Most common musculoskeletal injuries in swimming

  • Ana Cristina Díaz Cevallos Universidad Metropolitana del Ecuador
  • Mireya Pérez Rodriguez Universidad Metropolitana del Ecuador
Keywords: Injuries, swimming, biomechanics, tendinopathy.

Abstract

Swimming is a physical activity with multiple health benefits, both cardiovascular and muscular. However, like any sport, it is not without risk of injury. Although swimming is usually considered a low-impact exercise, repetition of movements for long periods of time, combined with improper technique and other factors, can cause injuries to different parts of the body. The methodology of a literature review using the PRISMA method, these criteria allow us to determine which studies will be considered for the review based on aspects such as the type of population, interventions, comparators, results, and study design. Then, an exhaustive search is carried out in academic databases such as PubMed, Scopus or Google Scholar, using relevant keywords and terms related to the topic. Shoulder injuries, especially impingement syndrome, are the most common among swimmers and represent a significant challenge for coaches and physical therapists. According to recent studies, up to 56% of swimmers experience shoulder pain, which can seriously affect their performance and overall well-being. The biomechanics of swimming, especially strokes such as the crawl and butterfly, place considerable stress on the rotator cuff, increasing the risk of injury. Shoulder injuries, especially impingement syndrome and rotator cuff tendinopathy, are the most common among swimmers, significantly affecting their performance and quality of life.

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Published
2025-01-22
How to Cite
Díaz Cevallos , A. C., & Pérez Rodriguez, M. (2025). Most common musculoskeletal injuries in swimming. GADE: Scientific Journal, 4(7), 282-290. Retrieved from https://revista.redgade.com/index.php/Gade/article/view/575