Health Tip: Avoid Swimming Injury
August 11, 2009, 2:18 PM ET
• 1 min read
Aug. 12 -- (HealthDay News) -- Swimming is terrific exercise and a great source of summer fun, but it's not without its risks.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these recommendations to prevent swimming injuries:
Before jumping or diving in the water, warm up with some stretches, walking, running, biking or even some jumping jacks for a few minutes.To prevent repetitive motion injuries of the shoulder, start an exercise program designed to strengthen shoulder and upper back muscles.Take swimming lessons. And never swim alone.Avoid swimming when you're overheated, too cold or just too tired.Don't swim strenuously if you're sick with a fever, an upper respiratory infection or an ear infection.If diving, make sure the water is safe and deep enough.Carefully clean and dry ears after swimming to prevent swimmer's ear infection.