https://community.usms.org/swimming/f/pool-training-and-technique/32985/new-to-swimming-left-outer-pec-painHello, very new to swimming. Was an avid runner but started swimming a month ago due to a back injury. Swimmings been great for my body. however, with the freestyle stroke I’ve been struggling with some left outer pec / inner shoulder pain when swimmingen-USTelligent Community 12https://community.usms.org/thread/298256?ContentTypeID=1Mon, 11 Aug 2025 11:23:31 GMT3187ac58-ba85-4314-b79a-c45cd885e09a:b7ecc510-0c69-4eff-88c1-8779545a4115ZMHH3<p>Thank so much Jim. It started feeling better. I&rsquo;ve been doing some shoulder activation before my swims and a little PT work. Appreciate the advice.&nbsp;</p><div style="clear:both;"></div>https://community.usms.org/thread/298254?ContentTypeID=1Sun, 10 Aug 2025 16:20:01 GMT3187ac58-ba85-4314-b79a-c45cd885e09a:eb4aa802-6ed6-4042-8402-3222f75e97a8Jim Miller, MD<p>The shoulder joint is a complex structure in part due to the amazing range of motion.&nbsp; While it is a ball and socket joint, the socket is shallow which allows for the range of motion and power production.&nbsp; Pain to the anterior side i.e. pecs is usually produced by placing excessive strain on that part of the joint to produce your stroke.&nbsp; Ideally, the power should originate from your core, transferred to your shoulder via the scapula, which is a sliding joint.&nbsp; Have your coach look at your stroke to make sure that you are leading with your hip and core and not solely from your anterior shoulder to produce the power in your stroke.&nbsp; Alignment of your arm extension and catch can also contribute to your problem.&nbsp; Good luck and &quot;Just keep swimming!&quot;&nbsp; Jim Miller, MD&nbsp; ASCA Level V Masters Coach</p><div style="clear:both;"></div>