“How to beat aches and pains if you’re a swimmer”
Benefits include: Increased muscle strength, improved oxygen uptake, improved flexibility, reduction in body fat, improved agility, and reduced risk of injury.
Unfortunately, even in an ideal world, bad things can happen and sometimes swimmers come face to face with PAIN!
The most common problems are shoulder disorders. Because the shoulder is pout through a full range of motion and is subjected to stress, the chance of developing a shoulder problem at some point in time is just about 100%. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and associated tendons that insert on the top of the humerus (upper arm bone). Sitting on top of the humerus is a part of the shoulder blade called the acromion. So with every stroke, the rotator cuff is moved between the humerus and the acromion. What occurs with repetitive motion is a gradual wear and tear which leads to inflammation of the tendons... and this is what causes pain.
Rotator cuff problems are best treated prophylactically by stretching exercises both before and after you swim. Should you develop rotator cuff syndrome, you’ll need to see a physical therapist. Sometimes anti-inflammatory medicines and steroid injections may be necessary. In severe chronic and serious situations, surgery is needed.
Neck pain can also develop as a result of the repetitive motion of the head with different types of strokes. Again, expectant stretching both before and after you swim will help this from ruining your workout.
Low back pain can result from using a dolphin kick. If you are prone to develop back problems, it’s best to avoid this. Even the flutter kick can, if done improperly, or without proper stretching, can lead to low back problems.
The best thing to do if you have aches and pains after you swim is to ice the affected area down, rest, and use over the counter anti-inflammatory medicines. If the pain doesn’t get better within 2-3 days, you should see a physician. If this is a chronic, recurring problem, you may have an arthritic problem. You should make an appointment to see a rheumatologist.
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