Shoulder Pain After Swimming or Other Activity? Early Recognition of Injury is Vital

Shoulder pain is a frequent concern in sports medicine, particularly among athletes who engage in repetitive overhead movements. Swimmers, in particular, are especially vulnerable due to the physical demands of swimming strokes such as freestyle and butterfly.

According to Maria Kyriacou, M.D., a primary care sports medicine physician with Baptist Health Orthopedic Care: “Shoulder pain is something we frequently see at clinic, but those that are most susceptible are swimmers. A repetitive movement that's overhead, including freestyle and butterfly techniques, can increase the risk of shoulder injury.”

Maria Kyriacou, M.D., a primary care sports medicine physician at Baptist Health Orthopedic Care.

Repeated overhead motions can place significant strain on the shoulder joint. While the shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in the human body, its flexibility comes at a cost. It is inherently more susceptible to injury, particularly when subjected to continuous stress without adequate preventive measures.

“The shoulder is very mobile joint, but it does come with its vulnerability,” Dr. Kyriacou explains in a recent Baptist Health Instagram reel. “So, that repetitive movement can trigger pain in the front or on the side with some clicking. If you notice any weakness, that means that we're probably dealing with a chronic issue.”

This type of shoulder discomfort—often referred to as “swimmer’s shoulder”—can begin subtly, with occasional pain or stiffness, and gradually progress to more persistent symptoms such as clicking or weakness. When left unaddressed, what starts as a minor irritation can evolve into a chronic condition that may limit performance or even lead to long-term damage.

Recognizing the Signs of Shoulder Injury

Early identification of symptoms is crucial. Pain in the front or side of the shoulder, sensations of clicking or catching during movement, and noticeable weakness are all indicators that should not be ignored. These signs may suggest overuse or a developing injury, particularly if they persist despite rest or modification of activity.

Dr. Kyriacou emphasizes the importance of addressing symptoms promptly: “If you notice any weakness, that means that we're probably dealing with a chronic issue.” In these cases, continuing to train without making adjustments can worsen the condition and prolong recovery.

Prevention Strategies: Warm-Up, Cool-Down, and Rest

To reduce the risk of injury, swimmers and other athletes engaged in overhead sports should incorporate proper warm-up and cool-down routines into their training regimens. Preparing the muscles and joints for activity not only enhances performance but also protects the shoulder from strain.

“For shoulder injury prevention, warming up is key,” says Dr. Kyriacou. “And cooling down will help with this.” Warm-ups might include dynamic stretches or sport-specific drills that increase blood flow and activate the muscles surrounding the shoulder. Cooling down, on the other hand, allows for gradual recovery and can help reduce post-exercise soreness and stiffness.

Equally important is ensuring adequate rest and recovery between sessions. Athletes often push their bodies to the limit, but continuous stress on vulnerable joints like the shoulder can lead to inflammation, tendonitis, or more serious structural issues.

“Make sure that you rest as well as rehab,” Dr. Kyriacou advises. Rehabilitation exercises that strengthen the rotator cuff and improve shoulder stability can be beneficial, even as part of a preventive strategy.

When to Seek Medical Evaluation

Despite best efforts at prevention, there are times when self-management may not be sufficient. If shoulder pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by weakness or decreased range of motion, professional medical evaluation is recommended.

“But if nothing is improving,” cautions Dr. Kyriacou, “make sure that you see your physician.”

A sports medicine physician can assess the extent of the injury, order imaging studies if necessary, and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. This may include physical therapy, temporary activity modification, or in some cases, further medical intervention.