Hey guys, just found this forum on google and I've already read some really helpful threads. Several years ago I herniated a disc in a car accident. Doctors have been suggesting surgery all along but I've been hoping to avoid it with intensive core workouts and swimming. While I got some relief from yoga and swimming, I've since developed a SLAP tear and since diagnosis haven't gone swimming or done yoga since. The problem is if I'm not active enough then my back gets worse and worse. I was wondering if you had any suggestions in terms of types of swimming that could be helpful, maybe kickboarding? Also, some of you recommended pilates in an older thread. While I've done a bunch of yoga, I've never tried pilates and don't know if it would be too hard on my shoulder.
In terms of swimming, what about my stroke (usually free style) could have injured my shoulder? Not saying it necessarily happened while swimming...
I'd assume you'll need to let your tear heal before you'll be able to do anything other than kick.
I didn't know a SLAP tear can heal by any other means than surgery?
I was recently also diagnosed w/ SLAP lesion (tear), not swimming related. FYI, a SLAP tear cannot heal persay, because it is a tear of the labrum. My research: stop swimming with that arm unless okay by the Dr. Initial treatment is rest, cortizone injections, and anti-inflamatories to reduce inflammation and pain if the tear is non-surgical. Some surgeons will not operate, others will, depends on the tear and the surgeon. Surgery becomes an option when the tear remains symptomatic. If no tendons are involved a simple debridement of the tear (to smooth it down so it doesn't catch) can be done, otherwise the surgery becomes more involved depending on the severity of the tear and if torn tendons are involved. Make sure you and your surgeon are a fit. Ask them for contacts of past pt's who would be willing to talk to you about their experience. Definately let the Dr. know what your long range goals are for work/activity/competition, so that goals and expectations can be realistic. Also if you want to continue to compete make sure the Dr. is aware and is in favor of aggresive sensible rehab post surgery. END results post surgical intervention, from what I have seen and heard, have been good. But rehab is tough, and tenacity pays off! Good luck to both of us! Take care :cheerleader:
I'd assume you'll need to let your tear heal before you'll be able to do anything other than kick. Here's a link with some helpful information on preventing shoulder pain & swimming.
www.usaswimming.org/ViewMiscArticle.aspx
For what it's worth, I had fusion surgery a couple of years ago and it worked great. My back is completely pain free. Take care!
You should see a physical therapist. Surgery to repair a SLAP tear is not always necessary. You should try PT first and give it at least 6 months. Shoulders take a long time to heal. You should DEFINITELY not use a kick board or paddles -- they are horrible for your shoulders. If you want to do kick sets get a FINNIS swimmers snorkel.
My understanding is that the labrum does not "heal" but it can get smoothed out with use and a lot of PT can make the joint relatively stable. After I tore my labrum my shoulder would slip from time to time but hasn't happened in years. Everyone I know who has had SLAP tear shoulder surgery will tell you that it is just brutal and getting back to 100% is not guaranteed. My advice is to give PT lots of time.
I had a SLAP tear repaired with open surgery in 2004. I was able to do normal things and even play a little softball within a few months. It took a lot of PT and a really good doctor.
I lived with the problem since 1986, and swam the second half of my high school years with it, doing PT every couple of months and a lot of strengthening exercises. It progressed to the point where it was uncomfortable all the time and I felt it was geting really weak. I knew it needed to be operated on and pushed for it.
I was able to swim without discomfort after about 6 months, I think, but I only swam once in a while for cardio. The only thing I had a problem with was bench press. Things just felt a little 'off' so I was afraid to load it.
I didn't try to swim 'for real' until about a year ago, and I am currently not having any problems at all with my shoulder.
My tear was also way worse than it looked on the MRI. The labrum rested very neatly against the glenoid, so it only appeared slightly damaged. It was, in fact, separated along the entire front of the joint.
I'd say put off surgery as long as possible, but don't be afraid of it. :2cents:
