Swimming is a highly shoulder-intensive workout, so much so that swimming with a dislocated shoulder is strongly contraindicated. You won't do much for yourself but damage your shoulder further. However, it's possible to have to swim with a dislocated shoulder in an emergency, such as a boating accident that drops you in the water. In such situations, a side stroke allows you to swim with your good arm while protecting your injured shoulder.
Step 1
Tread water long enough to locate the closest point of safety. This could be a nearby boat, a shallow point or the closest accessible shore.
Step 2
Roll onto one side, so that your injured shoulder is above the water and your good shoulder is under the water.
Step 3
Place the hand of your injured side on your chest, folding it as if you are wearing a shoulder splint. This will shelter your injury while reducing drag from the damaged arm.
Step 4
Reach forward with your good arm and stroke through the water. This is similar to the motion in a breast stroke -- one perpendicular to the surface of the water.
Step 5
Frog-kick with your legs as you move your hand forward for the next stroke. Your head and damaged shoulder should stay above the water throughout the stroke.
Step 6
Repeat the stroke. Keep your eyes on the point of safety to keep yourself oriented and moving in the right direction.
Tips and Warnings
- Relax as much as possible given the circumstances. A relaxed body floats more easily and tires less quickly. This is understandably difficult, but can literally make the difference between life and death.
- You should always wear a life jacket while on a boat. With a dislocated shoulder, a life jacket will allow you to swim to safety using only your legs.
References
- "The Sports Injury Handbook"; Dr. Christer Rolf; 2011
- Enjoy Swimming: How to Swim the Side Stroke
