04 Oct It’s All Fun and Games Until Someone Gets Hurt: Trampoline Safety
3 min. read
Jumping on trampolines has been a popular and seemingly harmless activity for kids for decades. With the recent introduction of trampoline parks and more and more families owning their own personal trampoline, these devices are only growing in popularity.
However, there are a few major misconceptions about trampolines, one of the many being that trampolines are a healthy way for kids to get out and get more exercise. While it is important for kids to get plenty of activity, trampolines are all fun and games until someone gets hurt—and the chances of someone getting hurt are quite high.
According to a recent report by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the organization advises against recreational trampoline use due to the number of injuries caused by these products. It should come as no surprise that these injuries are much more common in children than adults.
The most common trampoline injuries are sprains, strains, and contusions. Broken bones, concussions, scrapes, cuts and head and neck injuries are also common. According to experts such as those at the AAP, the best way to prevent trampoline accidents is to not use the trampoline for recreational use at all and not to buy a trampoline for the home.
There is no significant evidence to support the ideas that netting around the trampoline reduces injury rates, so parents shouldn’t be lured into thinking those with nets are safer for their children.
There are also other safety precautions parents can take as well.
Adult Supervision
Most trampoline injuries happen even when adults are supervising. While adult supervision doesn’t seem to prevent injuries from happening, adults should still be watching over their children while they are on these trampolines. They can be there to handle any injuries that may occur, advise children on safe practices and make sure that the trampoline and its padding are in good condition.
One Person At a Time
According to the AAP, around 75 percent of trampoline injuries occur when multiple people are jumping on the trampoline at once. When this occurs, typically the smallest person on the mat is most likely to sustain a significant injury. Keep it to one person at a time on the trampoline.
Save Trampolines for Older Kids
Children 5 and younger are most likely to get injured than older children and their injuries tend to be more severe. In fact, according to the AAP, 48% of the injuries that happen to kids in this age group result in fractures or dislocations.
No Tricks on the Trampoline
Attempting flips and somersaults are perhaps the most dangerous activities as they can lead to serious and even permanent spinal injuries. If kids are going to be jumping on a trampoline for fun, it is important that they do not attempt these types of tricks.
If you are taking your child to a trampoline park, it is important to check and make sure they are consistent with AAP guidelines. While kids who are using trampolines for sport should always make sure they have a supervisor present while using these types of trampolines.
While there is no denying that trampolines can be fun for kids, it is important to be aware of these potential problems and keep your child as safe as possible. If you have additional questions about recreational safety for your child, you can schedule an appointment with our office by calling 817-617-8600 or scheduling online at http://continuumtx.com/contact.