Swimming and back pain

By: Thomas E. Hyde, DC

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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

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