I have been swimming almost a year and as I am getting "better" I have been upping my distance and workout frequency.
I have slowly worked my way up to swimming three times a week and the distance is about 1500-2000yds a workout. I mix up intervals and straight swims. Mainly long swims in the summer and intervals in the winter. I think my approach has been rational thus far.
However, my left shoulder has started to bother me. I have made adjustments to my mechanics and as long as I don't let it get out too far from my body I can deal with it. Right now my left arm is really only along for the ride so to speak and I can't really crank on it the way I would like to generate full power.
I have talked with more experienced swimmers who have gone through shoulder issues. I am just working through it and hope it will subside.
What is likely going on in my shoulder? Is it just inflamation? What advice can you give? Should I just work through it at reduced intensity? Any specific workouts in or out of the water to help? I am freestyle only.
Parents
Former Member
Swimmer's shoulder is extremely common among Masters swimmers. As others have pointed out, treating the pain and inflammation is not enough--you have to address the cause or it will be a recurring problem. Personally speaking, I would not have been able to construct my rehab program on my own. A physical therapist with experience in sports medicine is invaluable, in my opinion. I really believe rotator cuff exercises are essential whether or not you've already suffered an injury.
Swimmer's shoulder is extremely common among Masters swimmers. As others have pointed out, treating the pain and inflammation is not enough--you have to address the cause or it will be a recurring problem. Personally speaking, I would not have been able to construct my rehab program on my own. A physical therapist with experience in sports medicine is invaluable, in my opinion. I really believe rotator cuff exercises are essential whether or not you've already suffered an injury.
