March 31, 2004

By: Ingrid Kelly
Website: http://www.1st-in-fitness.com

Orthopaedic surgeons recommend trampolines used only in supervised setting

With more than 222,802 injuries related to trampolines treated in doctor offices, clinics emergency rooms and hospitals across the U.S. in the year 2002, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommend that trampolines be used only in a supervised setting.  The vast majority of injuries occurred on home trampolines.

Over 93 percent of injuries occurred in children under 15 years of age, and approximately 11 percent in those under 5 years of age.  Younger children are at a much greater risk for fractures, while older children more often suffer sprains and strains.

Spinal injures, with or without resultant paralysis, were among the most devastating that an individual can sustain.  Injuries to the extremities were seen in 55% of patients whereas head and neck injuries occurred in 37% of patients.  The injuries ranged from colliding with another person on the trampoline, landing improperly while jumping or doing stunts, falling on the trampoline springs or frame and falling or jumping off the trampoline.

“Children should be supervised at all times when using a trampoline,” explained John Sarwark, MD, pediatric orthopaedic surgeon at Children’s Memorial Hospital in Chicago.  “ Children under 6 years of age should never use a full size trampoline.”

To reduce trampoline injuries, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends the following safety tips:

• Trampolines should not be used for unsupervised recreational activity.
• The trampoline jumping surface should be placed at ground level.
• The supporting bars, strings and surrounding landing surfaces should have adequate
• protective padding.
• Only one participant should use a trampoline at any time.
• Spotters should be present when participants are jumping. A surrounding net around the perimeter of the trampoline may help reduce the number of injuries from falls but should not be used as a substitute for adult supervision.
• Somersaults or high-risk maneuvers should be avoided without proper supervision and instruction; these maneuvers should be done only with proper use of protective equipment, such as a harness.
• Use of trampolines for physical education, competitive gymnastics, diving training and other similar activities requires careful adult supervision and proper safety measures.
• Competent adult supervision and instruction is needed for children at all times.
• Do not use the trampoline in improper weather conditions like rain and snow.

Author Notes:

Ingrid Kelly contributes and publishes news editorial to http://www.1st-in-fitness.com.  A source of information and helpful tips on various types of fitness equipment.