Introduction
In Sydney we are blessed with so many beautiful places to swim, and many people use swimming as a form of daily exercise.
In this article, we shed light on swimming injuries, their causes, and how physiotherapy can help you overcome them. Whether you’re an avid swimmer or just getting started, it’s essential to understand the potential risks and take preventive measures. So, let’s dive in!
Shoulder Injuries
Swimming places repetitive strain on the shoulders, making them prone to injuries like rotator cuff tendinitis, shoulder impingement, and bursitis. These conditions occur due to overuse, poor technique, or strength imbalances. Physiotherapy can provide tailored exercises to strengthen the shoulder muscles, improve flexibility, and correct swimming technique, reducing the risk of these injuries.
Knee Pain
Breaststroke and butterfly strokes can exert significant pressure on the knees, resulting in conditions such as patellofemoral pain syndrome or meniscus tears. Weak quadriceps, improper technique, and sudden increase in training intensity can exacerbate the issue. Our physiotherapists can design personalised treatment plans that include strengthening exercises, manual therapy, and advice on modifying swimming techniques to alleviate knee pain.
Lower Back Pain
Freestyle and backstroke demand repetitive motion, which may strain the lower back muscles and overload the joints of the spine. Our experienced physiotherapists can provide hands-on techniques and targeted exercises to improve core stability, correct posture and technique and relieve lower back strain.
Neck Injuries
Incorrect head positioning during swimming, especially in butterfly and freestyle strokes, can strain the neck and lead to headaches, neck pain, and even cervical disc injuries. Our clinic offers many treatments such as manual therapy, neck stabilisation exercises, and postural re-education to address these issues and help you swim pain-free.
Overuse Injuries
Swimming, when not adequately managed, can lead to overuse injuries such as tendonitis, stress fractures, and muscle strains. Optimal training programs, regular rest days, and proper warm-up and cool-down routines are crucial in preventing these injuries. Our knowledgeable physiotherapists can provide expert advice on training schedules, technique modifications, and injury prevention strategies, enabling you to swim safely and enjoyably.
Conclusion
Swimming is a fantastic exercise that benefits the body in numerous ways, but it’s important to be aware of the potential injuries associated with it. By taking preventative measures and seeking guidance from qualified professionals like our physiotherapists at Advanz Health, you can minimise the risk of swimming-related injuries and enjoy your time in the water.
Don’t let swimming injuries hold you back. Contact Advanz Health today to schedule an appointment to ensure you can stay wet this summer!
