The impact of swim training loads on shoulder musculoskeletal physical qualities

Yoma Galleguillos, M

Abstract

Competitive swimmers are exposed to high amounts of training loads. With a prevalence reported as high as 91%, shoulder pain is the main cause for missed or modified training in swimmers. The aetiology of injuries in sports is multifactorial including the interaction between multiple risk factors. Within these factors, training loads are considered the major cause of injuries in athletes. Although there is consensus that shoulder pain in swimmers is mainly caused by excessive training loads, there is a lack of research in this area. This might reflect the inefficacy of injury prevention programs and that the prevalence of shoulder pain remains high.
Therefore, this thesis aimed to determine the effects of swim training loads on shoulder physical qualities associated with shoulder pain in swimmers. The results showed that the intensity of a swim-training session is an important factor leading to decreases in shoulder external rotation (ER) range of motion (ROM) and shoulder rotation isometric peak torque. Interestingly, we also found that these changes were more pronounced in swimmers of a lower level of competition. Furthermore, the accumulation of training loads over a week negatively impacted shoulder ER ROM and wellness factors (fatigue, sleep quality, and muscular soreness). These results provide information about the complex interaction between training loads and risk factors for shoulder pain in swimmers.
Clinically, this study might help coaches and practitioners working with swimmers to know which factors and when they need to be monitored. Monitoring can help to understand swimmers’ response to training to adequately prescribe and manage training loads, minimising the risk of injury and maximising performance. Finally, interventions addressing these factors might also help to reduce the risk of injury.

Citation

Yoma Galleguillos, M. The impact of swim training loads on shoulder musculoskeletal physical qualities. (Thesis). University of Salford

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Dec 14, 2021
• Publicly Available Date: Dec 14, 2021
• Award Date: May 24, 2021