In a recent statement, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) issued a warning about the dangers of recreational trampoline use.
Trampoline injuries have been slightly declining over the past several years. In 2008, 32 out of 100,000 children were injured on trampolines, compared to 38 out of 100,000 in 2004. Despite this, there is still much work to be done to ensure kids stay safe on trampolines.
The academy specifically noted that safety nets and other devices do little to prevent trampoline injuries. These safety devices often provide a false sense of security that prompts jumpers to take greater risks and, in doing so, sustain greater injuries.
Most injuries occur on the mat and with multiple people jumping at once. Stick to the following best practices to help prevent trampoline injuries:
- Only allow one jumper on the mat at a time
- Don’t attempt any flips or somersaults
- Always have an adult present to supervise
Dr. Silverman Comments
Some of the worst pediatric injuries I have seen were the result of trampoline injuries. Broken femurs, dislocated and fractures elbows, fractured forearms – just to name a few. Most trampoline injuries are high enough energy to create injury patterns that are unstable and require surgery.
Just because the surface is bouncy doesn’t mean that it will shock absorb everything. Kids regularly fall on even ground and break their arms. Adding the height with the false impression of safety is a recipe for disaster in children who do not always have the best means of assessing risk versus reward.
I prefer the trampolines with safety harnesses that slow the descent of the jumper. Many more tricks can be accomplished safely and the risks are significantly diminished. It is great for understanding body mechanics in a safe environment.
Related Sources:
medpagetoday.com