If you're looking for a way to stay active while recovering from a rotator cuff injury, swimming could be the perfect solution. Not only is it a low-impact exercise, but it also helps improve range of motion and strengthen muscles without putting stress on the injured area. However, not all swimming strokes are created equal when it comes to rotator cuff injuries.
Before diving into the water, it's important to consider which swimming stroke is best for your injury. Some strokes, like freestyle and backstroke, use more shoulder rotation and can aggravate a rotator cuff injury. On the other hand, strokes like breaststroke and butterfly put less stress on the shoulder joint and are better options for those with shoulder injuries. It's also important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your swim sessions to avoid further injury.
Are you tired of sitting on the sidelines while everyone else enjoys swimming? With the right stroke and precautions, you can still hit the pool and stay active while recovering from a rotator cuff injury. But how do you choose the right swimming stroke? What other exercises can complement your swimming routine? Get the answers to these questions and more in our complete guide to swimming with a rotator cuff injury.
10 Best Swimming Stroke For Rotator Cuff Injury
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The product is ideal for supporting and promoting healing from shoulder injuries such as AC sprains, rotator cuff injuries, and moderate separations.
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This product is ideal for supporting and immobilizing the shoulder in cases of torn rotator cuff, tendonitis, or dislocation.
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The product is ideal for providing shoulder stability support, relief from injuries and tendonitis, and has an adjustable fit.
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It is ideal for pain relief and healing of rotator cuff injuries, as well as sports-related injuries in football, baseball, volleyball, basketball, and golf.
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The product is ideal for providing support, stability, and pain relief for those with a torn rotator cuff.
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The product is ideal for providing support, compression, and pain relief to those suffering from shoulder injuries, such as a torn rotator cuff.
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The product is ideal for providing support and pain relief for injuries related to the rotator cuff, AC joint, and arm stability.
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The product is ideal for providing pain relief and support for injuries, especially those related to the shoulder and rotator cuff.
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The product is ideal for providing shoulder pain relief, injury prevention, and assisting recovery in athletes and post-shoulder surgery.
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The product is ideal for immobilizing and supporting shoulder injuries such as rotator cuff, sublexion, surgery, dislocation, or a broken arm.
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1. Men's Ac Sprain & Rotator Cuff Support.
The Shoulder Brace is designed to provide support and stability to the shoulder joint. It is suitable for individuals who have moderate to major ligament sprains, muscle strains, and unstable joints. The brace is anatomically designed for both left and right shoulder use, and it comes with two chest-wrap straps that provide a perfect fit. The Multi-position X-Fit strap retention stabilizer ensures proper positioning for stability control and compression. The soft Lycra binding stretch mesh zone offers a comfortable fit for long-lasting wear, while the N-Tex air-flow vented materials keep moisture out, promote therapeutic warmth and healing.
It is important to note that this product is not a substitute for medical care. Individuals who experience pain, injury or irritation should always seek professional diagnosis and treatment.
- Provides support and stability to the shoulder joint
- Suitable for individuals with moderate to major ligament sprains, muscle strains, and unstable joints
- Anatomically designed for both left and right shoulder use
- Comes with two chest-wrap straps that provide a perfect fit
- Multi-position X-Fit strap retention stabilizer ensures proper positioning for stability control and compression
- Soft Lycra binding stretch mesh zone offers a comfortable fit for long-lasting wear
- N-Tex air-flow vented materials keep moisture out, promote therapeutic warmth and healing
- – May not be suitable for individuals with smaller body frames
2. Copper Shoulder Support Brace For Quick Recovery
The Zenkeyz Copper Shoulder Brace is a top-quality orthopedic support that is made of 88% copper-infused nylon and 12% spandex. Unlike other copper braces that use copper oxide, this brace utilizes genuine copper ions (Cu+ and Cu++) to provide superior healing properties. The compression therapy from the brace improves blood circulation, regulates body heat, and is lightweight, comfortable, and breathable.
This shoulder brace is designed to relieve pain from common injuries such as rotator cuff, dislocated shoulder, AC joint injuries, bursitis, labrum tear, shoulder pain, sprain, soreness, tendinitis, and arthritis. It has a shoulder ice pack pocket (6’’x 6’’) for ice or heat pack (pack not included) and offers the controlled compression necessary for healing. The shoulder brace can be worn over or under clothes to provide support and stability.
It is available in five sizes that are adjustable and comfortable for both left and right shoulders. The shoulder brace fits most body types and shapes, and users can check the fit guide picture to choose the best size for their body. It is important to measure oneself and not base the purchase decision on standard clothes sizes. The shoulder brace needs to be tight to be supportive, and if the dimensions are at the upper limit of the smaller size, it is recommended to try the smaller size first. The fabric has some elasticity to ensure a comfortable fit.
The Zenkeyz shoulder support is not just a shoulder immobilizer and stabilizer brace, it is also a workout shoulder brace and sports shoulder wrap. Users can wear it to prevent re-injury and keep practicing the sports they love. The copper-infused clothing helps improve circulation, reducing the symptoms of arthritis, joint pain, and other inflammatory conditions.
The Zenkeyz ice/hot shoulder sleeve brace is designed to provide pain-free recovery for both women and men. If for any reason the over the shoulder wrap does not work, users can contact the manufacturer for a 100% refund with a money-back guarantee.
- Utilizes genuine copper ions for superior healing properties
- Regulates body heat while remaining comfortable, lightweight, and breathable
- Improves blood circulation to aid in healing
- Adjustable and available in five sizes for a comfortable and secure fit
- Can be worn over or under clothes
- Designed to prevent re-injury and allow users to continue sports activities
- Copper-infused clothing helps reduce symptoms of inflammatory conditions
- – Ice or heat pack is not included
3. Suptrust Shoulder Support Brace – Adjustable And Relief
The SupTrust Shoulder Brace is designed to provide protection and support for the shoulder, AC joint, and upper arm. It is made with high-quality materials that make it extremely comfortable to wear every day. The brace is suitable for both men and women, and can be worn on either the left or right shoulder thanks to its innovated universal design.
Putting on the shoulder brace is now easier than ever before. It comes in a size that would fit most people and can be easily adjusted for desired compression using its hook and loop straps. It also has a pocket for cold or hot packs (not included) that can be used for cold therapy or shoulder ice pack rotator cuff therapy.
This shoulder brace has been designed with the user's comfort in mind. It is made of lightweight and breathable materials that help to keep the user cool and dry. The brace is also adjustable to fit different body types and sizes.
If you're not satisfied with your purchase, the SupTrust team offers 100% happiness guarantee. You can contact their support team and they will resolve any possible issue you may have quickly and professionally.
- Provides protection and support for the shoulder, AC joint, and upper arm
- Made with high-quality materials that are comfortable to wear
- Can be worn on either the left or right shoulder for both men and women
- Adjustable for desired compression using hook and loop straps
- Has a pocket for cold or hot packs (not included) that can be used for therapy
- Made of lightweight and breathable materials that keep the user cool and dry
- Adjustable to fit different body types and sizes
- Comes with 100% happiness guarantee from the SupTrust team
4. Shoulder Relief Ice & Heat Wrap
The Universal shoulder brace can be used for both left or right shoulder to relieve pain and enhance physical therapy in recovery from injury or discomfort. It comes with a removable hot/cold reusable gel pack, one shoulder wrap support, and one compression air pump. The brace is designed to fit chests up to 50 inches in circumference, making it suitable for people of different sizes.
This shoulder brace is perfect for individuals who are recovering from rotator cuff surgery, as well as those who have suffered injuries from sports such as baseball, football, volleyball, basketball, softball, golf, weightlifting, and pickleball. The ThermoActive technology used in NatraCure's medical line of products for professional use has been adapted for consumer use. This means that you can now enjoy the same shoulder ice wrap that professional athletes use in their practices.
The shoulder brace can be used as a hot or cold therapy wrap for pain relief. However, it is important to note that the chilled or microwaved gel pack should not be applied directly to the skin. An interface should be used between the product and the skin to avoid any discomfort or injury.
- Can be used for both left or right shoulder
- Comes with a removable hot/cold reusable gel pack, one shoulder wrap support, and one compression air pump
- Suitable for people of different sizes
- Perfect for individuals who are recovering from rotator cuff surgery, as well as those who have suffered injuries from sports
- Adapted ThermoActive technology of NatraCure's medical line of products for consumer use
- Can be used as a hot or cold therapy wrap for pain relief
- – May not fit individuals with chests larger than 50 inches in circumference
5. Rotator Cuff Shoulder Brace – Support & Relief
The Fightech Shoulder Brace is an excellent product that provides medium to strong support for the shoulder. It is designed to help speed up the recovery process of the shoulder and protect it from further injury. The brace works by providing constant soothing pressure to the shoulder, which also serves as a reminder to not overextend or use the injured shoulder. This Adjustable Shoulder Compression Sleeve is perfect for people suffering from frozen shoulder, rotator cuff tear, bursitis, labrum tear, tendonitis, stiff joints, broken humerus bone, post-op SLAP surgery, and more. It can be used as a separated shoulder brace, shoulder dislocation brace, or rotator cuff brace.
The Fightech Shoulder Wrap is designed to stabilize the shoulder and put subtle pressure in the right spot, lessening the shooting pain. It is ideal for active users but can also be used to stabilize the movement while sleeping, as a reminder to not lift or carry heavy items with that arm, and to ice your shoulder when in pain. The universal design allows it to be worn on either the right or left shoulder. It is highly adjustable and comes in four sizes that fit most body types and shapes. For better effect, the brace can be combined with a shoulder sling (rotator cuff sling).
The upgraded model of the stabilizing brace comes with a pocket for cold or hot packs (not included). The pocket can be adjusted for desired compression using its hook and loop straps. The internal pocket can be used for shoulder ice pack rotator cuff cold therapy.
- Provides medium to strong support for the shoulder
- Speeds up the recovery process of the shoulder
- Protects the shoulder from further injury
- Can be used for a variety of shoulder injuries
- Universal design allows it to be worn on either the right or left shoulder
- Highly adjustable and comes in four sizes that fit most body types and shapes
- Upgraded model comes with a pocket for cold or hot packs (not included)
- The internal pocket can be used for shoulder ice pack rotator cuff cold therapy
6. Shoulder Support With Icy Gel Relief
The Shoulder Brace Ice Pack is an effective solution for those suffering from a range of shoulder injuries, including sprains, strains, rotator cuff tears, frozen shoulder, AC joint dislocation, AC separation, bursitis, labral tears, shoulder muscle soreness, tendonitis, joint stiffness, shoulder dislocation, arthritis, biceps tear, shoulder fracture, and shoulder replacement surgery. It's a great helper for athletes, workers, white-collar workers, or the elderly to get instant cold compress therapy.
Made from soft, stretchable medical-grade neoprene, this shoulder brace ice wrap is suitable for both men and women. It comes with a removable gel ice pack (8.4"x5.7") and an extender strap that can extend from 29.5" to 45.5" in chest circumference, making it fully adjustable to fit a wide range of body sizes and shapes. The shoulder brace ice pack wrap also adapts to either shoulder for added convenience.
This shoulder brace ice pack supports hot and cold therapy, making it versatile for different needs. For cold therapy, simply freeze the ice pack in the refrigerator (-13°F) for at least 1 hour. It can be used for 20-30 minutes, and the ice pack remains flexible and comfortable during use, helping to relieve pain, swelling, and other discomforts. For heat therapy, put the ice pack in the microwave (mid-range) for 15-20 seconds, keep it hot for 20-30 minutes, and help relieve shoulder arthritis.
Designed for comfort, this shoulder brace ice pack can be used on either the left or right shoulder as needed. Its slim design allows it to be worn discreetly under regular-fitting clothing, or over undershirts and t-shirts if desired. It's easy to put on and take off, and the fully flexible hot/cold gel pack is shaped to fit the shoulder without interfering with normal arm movement. You can always move the fasteners on the outer compression pads and easily adjust the compression position for optimal relief.
The KKOOMI Guarantee offers a 30-day money-back guarantee to ensure complete satisfaction with the product. If any issues arise during use, their customer service team is always available to assist.
- Suitable for a wide range of shoulder injuries
- Fully adjustable to fit a variety of body sizes and shapes
- Supports hot and cold therapy for different needs
- Designed for comfort and easy movement
- Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee
- – May not fit all body types comfortably
7. Copper Shoulder Brace: Immobilize & Support Injuries
The Copper Compression Shoulder Support Strap is designed to provide lasting relief and maximum performance to people suffering from different types of pain. The product is infused with copper directly into the fibers of the fabric, which ensures that it never washes away and delivers maximum hygienic benefits. The shoulder support strap is perfect for people suffering from sprains, strains, torn rotator cuff, frozen shoulder, dislocated AC joint, AC separation, bursitis, labrum tear, shoulder muscle soreness, tendonitis, stiff joints, and more! It is designed to provide all-day comfort and support, and it can be worn every day to help you get the support you need. The high-quality fabric of the back support braces is also durable and can withstand washing without losing its function over time.
The ultra-comfortable copper-infused fabric of the shoulder support strap helps you retain your range of motion, which is crucial for allowing your muscles to continue to work and strengthen. The product is designed to protect and support your shoulder, AC joint, and upper arm while still allowing you to retain your range of motion. This makes it ideal for people who want to continue their daily activities without being hindered by pain or discomfort. The Copper Compression Shoulder Support Strap is designed to provide the strength to heal while helping you achieve your personal best.
The manufacturer is so confident in the quality of their product that they offer a 100% happiness guarantee. If for any reason you do not absolutely love the Copper Compression Shoulder Support Strap, they will refund you the full price, no questions asked.
- Infused with copper directly into the fibers of the fabric for maximum hygienic benefits
- Provides all-day comfort and support
- Retains range of motion while protecting and supporting shoulder, AC joint, and upper arm
- Designed to provide lasting relief and maximum performance
- Ideal for people suffering from different types of pain
- Durable and can withstand washing without losing function over time
- Comes with a 100% happiness guarantee
8. Arctic Flex Shoulder Ice Pack – Recovery Relief.
The Pain-Relieving Shoulder Support by Vive is a versatile shoulder wrap that stabilizes and supports the shoulder. It is designed to provide pain-relieving compression and targeted hot or cold therapy. Whether you are recovering from a sprain, strain or surgery, this shoulder brace is an excellent choice. It also helps to soothe common aches and pains.
The cold shoulder brace includes a large and uniquely shaped Arctic Flex gel pack that remains flexible when frozen to comfortably contour to the shoulder for soothing relief. You can use the durable, leak-proof pack for both hot or cold therapy to reduce stiffness, increase circulation and improve mobility. The nontoxic gel makes it safe for heat therapy as well.
Constructed with a latex-free neoprene blend, the cold shoulder brace is fully adjustable for a customizable fit. The machine washable brace includes two extender straps, allowing a maximum shoulder strap length of 57 inches. The brace is also lined with a soft, nonslip material to eliminate sliding and irritation. You can easily adjust the level of compression by moving the fastener tabs on the exterior compression pad for optimal relief.
Suitable for both men and women, the cold shoulder brace is reversible for use on the left or right shoulder as needed. The slim design can be worn under regular fit clothing for a discreet look or worn over undershirts and tees if desired.
The Vive Pain-Relieving Shoulder Support comes with a 60-day guarantee so you can purchase now with confidence.
- Provides pain-relieving compression and targeted hot or cold therapy
- Suitable for both men and women
- Fully adjustable for a customizable fit
- Reversible for use on the left or right shoulder as needed
- Slim design can be worn under regular fit clothing
- – May not fit all shoulder sizes
9. Pro Shoulder Pillow – Ultimate Shoulder Support
The Shoulder Brace is a product designed by a physical therapist to aid in the rehabilitation process following shoulder surgery and for injury recovery. It is also useful for relieving shoulder pain, rotator cuff therapy, arthritis relief and for overhead athletes. This patented device elevates and decompresses the shoulder joint, counteracting gravity to help decrease shoulder pain and soreness. The shoulder support pillow positions the arm away from the body, allowing greater blood flow to the rotator cuff muscles to help speed shoulder injury recovery. This comfortable shoulder rest can be worn while sleeping, working on the computer, driving, and during daily activities. It cradles the shoulder joint in a healthy position, providing relief from shoulder pain. The shoulder pillow is simple to use, just slide it over your wrist and position it in your underarm/axilla to help relieve shoulder pain. It is ideal for overhead athletes, such as baseball, softball, tennis, football, volleyball, and swimmers, as it promotes rotator cuff recovery after shoulder fatigue for increased athletic performance. The product comes in two sizes: Large/Extra Large, which fits 17.5-inch circumference and up, and a smaller size.
- Patented design that effectively elevates and decompresses the shoulder joint, counteracting gravity to help decrease shoulder pain and soreness
- Ideal for athletes who play baseball, softball, tennis, football, volleyball, and for swimmers
- Can be used during daily activities, such as sleeping, working on the computer, and driving
- Promotes rotator cuff recovery after shoulder fatigue for increased athletic performance
- Comfortable and easy to wear
- Comes in two sizes for a better fit
- Useful for shoulder rehabilitation, injury recovery, shoulder pain relief, rotator cuff therapy, and arthritis relief
10. Shoulder Immobilizer Brace Kit – Vive
The Vive Shoulder Immobilizer Sling provides comfortable support for the arm and shoulder while immobilizing it following surgery or injury, including shoulder dislocations, subluxations, and rotator cuff repair. The fully adjustable shoulder sling includes two additional straps and integrated thumb loops to further secure the arm in an abducted position to promote healing while reducing hand fatigue. Additionally, the sling contains two interior pockets to conveniently carry electronic devices, ID cards and cash.
The removable dense foam cushion of the sling provides 15 degrees of abduction for optimal support. The abduction pillow is contoured to fit the body for all-day comfort. The waist strap is adjustable to accommodate waist sizes up to 45”. A foam exercise ball is also attached to the abduction pillow to help stimulate blood circulation through the arm and shoulder, promoting faster recovery times.
The versatile sling can be used with or without the abduction pillow on either the left or right arm. The cushioned shoulder strap and waist belt are fully adjustable for a customized fit and optimal positioning. The waist strap is adjustable to accommodate waist sizes up to 45”. Padded with comfortable, soft foam, the shoulder strap adjusts to accommodate individuals 5”2” and taller.
Constructed with a breathable, non-stretch mesh material, the shoulder sling retains the perfect level of comfort and support for extensive wearability. The contoured pillow cover is also removable for cleaning. The Vive Shoulder Immobilizer Sling comes with a 60-day guarantee so you can purchase now with confidence.
- Fully adjustable shoulder sling with additional straps and integrated thumb loops for a secure fit
- Two interior pockets for carrying electronic devices, ID cards, and cash
- Removable dense foam cushion provides 15 degrees of abduction for optimal support
- Versatile fit waist and shoulder straps that can be used on either the left or right arm
- Breathable, non-stretch mesh material for extended wearability
- Contoured pillow cover is removable for cleaning
- Comes with a 60-day guarantee
- – May not fit individuals with waist sizes greater than 45”
Best Swimming Stroke For Rotator Cuff Injury FAQs
Are there any specific exercises or drills that can help strengthen the rotator cuff for swimming?
Yes, there are specific exercises that can help strengthen the rotator cuff for swimming. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint and help to stabilize and rotate the arm. Swimming requires a lot of shoulder rotation and movement, which can put strain on the rotator cuff muscles. Therefore, it is important to strengthen these muscles to prevent injury and improve performance.
Some exercises that can help strengthen the rotator cuff for swimming include external rotations, internal rotations, scapular squeezes, and prone Y's. External rotations involve holding a resistance band or light weight in one hand and rotating the arm outward. Internal rotations involve rotating the arm inward. Scapular squeezes involve squeezing the shoulder blades together. Prone Y's involve lying face down on a bench or stability ball and lifting the arms up into a Y position.
It is important to start with light weights or resistance bands and gradually increase the weight as you get stronger. It is also important to focus on proper form and technique to avoid injury. These exercises can be incorporated into a regular strength training routine or done as a warm-up before swimming.
Can certain swimming strokes exacerbate rotator cuff injuries?
Yes, certain swimming strokes can exacerbate rotator cuff injuries. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, and it is responsible for stabilizing the shoulder and enabling movement. Swimming is often recommended as a low-impact exercise for people with shoulder injuries, but certain strokes can place a lot of stress on the rotator cuff. For example, freestyle and butterfly strokes require a lot of overhead arm movement, which can strain the rotator cuff muscles and tendons. Backstroke is generally considered to be a safer option because it involves less overhead movement. However, if you have a rotator cuff injury, it's important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting a swimming program. They can help you determine which strokes are safe for you and recommend exercises to help you strengthen your shoulder muscles and prevent future injuries.
How can swimming strokes be modified to prevent further rotator cuff damage?
Swimming is a great form of exercise that can help you stay fit and healthy. However, if you have a rotator cuff injury, it's important to modify your swimming strokes to prevent further damage. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, and it's prone to injury due to the repetitive overhead motions that are involved in swimming.
To prevent further rotator cuff damage, you should focus on modifying your swimming strokes. For example, you can try using a breaststroke or a sidestroke instead of a freestyle stroke. These strokes are less likely to cause shoulder strain and can be a good alternative for those with rotator cuff injuries.
You can also try reducing the frequency and intensity of your swimming sessions. This will give your shoulder muscles and tendons time to recover and heal. Additionally, it's important to warm up properly before swimming and to avoid overexerting yourself during your workouts.
In conclusion, modifying your swimming strokes, reducing the frequency and intensity of your workouts, and warming up properly can help prevent further rotator cuff damage. Remember to always listen to your body and consult with a medical professional if you have any concerns.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when swimming with a rotator cuff injury?
Swimming is a low-impact exercise that can be beneficial for individuals with rotator cuff injuries. However, there are some common mistakes that people make when swimming with this type of injury. Firstly, it is important to avoid overworking the injured shoulder. This means avoiding strokes or movements that cause pain or discomfort, such as freestyle or butterfly. Instead, opt for less strenuous strokes such as breaststroke or backstroke.
Another mistake to avoid is neglecting to warm up before swimming. Warming up helps to prepare the muscles and joints for exercise, reducing the risk of injury. It is also important to avoid swimming for too long or too frequently, as this can lead to further strain on the rotator cuff.
Additionally, it is essential to avoid using swimming aids that place pressure on the shoulders, such as hand paddles or pull buoys. These can exacerbate the injury and delay the healing process.
Lastly, it is critical to listen to your body and take breaks when needed. Ignoring pain or discomfort can lead to further injury and prolong the recovery process. By avoiding these common mistakes, individuals with rotator cuff injuries can safely and effectively incorporate swimming into their rehabilitation routine.
What are the best swimming strokes for individuals with rotator cuff injuries?
Individuals with rotator cuff injuries can still enjoy swimming as a low-impact exercise option. However, it is important to choose the right swimming strokes to avoid exacerbating the injury. The best swimming strokes for individuals with rotator cuff injuries are those that do not put excessive strain on the shoulder joint.
The first stroke to consider is the backstroke, as it allows the shoulders to move in a more natural way. This stroke also puts less strain on the rotator cuff muscles, making it an excellent option for individuals with injuries. Another good option is the breaststroke, as it involves a slower arm movement and puts less pressure on the shoulders.
On the other hand, the freestyle or front crawl stroke can be more challenging for individuals with rotator cuff injuries. This is because the repetitive overhead motion can place excessive strain on the shoulder joint. Similarly, the butterfly stroke should be avoided as it places the most strain on the shoulders.
It is important to remember that every individual's injury is unique, so it is best to consult with a medical professional to determine the best swimming routine for their specific situation.