Shoulder pain

Richard Šmarda Asked 3 weeks ago

Hi,

thanks for your tips and techniques! I am an old man and I've recently discovered tabletennis as a great hobby. My joints are not as they used to be fifty years ago and after my last match I feel unpleasant pain in my right shoulder (now it's been painful for about three weeks, it's difficult and painful to lift it up). The match was quite intensive and I'm afraid my technique is not very good and that that pain is probably my fault. I realise that when I raise my hand to smash (or make topspin e.g.) my right arm moves behind my back, it stretches too backward. So my question is: may this be the problem? Should I improve my technique and work more with my forearm and don't go too much backward with the whole arm? And secondly: How can I get rid of that pain ASAP? Now I am trying to rest the painful hand. Thank you very much for your answer. Richard

Alois Rosario Answered 3 weeks ago

Hi Richard,

First and foremost, thank you for reaching out and sharing your situation. It's fantastic to hear that you've taken up table tennis as a hobby! It's a wonderful sport for players of all ages, but it's important to address any pain or discomfort that might arise, especially as it can impact your enjoyment and performance in the game.

Regarding your shoulder pain, you might be on to something with your analysis of your technique. Often, pain in the shoulder from table tennis can be attributed to overextending or improper movement during strokes, particularly during aggressive shots like smashes or topspins. If your arm is stretching too far backward, it can place unnecessary stress on your shoulder joint and muscles around it, leading to pain and discomfort.

Here are a few steps you can take to improve your situation:

1. Consult a Professional: I highly recommend seeing a physiotherapist or a sports medicine specialist. They can provide a proper diagnosis and tailored advice. They might also recommend specific exercises to strengthen the muscles around your shoulder and improve flexibility. 

2. Technique Adjustment: When you're ready to return to table tennis, focus on keeping your arm movements more compact during your strokes. Try to avoid letting your arm go too far back. Instead, rotate more with your waist to generate power and spin. This adjustment not only helps in reducing the strain on your shoulder but also can improve the efficiency and accuracy of your strokes. 

3. Warm-up Properly: Before playing, ensure you do a thorough warm-up, focusing on your shoulders, arms, and wrists. Gentle stretching and gradual movements that increase in intensity can help prepare your muscles and joints for the activity. 

4. Gradual Progression: When you feel better and start playing again, gradually increase the intensity and duration of your play. Listen to your body and stop if you feel any discomfort. Your approach to handling this issue by resting and seeking advice is wise. 

Remember, the goal is to enjoy the game without pain. Adjusting your technique and ensuring you're playing in a way that doesn't stress your body will help you keep playing table tennis for many years to come.