Pros and Cons of Aquatic Therapy

    Swimming is an excellent form of physical therapy, especially for people recovering from injuries or managing conditions such as arthritis, chronic pain, or limited mobility. In water, the buoyancy (浮力) reduces stress on joints and bones, allowing for a safer, low-impact exercise that can improve flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular fitness. Moreover, the natural resistance of the water provides a means of strengthening muscles without the need for heavy weights, making it particularly beneficial during rehabilitation.

    However, while the benefits are significant, there are also certain risks and limitations to consider. For instance, water therapy might not be suitable for those with open wounds, certain skin conditions, or infections, as pools or natural bodies of water can sometimes expose individuals to harmful bacteria. Additionally, because buoyancy reduces the load on bones, relying solely on aquatic exercise may not provide enough weight-bearing stress, which is necessary for maintaining bone density. Safety concerns such as drowning (淹死), slipping on wet surfaces, or overexertion (用力過度) should be taken into account, particularly for individuals who are not strong swimmers or who lack proper supervision.

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