Swimmer’s Shoulder Physiotherapy in Frankston
Shoulder pain can make swimming uncomfortable during the pull, recovery or after training. “Swimmer’s shoulder” is an umbrella term rather than one diagnosis, so the first step is understanding your symptoms, training load and movement. You may also notice pain when reaching overhead, sleeping on the shoulder or doing gym work.
WHAT MAY CONTRIBUTE TO SWIMMING-RELATED SHOULDER PAIN
Symptoms may be influenced by a recent change in distance, intensity or stroke volume; shoulder strength and endurance; fatigue; shoulder or upper-back mobility; the way the neck, shoulder blade and arm work together; and the demands of your preferred stroke. These factors differ from person to person and should be assessed rather than assumed.
YOUR ONE-TO-ONE ASSESSMENT
Ash will ask about your training history, strokes, weekly distance, recent changes and when symptoms appear. Assessment may include your neck, upper back, shoulder blade, shoulder movement, strength and endurance. This is clinic-based physiotherapy rather than in-water stroke coaching. With your permission, Ash can coordinate rehabilitation goals with your swimming coach.
TREATMENT AND RETURN TO SWIMMING
Your plan may include education, temporary training-load changes, hands-on physiotherapy when appropriate, mobility work, shoulder and shoulder-blade strength, endurance exercises and a graded return to pool training. The aim is not simply to rest until pain settles, but to build a practical plan for the swimming and training that matter to you.
A graded return may adjust session frequency, distance, intensity, stroke selection and paddles or other equipment. Progress is based on your response rather than a fixed timetable.
WHY SEE ASH
Every appointment is one-to-one with Ash Samarakoon, who holds a Master of Physiotherapy from La Trobe University. Ash has a particular interest in swimming-related shoulder problems, triathlon movement, running mechanics and cycling mechanics. Initial and follow-up appointments are $105.
WHEN TO SEEK URGENT MEDICAL CARE
Seek urgent medical assessment after a major injury or dislocation, or if shoulder pain is accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden marked weakness, severe swelling, fever, unexplained illness or rapidly worsening symptoms.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need to stop swimming completely?
Not always. The safest change depends on your symptoms and assessment. Some swimmers can continue with adjusted distance, intensity, stroke or equipment while rehabilitation begins.
Do I need a scan before booking?
Usually not. Ash can assess you first and discuss whether imaging or medical review is appropriate. Bring any existing reports or scans if you have them.
Can you assess my swimming stroke?
Ash assesses the physical and training factors related to your shoulder in the clinic. He does not provide in-water stroke coaching, but can work alongside your coach when useful.
How long will recovery take?
Recovery varies with the condition, training demands, symptom duration and how your shoulder responds to load. You will receive a plan based on your assessment rather than a generic deadline.
Do I need a GP referral?
Private patients do not need a GP referral. My Therapist Group does not accept TAC, WorkCover or NDIS clients.
BOOK A SWIMMER’S SHOULDER APPOINTMENT
View live availability and book a $105 one-to-one physiotherapy appointment with Ash in Frankston, or call 0401 825 644.