Swimmer's shoulder or ‘swimmer's shoulder’ is a common problem among swimmers and often manifests itself as rotator cuff conflict syndrome and tendinopathy. The rotator cuff consists of four muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. These muscles - supraspinatus, subspinatus, small round and subscapularis
-are particularly involved in the rotational movements of the arm and the stability of the joint.
This disorder arises from the repetitive movement of the arm above the head, which is typical of arm swings, and can cause inflammation and micro-trauma at the joint and tendon level.
If not treated properly, the condition can worsen to the point of compromising mobility and athletic performance.
It is therefore essential to act in advance with the correct preventive measures and to be able to recognise early signs, such as pain during or after training, in order to intervene immediately with the correct diagnosis and rehabilitation.
immediately with the correct diagnosis and rehabilitation.

Prevention is the first step to avoid serious injuries. In addition to developing a correct swimming technique, which allows better load distribution on muscles, tendons and joints, it is essential to perform targeted preparation exercises to maintain good shoulder mobility and strengthen the stabilising muscles of the scapula and rotator cuff muscles.
scapula and the rotator cuff muscles. In the event of persistent symptoms, a medical examination with an ultrasound scan of the shoulder becomes essential to accurately assess joint mobility, the dynamics of shoulder movements, the integrity of the tendons and the presence of any injuries or inflammation. This diagnostic investigation makes it possible to plan a targeted treatment always under medical guidance and to avoid worsening of the problem.

The main therapy for the swimmer's shoulder is generally guided exercise in a rehabilitation environment, which can be supported by manual techniques and instrumental therapies to manage the early stages of recovery. In more complex cases, interventional ultrasound-guided treatments can be used, especially with anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and promote healing. For an effective and long-term solution, it is important to customise the treatment pathway according to the diagnosis and the specific needs of each sportsman,

Dr. Marco Gastaldo

*Dr Marco Gastaldo is a physician specialising in Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, works at the
medical centre Isokinetic Turin and is an expert in traumatology and sports rehabilitation,
ultrasound and ultrasound-guided interventional procedures.