulder so it can handle swimming again.

Self-care at home

• Rest the shoulder from swimming and other painful activities for a few days
• Apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for 15-20 minutes several times a day
• Try gentle range-of-motion exercises as pain decreases
• Use a warm pack for stiff muscles after the first few days

Medical treatments

If self-care is not enough, a healthcare professional may recommend pain relief tablets, anti-inflammatory creams, or physiotherapy. In some cases, they may suggest a steroid injection (a medicine that reduces inflammation) inside the shoulder joint. Always speak to your doctor before starting any treatment.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for swimmer's shoulder. It may be considered only if the pain continues despite months of proper treatment, or if there is a tear or other structural problem that needs repair.

Living with this condition

While your shoulder heals, try to avoid movements that cause sharp pain. During daily tasks, keep your elbow close to your body when lifting or carrying. Use your other arm to help when reaching high.

Lifestyle tips

• Work on strengthening your shoulder girdle and upper back with simple exercises
• Improve your swimming technique to reduce strain on the shoulder
• Take regular rest days to allow your shoulder to recover
• Warm up properly before swimming

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet helps your body heal. Include foods with protein, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. For exercise, stick to low-impact activities like walking or cycling while your shoulder recovers.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Coping with ongoing shoulder pain can be frustrating, especially if it keeps you from swimming. It's normal to feel worried or down. Talking to a friend, coach, or counsellor can help you manage these feelings.

Prevention

Yes, many cases can be prevented by gradually building up your training, using proper technique, and keeping your shoulder muscles strong and balanced. Listen to your body and take rest when you feel pain.

Complications

If left untreated

• Chronic (long-term) pain and stiffness
• Weakness in the shoulder that makes everyday activities difficult
• A higher risk of tendon tears or bursitis (inflammation of the fluid-filled sac near the joint)

Long-term outlook

With early care and proper rehabilitation, most people with swimmer's shoulder fully recover and return to swimming and other activities. It may take a few weeks or months, but staying consistent with your exercises and gradually returning to sport gives you the best chance of healing.

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