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Tennis

Shoulder Conditions and Tennis 

As well as your dominant arm and shoulder being put to work in tennis, your core muscles and legs must also be in good condition if you are to play to your best. There is a wide spectrum of intensity and level of play and this is reflected in the various problems players tend to face at different stages in their lives.  Below is a list of some of the conditions players can suffer with.

Young adults

  • Shoulder instability
  • Superior labral tears (SLAP)
  • Capsular tightness problems causing internal impingement

35-50 year olds

  • Subacromial impingement
  • Rotator cuff tendinopathy
  • Acromioclavicular joint pain
  • Long head of biceps problems

Over 50 year olds

  • Rotator cuff tear
  • Subacromial impingement
  • Acromioclavicular joint problems
  • Shoulder arthritis

Can I prevent shoulder injuries in tennis?

Like many sports, correct technique can help to reduce your incidence of injury. If you find yourself getting injured often, it is definitely worth having someone examine your technique. 

If your play revolves around a ‘season’ you may benefit from a pre-season programme designed to strengthen your core, your shoulders and arms, as well as your endurance.  

Using a racquet that is suitable for you and your swing shape will also help minimise strain in your shoulder and arm.  Your coach should be able to advise you on this.

If you already have a problematic shoulder, and wish to continue playing, then you may wish to wear a shoulder brace or try Kinesiology-taping (K-taping). Commercially available braces and taping can improve joint position awareness. This is proposed to help you control your shoulder and it may help you move better and so avoid pain during play.

More information on the various conditions listed is available under the conditions section of this website. If your shoulder is interfering with your tennis, or if have any specific queries, do get in touch via the contact section or book an appointment.