Changes in Shoulder and Lumbar Injury Incidence in Swimmers After Physical Examination and Exercise Programs

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Orthopedics
• Physiotherapy

Background:

• Previous injuries and physical examination data were analyzed to understand causes of injury in competitive swimmers.
• Swimmers received individualized exercise programs based on their injury history and physical exam findings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify trends in shoulder and lumbar injuries among swimmers.
• To determine the effectiveness of prescribed exercise programs in reducing injury rates.

Main Methods:

• An observational cohort study involving 31 male swimmers (high school and college).
• Data collected via physical examination and questionnaires on injury history and practice hours over one year.
• Injury rate calculated per 1,000 player hours (ph).

Main Results:

• Injury incidence decreased from the initial examination to the one-year follow-up.
• Shoulder injury rate per 1,000 ph decreased from 0.32 to 0.05.
• Lumbar injury rate per 1,000 ph decreased from 0.16 to 0.03.

Conclusions:

• Exercise programs developed from physical examinations may decrease the incidence of injuries in male swimmers.
• Tailored exercise interventions show promise in reducing swimming-related injuries.