More severe injuries sustained at jump parks versus home trampolines

(HealthDay)—The proportion of fractures/dislocations, lower-extremity fractures, fractures in adults, and surgical interventions is higher for injuries associated with jump parks versus home trampolines, according to a study published in the Jan. 1 issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Jesse Doty, M.D., from the University of Tennessee College of Medicine Chattanooga, and colleagues conducted a retrospective review to examine domestic trampoline and commercial jump park injuries during a two-year period.

The researchers noted 439 trampoline injuries: 34 and 66 percent at jump parks and on home trampolines, respectively. Fractures and dislocations accounted for 55 and 44 percent of injuries at jump parks and at home, respectively. In adults, fractures and dislocations accounted for 45 and 17 percent of jump park and home trampoline injuries, respectively. In both adults and children, more lower-extremity injuries were seen at jump parks versus home trampolines. Adults had a 23 and 10 percent surgical rate with jump park versus home trampoline injuries.

"Our data suggest that with the expansion of commercial jump parks, the incidence, severity, and economic effect of trampoline injuries may be underestimated," the authors write. "Jump park participants, legal guardians, and public policymakers should have accessibility to accurate safety profiles."

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