Frequent icing and use of anti-inflammatory medications may speed healing. A period of relative rest or activity below the pain threshold should be recommended to allow healing and decrease inflammation. When prescribing relative rest, alternative activities should be suggested to prevent deconditioning. Fitness can be maintained with activities that do not stress the injured area. It is also appropriate to prescribe physical therapy and rehabilitation to guide strengthening and stretching programs.
Treatment focuses on correcting any imbalances in muscle strength and flexibility.
In the patient described above, strengthening the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers helped restore glenohumeral stability and allowed a more rapid return to activity. Discourage Overtraining Swimmer's shoulder is a common problem that can restrict a swimmer's season. Prevention of this overuse syndrome is much easier than treating it midseason. Stretching and controlled warm-ups should be stressed in swimming programs at all levels. Strength training should emphasize external rotator development in the preseason.