Shoulder Impingement/Swimmer’s Shoulder

What is a Swimmer's Shoulder?

Swimmer’s shoulder is sometimes called shoulder impingement, subacromial impingement or painful arc. This painful condition involves tendons which become inflamed and swollen, pressing on nearby structures. Inflammation usually affects the tendons of the rotator cuff, reducing mobility. These tendons can create pressure on the top part of the shoulder blade bone and the acromion, and can lead to the development of bone spurs. 

 

Causes of swimmer’s shoulder:

 

  • Repeated strain in the shoulder joint irritates tendon and muscle tissue, developing to tiny tears which lead to inflammation and scar tissue. This damage prevents the joint from moving smoothly. 

What does Swimmer’s Shoulder feel like?

Symptoms of Swimmer’s Shoulder:

  • Muscle weakness or fatigue 
  • Reduced range of motion 
  • Shoulder instability 
  • Shoulder pain

How can Swimmer’s Shoulder be managed?

Treatments for swimmer’s shoulder:

  • Rest 
  • Ice/heat 
  • Ergonomic adjustments 
  • Physical therapy 
  • Massage therapy

 

Prevention of swimmer’s shoulder:

  • Avoid repeated stress on the shoulder 
  • Practising proper body mechanics 
  • Avoiding overusing the shoulder and resting it 
  • Stretching and warming up before swimming or other sports.