About The SwimDoc
Dr. Brian Cunningham is a physical therapist who specializes in helping swimmers understand how their bodies support performance in the water.
Most swimmer injuries are not random. They develop over time when movement patterns can no longer tolerate the demands of training.
Brian’s work focuses on identifying these patterns and helping swimmers build the control and durability needed to train and compete consistently.
This approach sits between rehabilitation and performance training, connecting movement, strength, and stroke mechanics so improvements carry over directly into the water.
Where clinical knowledge meets real-world experience in competitive swimming and athletic performance.
Education
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), 2010
Robert Gordon University Aberdeen, Scotland BS, 1995
Distinctions
2018 Pan Pacific Games, Tokyo, Japan
2017 FINA World Aquatic Championships, Budapest, Hungary
2016 USA Swimming Olympic Training Camp, San Antonio, Texas
2015 World University Games, Gwangju, South Korea
2013 FINA World Aquatic Championships, Barcelona, Spain
Credentials
The SwimDoc Private Practice, Glenview, IL (2010-present)
USA Swimming Medical Staff & High Performance Staff and Sports & Science Medicine Network (2012-present)
Lutheran General Hospital Physical Therapist (2000-2020)
Background in Competitive Swimming
Brian’s interest in swimmer-specific physical therapy began with his own experience as a competitive swimmer growing up in Ireland.
His swimming career was cut short by a shoulder injury that was treated through a traditional insurance-based rehabilitation model. The goal of that treatment was basic daily function, not a return to high-level sport.
That experience shaped the philosophy behind The SwimDoc: athletes deserve care that addresses the real demands of their sport.
Professional Experience
Brian has worked with swimmers at every level of the sport.
His experience includes working with athletes from:
- USA Swimming
- Olympic level competition
- College swim programs – Indiana Swim and Dive
- High School and Club programs
- Masters Swimmers and Triathletes
He currently serves within the USA Swimming High Performance Network and has supported athletes competing at major international competitions.
Working With Coaches
Healthy swimmers train more consistently and perform better.
Brian regularly collaborates with coaches to help identify why athletes break down under load and how to support technique through better body control.
This collaboration does not replace coaching. It supports it.
The goal is to help swimmers develop the physical durability required to handle high training volumes.
For Parents
If you are here as a parent, your swimmer may be dealing with recurring pain, inconsistent performance, or frustration during training.
Most swimmer injuries are not caused by a single event. They develop gradually when the body cannot manage training load effectively.
The SwimDoc approach focuses on education, awareness, and long-term development rather than quick fixes. Parents can expect clear communication and a structured plan that supports training rather than interrupting it.