A rotator cuff injury causes pain and weakness in the joint of the shoulder at the point where the arm bone fits into the shoulder blade. Injuries to the rotator cuff may be the result of inflammation or tearing of the tendons at the joint. Treatment involves rehabilitation and physical therapy; in some situations, you may need to avoid using a swimming pool.
Swimmer's Shoulder
Rotator cuff tendonitis, which occurs as inflammation of the rotator cuff, is frequently the result of overuse. The condition is also referred to as swimmer's shoulder, as some swimmers develop inflammation from repetitive arm movements in the water. Prolonged use may eventually wear the rotator cuff tendon down as it rubs against the joint. Some treatment programs for this condition require adapting the use of the affected shoulder in order to allow time for healing. While this may involve using a swimming pool, you may not be allowed to perform standard arm strokes associated with swimming until the injury has healed.
Surgery
Surgery may be indicated in some situations where the rotator cuff is significantly injured, such as in the case of severe tears. You will need to limit how much you use the affected shoulder following surgery, and your arm may be in a sling. This allows time for the surgical site to heal, which may last several weeks. During this time, certain activities will be prohibited, such as raising your affected arm above your head or lifting heavy objects. Additionally, you may be unable to use a swimming pool, as this may affect the healing process.
Physical Therapy
Therapeutic rehabilitation works to restore function to the shoulder and to increase flexibility and strength while diminishing pain. Some types of rehabilitation exercises for a rotator cuff injury include range of motion exercises and weight lifting with light hand weights. These types of exercises are typically done under the supervision of a physical therapist to develop maximum healing of the site. In some sessions, aquatic therapy may be used, such as in a swimming pool. The water provides resistance that you may use against the arm and shoulder for strengthening exercises.
Considerations
Depending on the type of rotator cuff injury, spending time in a swimming pool during the healing process may be limited. Before swimming or going into the water, check with your doctor to ensure that you will not be delaying the healing process. If your physical therapist allows you to perform water exercises as part of rehabilitation, follow all movements and prescribed routines accordingly to avoid further injury at the site.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Rotator Cuff Tendonitis
- University of Connecticut Health Center: Shoulder Conditions and Treatments
- Middle Tennessee State University; Rotator Cuff Rehab; Brooks Cherry; April 2002
- University of Washington; Rotator Cuff Tear; Frederick A. Matsen III and Winston J. Warme; October 2010
