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Physio-4 Therapies for Swimming

I’m sure you must be aware of the news that – Four members of the Australian women’s water polo team have been placed into quarantine in Rio after being struck down with a virus just days out from the opening ceremony. And you might think that’s the worst thing to happen, but the worst scenario would be to get injured while swimming and other water sports. Compared to other sports, swimming has a relatively low risk of injury. However, the most common body part injured while swimming is the shoulder. Shoulder pain can be caused by muscle overuse, incorrect technique or swimming only one stroke during every workout. Whatever the reason, these factors can lead to shoulder discomfort and injury, most commonly rotator cuff tendinitis.  If you experience shoulder pain during or after swimming, your physiotherapist can help.

Physio 4 Therapies for Swimming with tips to prevent injury, alleviate pain and keep you moving for life.

1. Be mindful of body rotation.
Never swim with a “flat body” as this limits the rotation of the shoulder along the axis of the spine. Develop a symmetrical way to rotate your body for an efficient breathing pattern and this will greatly reduce the risk of shoulder injuries.

2. Enter the water with a flat hand.
A hand directed outwards when entering the water leads to unhealthy internal rotation. This is one of the most common causes of acute pain in the shoulder as it overuses the muscles. It is best to enter the water with a flat hand, fingertips first.

3. Maintain good posture.
The saying “shoulders back, chest forward” applies both in and out of the water. Hunched or rounded shoulders can lead to shoulder injuries and “cross-overs” in your stroke. Strengthening the muscles at the back of the shoulder and stretching those at the front will help prevent injury, and help you to swim faster.

4. Incorporate bilateral breathing into your swim workout.
Breathing only on one side will develop the muscles on that side more than the other. This can eventually lead to shoulder problems. By breathing on both sides with every workout you can prevent this from happening.

And remember when swimming outdoors, never dive head first into water unless the depth is known. And, when swimming in lakes or oceans be aware of any natural hazards such as tides and rapids, and never swim alone.

Physiotherapists are the recovery masters suggested by most doctors. They are university-educated health professionals who work with patients of all ages to analyze and treat essentially any versatility issue. Physiotherapists give consideration to orthopedic issues, for example, sports and working environment injuries, and additionally cardio-respiratory and neurological conditions.

As Melbourne’s most physically dynamic well being experts, Physiotherapies know how to keep you moving forever.