Hopping Hazards: Trampoline Safety Tips from a Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgeon

Whether outside in backyards, at playgrounds, or indoors at air-conditioned jump parks, trampolines can be a staple for childhood summer activity. While a source of joy and exercise for many children, this equipment can also serve as a springboard to significant health risk due to the biomechanical forces they generate.

These forces, when combined with the unique characteristics of developing musculoskeletal systems, can go from spring-to-sprain or worse, leading to injuries like fractures to severe cervical spine trauma, and traumatic brain injuries.

It is crucial for parents and caregivers to be aware of these health risks and implement effective prevention strategies to ensure that children can safely enjoy trampolines.

When children jump on trampolines, they experience significant forces that can lead to a variety of orthopaedic injuries. Unlike adults, the bones of children are still growing and are characterized by increased elasticity and reduced mineral density. This makes them more susceptible to distinct fracture patterns and other injuries.

Injuries can include broken bones in the wrist from trying to stop a fall after being launched, shinbone fractures resulting from buckling leg joints, to more severe conditions like cervical spine trauma. Understanding these biomechanical properties is essential for parents, caregivers, and health professionals to effectively prevent trampoline-related injuries.

Pediatric orthopaedic surgeon and assistant professor of orthopaedics & rehabilitation, Dominick Tuason, MD, recommends a blend of caution and supervision to limit leaping liabilities.

“Trampolining is a fun and popular activity for youth,” Tuason says. “I am a big proponent of any activity that keeps kids moving and healthy. To keep children and adolescents healthy and injury-free on the trampoline, my advice is to ensure that an adult is always supervising when they are participating in this activity. Additionally, having only one child on the trampoline at any given time is paramount, as 75% of injuries that are sustained on trampolines involve two or more children jumping at any given time.”

Implementing safety measures, such as adequate adult supervision and proper equipment maintenance, can help mitigate these risks, ensuring that trampoline play remains a fun and safe activity.

A range of risk factors can contribute to the likelihood of trampoline injuries. Several children using a trampoline simultaneously dramatically increases the risk of collision-induced trauma. Children can also face significant danger from falls, either from losing balance on the trampoline surface or by launching off it entirely.

Acrobatic maneuvers like somersaults and cartwheels can further increase the likelihood of serious injuries due to the axial loading, unstable surface, and rotational forces involved. Additionally, direct impacts with the trampoline’s frame or springs can lead to localized soft tissue damage and bone trauma.

Several evidence-based injury prevention strategies are recommended to address these risks. Adult supervision is paramount. A watchful eye can mitigate hazardous behaviors and intervene promptly in the event of an injury.

Implementing a single-user policy is equally important to minimize collision-related injuries. Properly installed safety nets and padding systems are essential in reducing the incidence of falls and impacts, but they must be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure their effectiveness.

“A comprehensive approach to injury prevention requires both environmental modifications and behavioral interventions,” Tuason says. “Children under six should never be allowed on an outdoor trampoline, and those under 12 years old should always be supervised by a responsible adult. Parents should additionally communicate trampoline safety expectations clearly to their children and intervene when needed.”

Safety guidelines should also be age-appropriate, considering the developmental stage and motor skills of each child. Performing high-risk maneuvers should be strictly prohibited unless supervised by professionals in a controlled environment.

Trampolines should also be placed on a level surface, free from surrounding obstacles, and undergo routine inspections to detect any structural deficiencies.

“If your child sustains an injury on a trampoline, seek medical assistance if he or she is unable to put weight on a lower extremity or if there is severe swelling, pain, and limitation of motion of an upper extremity,” Tuason adds. “Additionally, if he or she sustains a head or neck injury and is complaining of pain or neurologic symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness, immediate medical attention is warranted.”

Understanding the unique biomechanical risks and taking proactive steps is critical for ensuring trampoline safety. Observing careful supervision, regulating the number of jumpers, and maintaining protective equipment can also effectively reduce potential injuries.

Additionally, educating parents and caregivers about safe trampoline practices, and preventing high-risk maneuvers are strategies in navigating the ups and downs of trampoline usage.

“The goal is not to discourage the enjoyment of trampolines but to ensure they are used safely,” Tuason emphasizes. “With informed and proactive strategies along with engaged adult supervision, many injuries can be prevented, making trampoline play a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.”