(2-minute read)
With warmer weather upon us, I am getting more patients asking me what is the best treatment for a swimming injury in Bristol. And I can provide advice and help.
There has been a marked increase in the popularity of open water swimming and wild swimming in recent years. This is really positive for both mind and body, but can also lead to more injuries being sustained.
As an advocate of open water swimming for fitness and mental health purposes myself, as well as a triathlete in competitions, I am extremely mindful of technique when it comes to swimming injuries.
I already have many patients of University age who swim competitively, and who see me at my Westbury Park clinic for osteopathic treatments for swimming injuries in Bristol.
What are the benefits of swimming?
Swimming can be viewed as the perfect sport for many - it is superb for cardio-vascular fitness, has a low impact on the body, and exercises most of the main muscle groups.
Swimming gives gentle resistance and is beneficial for maintaining overall joint health.
Swimming injuries are, therefore, quite rare, but can occur from poor swimming techniques or when over-training for events. I see athletes with swimming injuries in my Bristol clinic, which are sustained while they are increasing the training load for an upcoming event.
What is the most common swimming injury?
The most common swimming injury I treat in Bristol is for shoulder strains and neck injuries. These are often sustained from poor swimming and breathing techniques.
There may also be patients attending my clinic with low back pain from swimming.
It is vital to work on flexibility and core stability when looking to engage with swimming on a regular basis, either for fitness or competitive purposes.
Good flexibility allows for an easier, more fluid stroke when swimming. Having good balance and core stability in the body can help reduce the risk of overstrained joints.
Who is likely to sustain a swimming injury?
I have also treated older patients with swimming injuries from over-extending their necks while swimming, particularly swimming breaststroke with the head out of the water. Being mindful of neck movement when swimming is vital.
Improving technique, stretching the shoulders and upper back before swimming, will help to reduce this injury.
Day-to-day flexibility is a must for swimming, whether at a competitive level or for general fitness.
How do I reduce the likelihood of a swimming injury?
When it comes to preparing the body for ongoing swimming sessions, there are simple steps that can be taken to reduce the likelihood of a swimming injury in Bristol, including:
Yoga & Pilates are beneficial for body flexibility and stability
Do core strength work regularly
Focus on a good swimming technique, maybe take a technique lesson.
Can a swimming injury be managed?
I have written an article on the management of swimming injuries. Visit here to find out more.
My Healthy News section has a free library of blogs with tips and advice. Visit here to find out more.
To make a booking for a consultation at my osteopathic clinic in Henleaze for the treatment of a swimming injury in Bristol, please visit here.