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 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:
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:
