If there is an open wound on the surface of the knee, you must absolutely avoid entering the water. This is because pool water contains a certain amount of bacteria, which can cause the wound to become inflamed, infected, and so on. If you absolutely must swim, you should only enter the water after the knee has formed a scab.
Swimmers with knee injuries should avoid the breaststroke. The outward rotation and kicking motions involved in breaststroke go against the natural movement of the human knee. Prolonged or intense practice can cause damage, particularly to the collateral ligaments and medial meniscus.
How to Protect Your Knees While Swimming
Water resistance is approximately 12 times greater than air resistance. To counter this force, swimming typically enhances muscle strength, stimulates bone reinforcement, and increases bone density. Water's buoyancy reduces stress on the knee joint, lessening the load.
The primary functions of knee guards are warmth retention and stabilization. The knee area is prone to chilling, and many knee conditions are linked to exposure to cold. While muscles on the thighs generate heat during exercise, the knee lacks this natural heat source. Therefore, specialized tools like knee guards are essential for maintaining warmth.
Within normal movement ranges, the patella (knee cap) can shift slightly. However, during swimming, external forces exert significant pressure on the knee, potentially displacing the patella and leading to related knee conditions. Common Knee Conditions by Developmental Stage 1.Growth Phase (Before Age 18)
During this developmental stage, knee pain often stems from muscles and tendons growing too quickly, outpacing bone development and causing strain. 2. Young Adulthood (Ages 18–30)
Typically, physical function peaks during this period, with few serious injuries under normal circumstances. Knee pain usually results from violent impacts or overexertion.
3. Middle Age (30–50 years old)
Entering middle age, knee joints begin to degenerate. Injuries accumulated from previous overuse gradually manifest during this period, such as ligament strain and chondromalacia patellae. Therefore, starting at age 30, it is crucial to focus on maintaining and protecting knee health.
4. Elderly (50+)
After age 50, following natural physiological patterns, the "lifespan" of patellar cartilage nears its limit. Bone spurs or osteophytes may develop, ultimately leading to arthritis.