Swimming and Back Pain

How swimming causes back pain

• Lower back can remain hyper-extended during front strokes (the crawl or breaststroke) while swimming

• Upper spine (neck) may be jerked backward repetitively during front strokes while taking breaths when swimming

Preventing back pain from swimming

• Use proper form for front strokes while swimming; keep body level in the water (hold lower abdominal muscles up and in) and keep the head straight rather than lifted

• Swim with side or back strokes instead of front strokes

• Roll the body to the side and keep the chin in when taking breaths during the crawl, rather than jerking the head backward, to reduce the amount of movement in the neck while swimming

• Use a snorkel to eliminate the need to move the head for breaths

• Wear goggles to reduce improper head movements when trying to keep water out of the eyes

• Use flotation devices (noodles, boards, life preservers) to maintain proper form when swimming

• Article written By:
• Thomas E. Hyde, DC

July 20, 2000

Print