Swimmer’s shoulder is a common injury affecting many individuals participating in swimming or other overhead sports. Pain and inflammation in the shoulder joint can significantly impact an athlete’s performance and overall quality of life. This blog post will discuss the recovery process for a swimmer’s shoulder injury, including the time it takes for rehabilitation and the importance of incorporating swimmer’s shoulder exercises into the recovery plan.
Understanding Swimmer’s Shoulder
Swimmer’s shoulder, technically known as shoulder impingement syndrome, occurs primarily due to the repeated overhead motion involved in activities like swimming. The constant overhead movement, combined with poor technique or muscular imbalances, can lead to wear and tear of the shoulder tendons. It will cause irritation, inflammation, and pain in the affected area.
Recovery Time for Swimmer’s Shoulder
The recovery time for a swimmer’s shoulder can vary depending on the severity of the injury, the individual’s overall health, and their compliance with the rehabilitation plan. On average, complete recovery may take several weeks to several months. However, it is essential to note that each person’s journey is unique, and patience is crucial during rehabilitation.
Step-by-Step Recovery Process
1. Diagnosis: The first step in recovery is to consult a healthcare professional specializing in sports injuries or orthopedics. They will conduct a thorough examination, potentially including diagnostic imaging, to determine the extent of the injury and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
2. Rest and Protection: Initially, resting the affected shoulder is crucial to allow the inflamed tissues to heal. Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. The shoulder may need to be immobilized with a brace or sling to prevent further damage.
3. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy plays a vital role in the recovery process for swimmer’s shoulder. A qualified therapist will design a personalized rehabilitation plan that includes swimmer’s shoulder exercises tailored to the individual’s needs. These exercises aim to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint, improve posture, and correct any underlying biomechanical issues.
Swimmer’s Shoulder Exercises:
· Rotator Cuff Strengthening: Exercises such as external and internal rotations, T’s, W’s, and Y’s can be done with a Vasa Trainer Pro or a Vasa SwimErg, (or resistance bands or lightweight dumbbells) to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles, which are essential for stabilizing the shoulder joint.
· Scapular Stabilization: Strengthening the muscles that control the movement of the shoulder blade is crucial. Exercises like scapular retractions, rows, and wall slides can improve scapular stability and reduce strain on the shoulder joint.
· Range of Motion Exercises: Gradually increasing the range of motion is essential during recovery. Gentle stretching and mobility exercises can help improve flexibility and restore normal shoulder function.
· Technique Improvements: Alongside rehabilitation exercises, focusing on correct swimming stroke technique is crucial to prevent future re-injury. Consulting a qualified swim coach can be highly beneficial in correcting stroke flaws and reducing excessive stress on the shoulder. Many swim coaches like using a Vasa Trainer or SwimErg since they can efficiently guide the swimmer to use proper swim technique and form on land that transfers into swimming in the pool.
4. Gradual Return to Activity: As the shoulder starts to heal, the athlete can slowly reintroduce swimming or other overhead activities into their routine. It is essential to begin with low-intensity, short-duration sessions and gradually increase the duration and intensity to avoid re-injury.
Contact Us Today
Contact us today! If you’re recovering from a swimmer’s shoulder injury or aiming to prevent it in the future, incorporating swimmer’s shoulder exercises into your rehabilitation plan is crucial. Vasa, a trusted provider of high-quality training equipment, offers a range of products specifically designed to aid in injury rehab, sports performance, and fitness training.
With a motto of “Quality Costs Less,” we ensure that our products are durable and dependable and provide a lifetime of reliable service. By training with our innovative equipment, you can empower yourself to become stronger, better, and faster in your chosen sport, fitness journey, or injury rehabilitation.
Recovering from swimmer’s shoulder requires patience, discipline, and a comprehensive rehabilitation plan that includes swimmer’s shoulder exercises. Following the steps outlined above and incorporating our training products into your recovery process, you can expedite your healing journey and get back into the water feeling stronger and better.