Before we begin, I’d like to introduce myself. My name is Corinne Allmark, and I swam competitively from age 7 to 20, representing Club, Squad, and Lancashire County. I also competed nationally in breaststroke, butterfly, and individual medley events. Toward the end of my swimming career, I began coaching — and thanks to my experience, I quickly found myself mentoring young swimmers on their way to national and international competitions.
Now, as a physiotherapist, my swimming background gives me a unique advantage when working with swimmers. I understand the physical demands of the sport and how physiotherapy for shoulder pain in swimmers can dramatically improve technique, prevent injury, and support recovery.
Why Shoulder Pain Is Common in Swimmers
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint, stabilized by four rotator cuff muscles. These muscles work together to keep the shoulder centered and rotating smoothly. If any of them are injured or weak, shoulder efficiency drops — and so does your power in the water.
Supporting muscles around the neck, back, and ribs also play a key role. They stabilize the shoulder blade, which is the foundation for shoulder strength. If your shoulder blades stick out or “wing,” it may be a sign that these muscles need strengthening.
Coordination and Muscle Timing Matter
To swim efficiently, your shoulder, shoulder blade, and spine must move in sync. When this coordination breaks down — often due to overactive upper traps or lats — your stroke becomes less effective and more injury-prone. Physiotherapy for shoulder pain in swimmers focuses on restoring this balance and retraining muscle timing.
Flexibility Is Key to Injury Prevention
Swimming requires a wide range of motion, especially in the shoulders, spine, and hips. Movements like butterfly arms or breaststroke kicks aren’t part of our daily routine, so regular stretching is essential. A good warm-up and cool-down routine helps prepare your body and reduce the risk of strain.
Core Strength and Body Awareness in the Water
Even though water supports your body, core control and proprioception are vital. Being aware of how you move through the water — and having the strength to control it — can dramatically improve your technique and reduce injury risk.
4 Common Technique Errors That Stress the Shoulder
- Over-rotation or thumb-first entry narrows the shoulder space and can pinch tendons.
- Crossing the center line overstretches the back and compresses the shoulder and neck.
- Reaching too deep increases joint pressure and reduces stroke efficiency.
- Pulling with a straight arm adds unnecessary load and stress to the shoulder.
These errors are common, but correctable. Awareness is key. Try filming yourself or asking a friend to observe your stroke — it’s easier to fix what you can see.
How Physiotherapy Can Help Swimmers
If you’re experiencing shoulder pain or want to prevent it, a physiotherapy assessment can help. We’ll evaluate your range of motion, control, and movement patterns. Based on your results, we’ll create a personalized plan to improve performance and reduce injury risk.
If you’re already dealing with an injury, a combination of hands-on treatment and targeted exercises can support your recovery and get you back in the pool faster.
Land-Based Training for Swimmers
Resistance and core exercises on land can enhance your strength, stability, and stroke mechanics. Foam rolling and regular stretching also help reduce muscle tension and improve recovery.
Ready to Swim Stronger?
Whether you’re managing an injury or want to optimize your technique, physiotherapy for shoulder pain in swimmers can help. Book an assessment now — your shoulders will thank you.