Hello everyone - I am new to this group. I have been swimming freestyle for several years now and really enjoy it. I have worked hard at perfecting my stroke. I know what I should be doing and try hard to put it into practice. I have definitely become a stronger swimmer. I have a condition called "pectus excavatum". It makes my chest look a bit goofy with a depression in the centre and oversised lower ribs (called flared ribs). Some of you may have noticed that Peter van den hoogenband has it. I have read some articles that it can reduce your lung capacity. When swimming freestyle I have to stop for several minutes every 50 metres and was wondering whether this could be caused by my condition. Has anyone had any experience with this?
Regards Johnathon:confused:
Parents
Former Member
I have P.E. and it is a more severe case but has never limited me in any way other than keeping my vanity in check. One thing that I would advise you do is check with your physician about a specific heart risk called Mitral Valve Prolapse that is common in people with P.E. I had heard of this condition in the past but shrugged it off due to my being in fairly good condition. My sister recently talked with a close friend who lost a friend to this condition. Apparently it is treatable but doctors need to look for it specifically. Check the link I posted below, it is very enlightening and I think you will find it most helpful. Please share it with others.
The Arm
www.ctds.info/pectus_excavatum_faq.html
I have P.E. and it is a more severe case but has never limited me in any way other than keeping my vanity in check. One thing that I would advise you do is check with your physician about a specific heart risk called Mitral Valve Prolapse that is common in people with P.E. I had heard of this condition in the past but shrugged it off due to my being in fairly good condition. My sister recently talked with a close friend who lost a friend to this condition. Apparently it is treatable but doctors need to look for it specifically. Check the link I posted below, it is very enlightening and I think you will find it most helpful. Please share it with others.
The Arm
www.ctds.info/pectus_excavatum_faq.html
