Avoid Trampoline Injuries

ROSEMONT, Ill., Aug. 29, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Trampolines can be enjoyable entertainment for children and adults during the summer months. This low impact, rhythmic movement can improve coordination and strengthen the musculoskeletal system by increasing bone mass. However, this fun indoor and outdoor activity may cause serious injuries if proper precautions are not taken.

According to research published in the January 1, 2019 issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, "trampoline and jump parks have been linked to a higher percentage of total fractures among pediatric and adult patients when compared with home trampolines."

In 2018, there were 313,850 trampoline-related injuries treated in emergency departments, doctors' offices and clinics, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

"Many injuries come from multiple people jumping at once," states L. Reid Nichols, MD, FAAOS, pediatric orthopaedic surgeon and spokesperson for the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). "To limit injuries, ensure only one participant on a trampoline at a time. Trampolines are fun, but the injuries can be devastating. Ensure rules are implemented and followed. Check also with your insurance rider before purchasing a home trampoline."

Exercise caution while jumping on a trampoline by following these simple tips from orthopaedic surgeons at the AAOS:

    --  Do not allow children younger than six years of age to use trampolines.
    --  Provide attentive adult supervision, proper safety measures and
        instruction when trampolines are used for physical education,
        competitive gymnastics, diving training and other similar activities.
    --  Ensure that spotters are present when participants are jumping.
        Somersaults or high-risk maneuvers should be avoided without proper
        supervision and instruction; these maneuvers should be attempted only
        with proper use of protective equipment, such as a harness.
    --  Place the trampoline-jumping surface at ground level.
    --  Ensure that supporting bars, strings and surrounding landing surfaces
        have adequate protective padding that is in good condition and
        appropriately placed.
    --  Regularly check equipment for safety conditions; discard worn or damaged
        equipment if replacement parts are unavailable.
    --  Do not rely only on safety net enclosures for injury prevention; most
        injuries occur on the trampoline surface.
    --  Remove trampoline ladders after use to prevent unsupervised access by
        young children.

More information about the AAOS
With more than 39,000 members, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons is the world's largest medical association of musculoskeletal specialists. The AAOS is the trusted leader in advancing musculoskeletal health. It provides the highest quality, most comprehensive education to help orthopaedic surgeons and allied health professionals at every career level to best treat patients in their daily practices. The AAOS is the source for information on bone and joint conditions, treatments and related musculoskeletal health care issues and it leads the health care discussion on advancing quality.

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SOURCE American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons