Swimmer’s Shoulder
Andreas Leonidou
Orthopaedic Surgeon
56 Kifisias Ave. & Delfon St.,
Marousi, 15125
- Marousi
- Conservative Treatment
- Surgical Treatment
- Cost
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Swimmer’s shoulder is the term used to describe the pain (and other symptoms) experienced by individuals who participate in swimming, either professionally or recreationally. It is the result of continuous and intense repetitive rotation of the shoulder joint. During swimming, athletes rotate both shoulder joints using a greater range of motion than in everyday activities. Intense swimming combined with water resistance contributes to the development of swimmer’s shoulder.
How Can We Injure Our Shoulder?
The shoulder is an extremely mobile joint and, because of this, it must be well supported by the ligaments and muscles surrounding the joint.
Poor technique
Overtraining
Fatigue
Previous shoulder injury
Hypermobility
What Are the Symptoms of “Swimmer’s Shoulder”?
The most common symptoms of swimmer’s shoulder include:
Pain
Reduced range of motion in the shoulder
Feeling of looseness in the joint
Reduced strength
How Is the Condition Diagnosed?
If you experience shoulder pain while swimming (or after exercise), you should consult a specialised upper limb Orthopaedic Surgeon as soon as possible to prevent the problem from worsening.
During the examination, the doctor will identify the exact location of the pain. They will ask whether you have changed anything in your training or daily activities regarding the use of your shoulders. During the clinical examination, the doctor will assess the shoulder tendons and evaluate the strength and stability of the joint. The doctor will perform an ultrasound scan and, if necessary, arrange further imaging tests such as an X-ray or MRI scan.
Why Does Swimmer’s Shoulder Hurt?
In most cases, the underlying pathology is a form of rotator cuff tendinitis, either alone or as part of an impingement syndrome caused by exercise. Occasionally, instability and injury to the labrum of the joint may also coexist.
What Is the Treatment for “Swimmer’s Shoulder”?
Treatment should begin as early as possible and, in the majority of cases, is conservative. Through conservative treatment, we help the shoulder and the injured area recover naturally. It includes:
Shoulder rest
Ice therapy
Use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Physiotherapy and a home exercise programme. The exercises aim to strengthen the shoulder and restore its stability.
Cortisone injection alone or in combination with autologous healing factors – PRP (biological therapies).
Does “Swimmer’s Shoulder” Require Surgery?
Swimmer’s shoulder requires surgical treatment if conservative treatment fails or if there are structural injuries to the tendon or the labrum of the joint. Definitive treatment is achieved with the minimally invasive method of shoulder arthroscopy.
If your goal is to return to swimming as quickly as possible and perform with full strength, function, speed, and flexibility, contact specialised Shoulder Orthopaedic Surgeon Andreas Leonidou for a personalised treatment plan.
Book your appointment for immediate diagnosis, specialist care, and targeted treatment in just one visit.