In Part 1, we discussed enhancing Freestyle Swimming through manual Therapy, specifically arm movements and the associated muscles. In Part 2, we will discuss the role of shoulder blade stabilizers in Freestyle swimming. We will show a demonstration video using MSR procedures to enhance performance and reduce injuries.
Article Index:
The Role of Shoulder Blade Stabilizers
The shoulder blade, or scapula, plays a pivotal role, serving as the anchor from which the arm generates force and moves through the water. The muscles stabilizing the scapula act in concert to facilitate the various phases of the stroke, from entry to recovery. This finely tuned coordination ensures not only powerful propulsion but also the prevention of injury. Dysfunction in these stabilizing muscles can greatly affect the fluidity and efficiency of the stroke. In the following sections, we will explore the individual muscles that contribute to scapula stabilization, namely:
Pectoralis Minor:
Function: Supports the scapula's anterior tilt and downward rotation, contributing to arm positioning during the stroke.
Potential Dysfunction: A dysfunction may lead to improper arm positioning, hindering the efficiency of the stroke's initiation.
Rhomboids:
Function: Promotes the scapula's retraction, aiding in alignment necessary for an effective pull.
Potential Dysfunction: Weakness or imbalance might cause misalignment, reducing the effectiveness of the pulling phase.
Levator Scapula:
Function: Assists in the upward rotation of the scapula, facilitating the arm's recovery phase.
Potential Dysfunction: Impaired function could slow down or misalign the recovery phase, disrupting the overall rhythm and timing of the stroke.
Trapezius Sections:
Function: Specific parts of the trapezius work together with other stabilizers, providing a stable base for the propulsive forces exerted by the arm and hand.
Potential Dysfunction: Dysfunction in these sections may reduce stability, diminishing the force exertion and leading to an unstable and inefficient stroke.
Deltoid Muscles
Function: The deltoid muscles, comprising the anterior, lateral, and posterior fibers, work in unison to facilitate various phases of the arm's movement in freestyle swimming. Specifically, the anterior and lateral deltoids are engaged during the entry and catch phases, aiding in positioning the arm, while the posterior deltoids assist in the concluding phase of propulsion.
Potential Dysfunction: Dysfunction in the deltoid muscles could lead to inadequate force production and alignment during the propulsive and recovery phases. This might manifest as a reduction in stroke power or misalignment that disrupts the fluidity and efficiency of the entire swimming cycle.
Supraspinatus:
Function: The supraspinatus initiates the abduction of the arm during the initial phase of the stroke and contributes to stability in the shoulder joint
Potential Dysfunction: Weakness or injury to the supraspinatus can compromise the efficiency of the initial phase of the stroke and may result in instability in the shoulder joint, affecting overall swimming performance.
Infraspinatus & Teres Minor:
Function: Assists in external rotation of the shoulder, helping to position the arm correctly during the catch and pull phases of the stroke.
Potential Dysfunction: Dysfunction in the infraspinatus can lead to restricted external rotation and subsequent alteration in the mechanics of the arm's movement, possibly reducing propulsion and increasing the risk of injury.
Subscapularis:
Function: This muscle functions in the internal rotation of the shoulder, playing a role in stabilizing the arm during the underwater pull.
Potential Dysfunction: A malfunction in the subscapularis can lead to compromised internal rotation, potentially affecting the pull phase and destabilizing the shoulder joint.
Motion Specific Release (MSR)
MSR Demonstration Video
Dr. Abelson illustrates the utilization of Motion Specific Release (MSR) procedures in this instructional video. These techniques target and correct restrictions or imbalances in the scapulae-stabilizing muscles. Without proper intervention, such imbalances can reduce swimming performance and heighten the probability of injuries. This method showcases the real-world application of MSR, aligning with the principles of biomechanics and functional anatomy within the context of aquatic sports.
Conclusion - Freestyle Swimming Part 2
The shoulder blade stabilizers represent an intricate and essential system within the biomechanics of swimming. Comprising muscles such as the Pectoralis Minor, Rhomboids, Levator Scapula, Trapezius Sections, Deltoid Muscles, Supraspinatus, Infraspinatus, Teres Minor, and Subscapularis, these stabilizers function in harmony to optimize propulsion, rhythm, and alignment in various phases of the stroke. Dysfunction in any of these elements could precipitate inefficiencies and injuries, underscoring the importance of proper awareness, training, and treatment such as MSR (Motion Specific Release).
This holistic understanding of the scapulae-stabilizing muscles can serve as a gateway to enhanced performance and injury prevention, fostering a more effective and resilient approach to freestyle swimming.
BRIAN ABELSON DC. - The Author
Dr. Abelson's approach to musculoskeletal health care reflects a deep commitment to evidence-based practices and continuous learning. In his work at Kinetic Health in Calgary, Alberta, he integrates the latest research with a compassionate understanding of each patient's unique needs. As the Motion Specific Release (MSR) Treatment Systems developer, he views his role as both a practitioner and an educator, dedicated to sharing knowledge and techniques that can benefit the wider healthcare community. His ongoing efforts in teaching and practice aim to contribute positively to the field of musculoskeletal health, with a constant emphasis on patient-centered care and the collective advancement of treatment methods.
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