Are shoulder injuries caused solely by improper stroke mechanics? Can we avoid all pain using perfect technique? Can we throw away the ice pack forever? Or can shoulder pain be caused by other factors as well? Vote if you have an opinion.
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Former Member
I complete physical therapy tomorrow. My problem was diagnosed as bursitis, and the inflammation was causing some impingement. Since I have been working hard in the weight room, I was sure the problem was from lifting. My Physical Therapist believes the problem was not what I did, but what I didn't do. About 8 years ago, I was told my rotator cuff was not as strong as it should be for a swimmer. For awhile, I was diligent about using sugical tubing for internal and external rotator exercises. Lately, I have not been consistent. My shoulder was unstable and the movement irritated the bursa. 4 or 5 weeks of PT have strengthened the rotator cuff. I was making progress with heavy doses of Motrin, but since I am going to Federal Way, the doctor and and I decided to try a coritsone shot. I believe the inflammation would have eventually gone away with the Motrin, but the cortisone acted more quickly. The combination of reducing the inflammation and strengthening the rotator cuff has solved the problem. Everyday I repeat "I will do my shoulder exercises regularly. I will do my shoulder exercises regularly..."
Some people feel the cortisone was a mistake, but I'm 65 and it's not like I'll do that again anytime soon. The doctor assured me that it was safe. I look forward to a good meet at Federal Way, although I lost some time with conditioning.
Hey Betsy. I am struggling with that too. If I back way off of swimming will the issue cease and then let me build up the RC. Just curiious if you know from your troubles.
I complete physical therapy tomorrow. My problem was diagnosed as bursitis, and the inflammation was causing some impingement. Since I have been working hard in the weight room, I was sure the problem was from lifting. My Physical Therapist believes the problem was not what I did, but what I didn't do. About 8 years ago, I was told my rotator cuff was not as strong as it should be for a swimmer. For awhile, I was diligent about using sugical tubing for internal and external rotator exercises. Lately, I have not been consistent. My shoulder was unstable and the movement irritated the bursa. 4 or 5 weeks of PT have strengthened the rotator cuff. I was making progress with heavy doses of Motrin, but since I am going to Federal Way, the doctor and and I decided to try a coritsone shot. I believe the inflammation would have eventually gone away with the Motrin, but the cortisone acted more quickly. The combination of reducing the inflammation and strengthening the rotator cuff has solved the problem. Everyday I repeat "I will do my shoulder exercises regularly. I will do my shoulder exercises regularly..."
Some people feel the cortisone was a mistake, but I'm 65 and it's not like I'll do that again anytime soon. The doctor assured me that it was safe. I look forward to a good meet at Federal Way, although I lost some time with conditioning.
Hey Betsy. I am struggling with that too. If I back way off of swimming will the issue cease and then let me build up the RC. Just curiious if you know from your troubles.
